Process
Summary
The Maintenance Welder Competency microcredential is designed to be a flexible process that can be implemented from as little as few weeks to progressively implemented over many months, depending on the circumstances involved. The diagram on the right shows the steps in the process
The key steps in the process are
Enrolment
Provisional Tests (for Level 3 only)
Theory Training
Competency Coupon
Testing of the Coupon
Issue of Mining Welder Competency Level
The process steps are explained in more detail below.
Example of a completed Level 3 Competency Coupon
MWC Microcredential Delivery Flow Diagram
Enrolment Click to learn more
To enrol Welders in the Maintenance Welder Competency, simply create a user profile for the MWC Portal, and then "Add Welders" using the MWC Portal.
Follow the instructions for enrolment
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Provisional Tests Click to learn more
"Provisional" status acts as an interim competency until a Welder completes the full competency assessment program, and means the Welder can work on mine sites while working towards completing the full assessment.
If Level 1 or Level 2 is nominated, there are no provisional tests required. The Welder automatically is granted Provisional competency.
If Level 3 is nominated, the Welder must prove their ability to do a satisfactory open root butt weld in the overhead position, using GMAW. It is necessary to complete the GMAW provisional test before the welder can be formally enrolled in the Level 3 pathway.
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Theory Training Click to learn more
All Welders must complete the necessary Theory Training component prior to attempting the full competency practical assessment.
The Theory Training can be provided via self-paced eLearning or delivered as Face-to-Face training.
The theory training is not difficult or super technical - it is designed for Welders so that they can apply the necessary fundamental principles to any repair situation they come across.
The duration of face to face training is typically half a day, allowing for breaks and quizzes.
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Assessment Coupon Click to expand
The assessment coupon for Level 2 and Level 3 has been custom designed to simulate the typical crack repair joint types encountered, and incorporates the 3 common classes of materials used to construct mining equipment. The welder must put the theory they have learnt into practice, demonstrate their proficiency with the various welding processes and tools, and achieve the required weld quality.
The welding of the coupon must be carried out in the presence of an Accredited Supervisor.
The coupon can be completed in as little as 8 hours, but may take multiple shifts for Welders who do not frequently weld or are struggling to achieve the required quality. For this reason, it is strongly recommended that a Welder should only attempt the coupon assessment once they are confident in their abilities. This can be achieved by practice and/or coaching.
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Testing of Coupon Click to learn more
On completion of the coupon, it will first of all be visually assessed by the Accredited Supervisor.
The next step is NDT consisting of MPI and UT of all welds.
If the coupon passes the UT, it may then progress to Mechanical Testing. A total of 4 macros are prepared, and hardness testing is carried out to confirm that the working temperature has been maintained and there is no carbon enrichment remaining from gouging.
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Competency Certificates and Documentation Click to learn more
All assessment data and reports must be provided to Welder Mining Competency for review in order to complete the marking and grading process in order to determine whether the welder is competent or not. The full information required consists of
Photos of provisional test pieces
Training outcomes
Assessment Supervision notes
NDT and Mechanical testing reports
On successful completion of all required elements, Mining Welder Competency will then issue a Certificate for the Competency. This Certificate may then be used as as evidence to submit to any Mine site as proof of competency.
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MWC makes it easy for you.
WQMS will guide you through the process and provide full ongoing support.
During an initial consultation prior to welder enrolment, we will find out what works best for you, and explain your options simply and clearly.
And if you need support we are only a phone call away. Call 02 55161008