AWS CWI Exam is one of the reputed and apex exams for welding in the United States. The American Welding Society conducts this exam. This is not just an exam it is a badge of leadership, experience, management, certification, and working skills. The CWI exam neither though not easy to crack. Applicants need to be detailed-oriented while preparing, and attentive during appearing in the exam. The exam consists of three (3) parts that are Part A, B, and C. In this article, read all about AWS CWI Exam in an elaborated way with cracking tips and guidelines.
Post Highlights:
- What is AWS CWI Exam?
- AWS CWI Exam Schedule
- CWI Exam Requirements
- CWI Exam Cost
- AWS CWI Exam Study Material
- CWI Exams Syllabus
- How to Prepare for AWS CWI Exam?
- CWI Exam Question Pattern
- Part A CWI Exam Questions
- Part B CWI Exam Questions
- Part C CWI Exam Questions
- AWS CWI Testing Centers
What is Certified Welding Inspector Exam?
The Certified Welding Inspector exam is a professional certification exam. The American Welding Society (AWS) administers this exam and allows aspiring applicants to test their skills. The exam is designed to test applicants’ knowledge and skills in welding inspection or related fields. Passing the exam demonstrates that the candidate has met the minimum requirements to perform welding inspection activities.
The CWI Exam Three Parts–
Part A (Fundamentals) – This section is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of welding fundamentals, including metallurgy, welding processes, welding symbols, and more.
Part B (Practical) – This section tests the ability to perform welding inspection tasks, including measuring welds, visual inspection, and interpreting test results.
Part C (Codebook) – This section tests the candidate’s ability to navigate and interpret codebooks and standards related to welding inspection, such as the American Welding Society (AWS) D1.1 Structural Welding Code.
A candidate must pass all three parts of the exam for becoming a certified welding inspector.
AWS CWI Exam Schedule
AWS offers the CWI exam at various locations and dates throughout the year. Aspiring candidates can find the current schedule of upcoming exam dates and locations on the AWS website.
For accessing the exam schedule follow these steps-
Step 1 – Visit the AWS website (www.aws.org)
Step 2 – Click on the “Certification” tab in the top menu
Step 3 – Select the “Professional Certifications” option
Step 4 – Select “Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)” from the dropdown menu
Step 5 – Click on the “Exam Schedule” link in the left-hand menu
Note: Applicants should keep in mind that exam dates and locations may be subject to change. So, it is important to confirm the information with AWS directly before making any travel arrangements or registering for an exam.
Also, candidates can contact AWS directly through its website or by phone for any questions about the CWI exam or the exam schedule.
CWI Exam Requirements
The American Welding Society has put certain requirements for the CWI exam. Some general requirements are as follows-
1. Education Level (schooling)- A High School Diploma or Equivalent
2. Work Experience – Possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in welding-related fields or 3 years of experience combined with a welding-related degree or certificate. The work experience must be in supervision, welding inspection, teaching, engineering, or a related field.
3. Exam Application – Applicants must submit an exam application to AWS, along with documentation of their work experience and education level.
4. Exam Preparation – Candidates must prepare for the exam from the required codebooks and other materials. They may choose to attend a CWI seminar or other training course as well.
5. Exam Performance – Applicants must pass all three parts of the CWI exam to get the certification. The parts include Part A (fundamentals), Part B (practical), and Part C (codebook).
6. Continuing Education – After obtaining certification, CWIs must complete ongoing continuing education to maintain their qualification of certification.
Note: There may be additional requirements depending on the industry in which you work for. Such as some industries may require additional certifications or specialized training.
CWI Exam Cost
The AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam cost varies depending on several factors such as exam location, AWS membership status, and level of exam. For example, in September 2021, the following costs were applied.
1. For AWS Members-
- Part A – $850
- Part B – $660
- Part C – $525
2. For Non-Members-
- Part A – $1075
- Part B – $825
- Part C – $655
Note: The exam fees are subject to change with or without notice. There may be additional fees for rescheduling, canceling, or retaking the exam. Therefore, candidates must check the AWS website or contact AWS directly for confirmation.
Also, there may be other preparation costs for the CWI exam, such as training courses, practice tests, or study materials.
