Professional Welder with Pipefitting

This course is designed to introduce students to two new and related welding processes. GMAW or MIG uses a torch designed to provide a shielding gas for the weld and an automatic wire feed system that provides a constant feed of the filler metal. FCAW or Fluxcore uses a similar torch but uses a powdered flux to shield the weld. These processes are a considerable departure from processes previously used. Students learn to set up and operate GMAW/FCAW welding equipment. These processes are applied in different combinations for welding plate in various basic positions. Students learn to correctly prepare pipe for GMAW/FCAW welding processes. In addition, as part of an expanding knowledge about construction drawings, students learn about isometric drawings and their importance as a three- dimensional picture of an object.

This course essentially focuses on developing flat welding techniques in three basic positions and builds on the fundamental knowledge and skills learned in WLD101. SMAW processes are used to practice weld technique and perform basic butt welds using mild steel. Two primary welding electrodes are applied to various welding exercises and students learn fundamental procedures related to root pass and fill welds. Students continue to build their skills through a series of project exercises designed to reinforce skills and knowledge learned. Students expand their knowledge about related welding diagrams and drawings and methods of coding various types of metal. Drawings are used to communicate lab project information and reinforce reading and interpreting welding symbols. Students are also introduced to basic destructive weld testing techniques and the importance of quality welds to achieve maximum strength and integrity of the metal. Basic principles of metallurgy explain to students the changes in metals’ internal structure during the heating and cooling processes. Students are also introduced to welding pipe. The challenge is to weld consistently while moving around the pipe. Five-inch diameter pipe is cut using thermal processes and prepared for welding. For the exercise, students weld pipe in only one basic position.

This course presents new challenges from the first two courses. Students expand their knowledge and skills to perform and practice basic pipe welding techniques using two welding processes (SMAW & GTAW). The GTAW process is introduced and students practice performing basic root welds on pipe coupons. The remainder of the welding procedure applies SMAW processes to complete the fill and cap welds. Reading and interpreting basic pipe drawings, students cut pipe coupons to length and bevel the pipe ends using thermal and mechanical beveling processes. Students face their first experience at practicing uphill and other welding techniques simultaneously. They practice welding in multiple positions as they travel around the pipe to complete the weld. Also, as a continuation of basic metallurgy, students learn various techniques for identifying types of metal using visual and mechanical testing techniques.

Students continue to develop, apply and practice their pipe welding skills. Mild steel pipe is welded in various positions using primarily GTAW (TIG) welding processes. In addition, students learn to use stainless steel electrodes to weld high carbon steel. Using two-inch diameter pipe, students practice using the GTAW process to weld the root and complete the fill and cap portion of the weld using SMAW processes. They also learn to properly rig and balance pipe loads, use hand signal communication to the crane operator, and lift and place pipe in preparation for welding operations. Most pipe welding is performed in an open environment using various types of portable welding equipment. Students learn to set up and safely operate portable welding units for structural and pipe welding operations. Emphasis is given to awareness about electrical safety and steps necessary to prevent electrical shock.

The welding capstone course is a transition course from the classroom to the field. Students are challenged in the laboratory to use all the welding knowledge and skills they have gained in a series of exercises designed to reinforce prior instruction, hone skills, and practice production rates that meet industry standards. Students
are given three possible options they can pursue to complete course requirements. The selection of the option depends on the method students intend to apply after graduation.

Time is also given to prepare for and seek gainful employment. Students prepare resumes, practice the interview process, learn about good work ethics including work habits and appearance, and complete employment applications.

This course explains the role and importance of safety. Students will learn how to identify and follow safe work practices and procedures as well as how to properly inspect and use safety equipment. Students will also receive an introduction to construction drawings, construction math, and blueprints. Students will also receive an orientation to the pipefitting trade along with tools and techniques of basic employability skills. The students will also learn and explore oxyfuel cutting.

This course provides an introduction into the various hand tools and power tools used in the Pipefitting industry. Students will also explore and identify various piping systems. Students will also revisit blueprints from an advanced perspective. Pipefitting trade math as well is presented during this course.

This course describes the materials used in threaded piping systems and socket weld piping systems. Students will be instructed on how to determine pipe length between both threaded pipe and socket weld fittings, prepare pipe and fitting for fit-up, and assemble/fabricate piping systems and socket weld fittings. Students will also be introduced to pipe hanger and support as well as receive an introduction to butt weld pipe fabrication.

This course describes the materials used in butt welding piping systems. It explains how to determine pipe lengths between butt weld fittings, prepare the pipe and fittings for fit-up, and fabricate butt weld fittings. Students will also learn how to select and install backing rings, fabricate channel iron welding jigs, and use and care for welding clamps. This course also introduces students to aboveground pipe installation. Students are also introduced to special piping applications.