
What skills and qualifications should a high temperature welder have?
A high-temperature welder performs an extremely demanding and responsible, and at the same time well-paid job. This type of welders is involved in joining materials that require very high temperatures to melt them. This involves the need to have unique skills, advanced technical knowledge and appropriate qualifications.
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Table of Contents:
What does a high-temperature welder do?
High-temperature welders work on welding materials that require very high temperatures, such as steel, cast iron, rare metal alloys and ceramics. Their work is essential in many industrial sectors, including:
- Petrochemical industry
- Energy, especially in the construction and repair of boilers and turbines
- Steel and metallurgical industry
- Aviation and spaceflight
- Heavy construction, e.g. steel structures and bridges
This type of welding requires specialist tools and techniques. For example – arc welding using shielding gases, plasma welding, or welding with an electric arc in a vacuum environment.
High-temperature welder – technical skills
A high-temperature welder should be proficient in a variety of welding techniques. One of the most commonly used methods is plasma arc welding (PAW), which allows for very high temperatures. It is often used for welding thick metals. The second, frequently used method is gas-shielded arc welding (TIG and MIG/MAG). It ensures process stability and allows for precise control of heat and welding speed. In addition, electroslag welding (ESW), which is used for thicker steel elements, especially in heavy industry.
However, knowledge of welding methods is not everything. It is equally important to understand the thermal, physical and chemical properties of various materials. Without this knowledge, a high-temperature welder will not be able to correctly select the welding technique and process parameters. Working with materials with high heat resistance requires knowledge of their reaction to temperature changes and their resistance to deformation and cracking.
In addition, a high-temperature welder should be familiar with weld quality control methods, including non-destructive testing techniques such as:
- Industrial radiography (RT)
- Ultrasonic non-destructive testing (UT)
- Penetrant testing (PT)
This allows the welder to assess the quality of the joint and identify any irregularities.
Required qualifications and certificates
High-temperature welding requires specialist certificates and authorizations. In most European countries, certification must be in accordance with international standards, such as those of the European Welding Federation (EWF) and the International Institute of Welding (IIW).
EWF/IIW certificates, e.g. at the level of IWP (International Welding Practitioner) or IWS (International Welding Specialist), confirm qualifications to weld in accordance with international standards.
A high-temperature welder must also be appropriately trained in protection against the hazards resulting from work at elevated temperatures. These qualifications include fire protection training and health and safety courses specific to high-temperature welding. In addition, certified training centers in EU countries offer courses that include:
- High-temperature welding techniques
- Work safety in difficult conditions
- Principles of operation of welding equipment for high-temperature metals
High-temperature welder – employment prospects and salary
High-temperature welders are in demand in various industrial sectors. This makes the employment prospects very good. The high demand for specialists in this field also translates into attractive earnings. Depending on the country and industry, a high-temperature welder can count on a salary of 3,000 to 6,000 euros per month. However, in some countries, such as Germany, Norway or Switzerland, earnings can be even higher.
Is it worth choosing the profession of a high-temperature welder?
The job of a high-temperature welder certainly requires dedication and responsibility. However, it also offers unique professional opportunities, especially for those looking for challenges and an attractive salary. Thanks to the possibility of obtaining international certificates and working in various industrial sectors, this profession offers broad development prospects and employment stability for many years.