AWS CWI Exam Study Material
The study materials for the CWI exam consist of sources like codebooks, training courses, practice tests, study guides, etc. Some of the most common study materials include.
1. Codebooks
- API 1104: Welding of Pipelines and Related Facilities
- ASME Section IX: Welding and Brazing Qualifications
- AWS D1.1: Structural Welding Code – Steel
- AWS D1.5: Bridge Welding Code
- AWS D15.1: Railroad Welding Specification for Cars and Locomotives
2. Study Guides – Applicants can obtain study guides for each part of the CWI exam from the AWS website. This helps to focus on study efforts and provides an overview of the exam content.
3. Practice Tests – This helps to test your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format. AWS offers practice tests for each part of the CWI exam including flashcards and quizzes.
4. Training Courses/Seminars – AWS’s CWI seminar helps candidates prepare for the exam. The seminar covers the exam content; provides practice questions; and offers tips/strategies for passing the exam. Additionally, many technical schools and training centers also offer specifically designed courses to prepare for the CWI exam.
5. Online Resources – These consist of forums, study groups, and blogs. This helps to connect with other aspiring CWIs and get advice/support from them for preparing for the exam.
CWI Exams Syllabus
CWI Exam consists of three (3) parts and the projected syllabus is as follows.
- Part A (Fundamentals Exam)
- Part B (Practical Exam)
- Part C (Code Book)
Part A (Fundamentals Exam)
- Destructive Testing
- Fabrication Math
- Metallurgy
- Nondestructive Testing (NDT)
- Safety in Welding
- Understanding Welding Symbols
- Welding Fundamentals
- WPS/PQR
Part B (Practical Exam)
- Application of WPSs and PQRs
- Execution of Required Welds
- Use of Inspection Tools and Methods
Part C (Code Book)
- ASME BPVC Section VIII, Div. 1 (2015) and Section IX (2015)
- API 1104 – Pipelines 21st Edition, December 2008/Errata 1 April 2014
- AWS D1.1 – Structural Steel Code: 2020 Edition
- AWS D1.2 – Structural Aluminum Code: 2014 Edition
- AWS D1.5 – Bridge Welding Code: 2015 Edition (including Clause 12)
- AWS D15.1 – Railroad: 2012 Edition
- AWS D17.1 – Aerospace: 2017 w/Amendment 1
- ASME BPVC Section IX, Power (B31.1) and Process (B31.3) Piping
- ASME BPVC Sec IX (2019 Edition), B31.1 (2018), and B31.3 (2018)
How to Prepare for AWS CWI Exam?
Some of the exam preparation steps are as follows.
1. Familiar with Exam Content – The CWI exam consists of three parts such as fundamental knowledge exam, practical exam, and codebook exam. AWS website is the best option to find detailed information on the exam content and requirements.
2. Study Welding Codes/Standards – Applicants must study the codes thoroughly and understand their requirements. The exam covers a wide range of welding codes and standards, including the AWS D1.1, ASME Section IX, API 1104, and more.
3. Get Hands-on Experience – Candidates should have a practical experience in welding inspection because the exam tests your ability to visually inspect and evaluate welds.
4 Take a Prep Course – Applicants can take a variety of prep courses (including online courses and in-person seminars) for the CWI exam. This helps to review the exam content and imparts a better understanding of the exam format.
5. Take Practice Exams – This helps candidates to identify their strengths and weaknesses and provides familiarity with the exam format. AWS practice exams help candidates to prepare for the real exam.
CWI Exam Question Pattern
1. Part A CWI Exam Questions – This consists of 150 multiple-choice questions from a broad range of welding-related topics such as welding metallurgy, welding processes, welding inspection, welding symbols, and codes and standards.
Some of the question examples are as follows-
Q 1. What is the primary function of flux in a welding operation?
- To protect the weld from atmospheric contamination
- To provide filler metal for the weld
- To enhance the weld strength
- To prevent the weld from cracking
Q 2. What is the most common welding process used for welding stainless steel?
- Gas metal arc welding (GMAW)
- Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)
- Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW)
- Flux-cored arc welding (FCAW)
Q 3. What is the maximum allowable undercut depth for a weld according to AWS D1.1?
