Established process and background of WES 2011 and WES 2021

In order to detect and evaluate the defects in welded parts, generally radiographic test and ultrasonic test are used for detecting the internal defects, and magnetic powder and infiltration flaw detecting tests are used for detecting the surface defects. As the standards applied in the case of carrying out these nondestructive tests, 17 JIS standards have been instituted. But these standards stipulate the general requirements at least when nondestructive tests are executed, and the method of utilizing the features of these techniques is not stipulated. Therefore, for the purpose of accurately detect welding defects, the Japan Welding Engineering Society has stipulated the method of application utilizing the features of various nondestructive tests, and has instituted various WES standards. As to WES 2011 'Method of radiographic test and method of classifying radiographs for the butt-welded joints of steel plates', the basic concept, the important points in the testing method and the classifying method are explained. Also as to WES 2021 'Method of ultrasonic oblique flaw detection test and method of classifying the test results for the butt-welded joints of steel plates', the basic concept, the method of classifying defects and evaluation level, and the measurement of indicated length of defects are discussed. (Kako, I.)