What does the term 'welding procedure' typically include?

The term 'welding procedure' encompasses a set of detailed instructions and specifications that guide the welder in executing the welding task. This includes critical information such as the type of welding process to be used, the materials to be welded, the joint design, welding positions, filler materials, preheat and interpass temperatures, and the parameters for voltage, current, and travel speed.

Having well-defined instructions ensures consistency and quality in the welds produced, adhering to industry standards and codes. This is vital for safety and structural reliability in welded components, as improper procedures can lead to defects, failures, and safety hazards.

While health and safety measures, equipment design, and cost considerations are certainly important aspects of welding operations, they do not fully represent the comprehensive nature of a welding procedure, which is primarily focused on the technical aspects of how welding should be performed. Thus, instructions for the welding process and specifications are at the core of what constitutes a welding procedure.