Structural Welder

Welder Qualification Test – Structural Plate (Back-Gouged T-Joint)

Tarpon Specialty Services is seeking experienced structural welders to qualify on a vertical structural plate welding test. This qualification is designed to verify advanced welding skills, including full-penetration welds, multi-pass technique, and proper back-gouging practices on thick structural material.

Welding Process: Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) only

Test Overview

• Material: 1-1/2” structural plate

• Joint Type: T-joint

• Joint Preparation: Double-beveled vertical plate welded into a 1-1/2” base plate

• Position: Vertical (3G configuration)

Welding Sequence

• Fit and tack the joint in place

• Weld the first side using a root pass, hot pass, and three (3) fill passes

• Flip to the back side and back gouge to clean, sound metal

• Present the back-gouged joint to the inspector for approval

• Weld out the back side of the joint

• Return to the front side and complete the final weld-out

Skills This Test Confirms

• Ability to weld thick structural plate in the vertical position

• Proper execution of multi-pass welding techniques

• Correct back-gouging practices to achieve full penetration

• Understanding of inspection hold points and weld quality requirements

• Capability to produce code-quality structural welds without assistance

This qualification is intended for experienced structural welders who are comfortable working with heavy material, following procedures, and meeting inspection standards.