AWS B1.11M/B1.11:2015

This guide essentially provides an introduction to visual examination of welding. These examinations fall into three categories based on the time they are performed, as follows:

• (1) prior to welding,
• (2) during welding, and
• (3) after welding.

An extensive treatment is provided on weld surface conditions, including reference to frequently used terminologies associated with preferred and non-preferred conditions. Visual examination may be performed by different people or organizations. Personnel performing welding examination include welders, welding supervisors, the contractor’s welding inspector, the purchaser’s examiner, or the regulatory inspector. For the purpose of simplicity, these individuals are referred to as visual inspectors in this standard.

Also provided is a review of visual examination equipment routinely used, such as gauges and lighting equipment. Formal documentation of visual examination results is also discussed.