Structural Steel (Welding and Bolting)

The customary practice of fabrication of steel in the shop prior to erection conveniently allows division of observation of structural steel into two basic categories, shop and field. Our scope of work may include:

Review manufacturers test reports for compliance with requirements specified.

Verify material identification.

Inspect high strength bolted connections.

Sample and test high strength bolts.
Inspect field welding.
Inspect fabrication shop welding/bolting.
Inspect welding in accordance with AWS D1.1. The following shall be performed on each weld:

Verify Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) sheet has been provided and has been reviewed with each welder performing the weld. Welds not executed in conformance with the WPS are rejected.
Verify fit-up meets tolerances of WPS and mark joint prior to welding.
Verify welding consumables per contract documents and WP.
Verify welder qualification and identification.
Verify amperage and voltage at the arc with hand held meters.
Observe preheat and inter-pass temperatures, weld pass sequence and size of weld bead.

For seismic critical welds, inspect removal of back-up and run-off plates, preparatory grinding and execution of reinforcing fillet, verify smoothness of beam flange copes at reduced beam sections, and verify weld access holes meet surface requirements of AWS Section 5.15.4.3.
Nondestructive test all complete penetration groove welds larger than 5/16 inches by ultrasonic methods for conformance with the weld quality and standard acceptance of AWS D1.1 for welds subject to tensile strength. Pass sound through entire weld volume from two crossing directions.
Test column webs for cracking using dye penetrant or magnetic partial test, over 3" minimum zone above and below continuity plates after welding.
Inspect "reduced beam flange sections" for accuracy of profile and smoothness of ground surface.
Ultrasonically inspect base metal thicker than 1" for discontinuities behind welds.
Inspect and test stud welding in accordance with AWS D1.1. Review pre-production testing and qualification. Inspect welding and perform welding verification inspection and testing.
Inspect and test deck welding in accordance with AWS D1.3. Review pre-production testing and qualification. inspect welding and perform verification, inspection and testing.
Inspect and test welding of shear connector studs in accordance with AWS Dl.1. Review pre-production testing and qualification. Inspect welding and perform verification, inspection and testing.
Inspect and test field strength bolting and welding as described above.
Perform plant inspection and test expansion of adhesive anchors.
Field inspect and test expansion of adhesive anchors and verify that all seats, plates, and reinforcement of other items to be cast into concrete are accurately placed, positioned securely, and positioned securely as not to cause hardship in placing concrete.
Prepare reports summarizing all observations and test results.