- 1/32 inch
- 1/16 inch
- 1/8 inch
- 3/16 inch
Q 4. What is the purpose of preheat in welding?
- To minimize distortion
- To prevent cracking
- To enhance weld strength
- To improve the appearance of the weld
Q 5. What is the minimum required fillet weld size for a lap joint with a 1/4-inch thickness according to AWS D1.1?
- 1/8 inch
- 3/16 inch
- 1/4 inch
- 5/16 inch
These are just examples of the actual pattern. The actual questions may vary and may be more detailed or complex. So, candidates must understand the basic concepts and principles.
2. Part B CWI Exam Questions – This practical portion of the exam consists of 46 questions related to the hands-on activities. Applicants are tested here on their ability to perform visual inspections and measurements of welds. They are given a set of test specimens. Candidates need to identify any defects or discontinuities in the welds.
Some of the test specimens and defects that may appear on the exam-
Q 1. Butt joint with incomplete penetration
- You will need to measure the depth of the weld and determine whether it meets the required depth according to the applicable code or standard.
- You will need to identify any areas where the weld did not penetrate the joint and determine whether it is acceptable or not.
Q 2. Fillet weld with undercut
- You will need to measure the depth of the undercut and determine whether it meets the allowable depth according to the applicable code or standard.
- You will need to identify any areas where the weld has insufficient reinforcement and determine whether it is acceptable or not.
Q 3. Surface crack on a weld
- You will need to measure the length and depth of the crack and determine whether it is acceptable or not according to the applicable code or standard.
- You will need to identify any other defects or discontinuities that may be present in the weld and determine whether they are acceptable or not.
Q 4. Porosity in a weld
- You will need to identify the type of porosity present in the weld (e.g., gas porosity, slag inclusion, etc.) and determine whether it is acceptable or not according to the applicable code or standard.
- You will need to determine the extent of the porosity and whether it affects the strength or integrity of the weld.
3. Part C CWI Exam Questions – This open-book test consists of 50 to 60 exam questions based on the Code Book Editions. Applicants are given a set of codebooks and asked to answer questions based on the information contained in these books.
Some of the question examples in Part C are as follows.
Q 1. What is the maximum allowable interpass temperature for welding of carbon steel according to ASME Section IX?
- 300°F
- 450°F
- 600°F
- 750°F
Q 2. What is the minimum preheat temperature required for welding of ASTM A572 Grade 50 steel according to AWS D1.1?
- 50°F
- 100°F
- 150°F
- 200°F
Q 3. According to API 1104, what is the maximum allowable size of a weld defect before it must be repaired?
- 1/4 inch
- 1/8 inch
- 1/16 inch
- 1/32 inch
Q 4. According to AWS D1.1, what is the minimum required length of a weld that is to be tested by radiography?
- 3 inches
- 6 inches
- 9 inches
- 12 inches
Q 5. According to ASME Section V, what is the maximum allowable size of a discontinuity in a radiographic image before it must be rejected?
- 1/32 inch
- 1/16 inch
- 1/8 inch
- 1/4 inch
AWS CWI Testing Centers
The American Welding Society has many authorized testing centers throughout the world. Candidates can take the Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam at their convenience. The testing centers are typically located at technical schools, colleges, and other training facilities.
Find AWS Testing Center-
Step 1 – Visit the AWS website (www.aws.org)
Step 2 – Click on the “Certification” tab
Step 3 – Select the “Find a Test Site” option
Step 4 – Search for authorized testing centers
Note: Candidates need to register for the exam through AWS before scheduling the exam date and location. They may be a remote testing option. It means you can take the exam from the very comfort of your own home or office. AWS does this if you meet the technical requirements and have a suitable testing environment.
Summary
The Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) exam is a professional certification exam in welding in the United States. The American Welding Society (AWS) offers and conducts this exam both in the USA and abroad at recognized centers. The exam tests an individual’s knowledge and skills in welding inspection through three parts: Fundamentals, Practical, and Codebook.
The exam requires candidates to pass all three parts to become certified welding inspectors. Once certified, a CWI is recognized and authorized to perform welding inspection activities in various industries and settings as a qualified welding inspector.
