Achieving satisfactory performance in welded connections, involves proper connection design, the specification of weld details, fabrication and quality assurance.
In New Zealand and Australia, steel structures designed to NZS 3404 or AS/NZS 5100.6 are required to be fabricated and erected in accordance with AS/NZS 5131 Structural steelwork – Fabrication and erection. This standard makes references to a number of welding-related standards such as AS/NZS 1554 series that are also applicable for applications such as: trailer manufacturing, marine and boatbuilding, maintenance etc.
Engineers are responsible for designing, assessment and maintenance of welded structures require knowledge in welding technology and inspection techniques.
To ensure that the welded steel component or structural steelwork is fit-for-purpose, the engineers need to be familiar with the key aspects of quality management in welding fabrication.