According to EN ISO 15607:2019, a Standard Welding Procedure Specification (SWPS) is a prequalified WPS that can be used without performing a full WPQR, provided the welding parameters fall within the standard's established range. This speeds up production while maintaining quality.
An SWPS differs fundamentally from a preliminary WPS (pWPS) and a Welding Procedure Approval Record (WPAR). A pWPS is a draft procedure prepared before qualification, used as a basis for the WPQR but not yet approved for production. A WPAR is the record of the actual welding parameters and test results that qualify a pWPS. In contrast, an SWPS is already qualified through prior testing by a recognized body, such as a national welding authority.
Key distinctions:
• SWPS: Pre-qualified, ready for production within its limits.
• pWPS: Draft, requires qualification.
• WPAR: Documented proof of qualification.
For welding coordinators, using an SWPS reduces the time and cost of qualification when standard joint configurations and materials are involved. However, the SWPS must be used exactly as defined; any deviation requires a new pWPS and WPQR.
How do you manage SWPS adoption in your fabrication shop?
Source: EN ISO 15607:2019