ISO 15614-13:2023

Overview

ISO 15614-13:2023 specifies how a preliminary welding procedure specification (pWPS) is qualified by welding procedure tests for upset (resistance butt) and flash welding of metallic materials. It defines test execution conditions, acceptance criteria and the range of qualification for welding procedures across all product forms (solid, tubular, flat, circular). Two test classes - Class A (more extensive) and Class B (less restrictive) - are provided; Class A qualification automatically covers Class B. When no class is specified, Class A applies.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope of processes: Covers resistance welding processes defined in ISO 4063 - 24 (flash welding) and 25 (resistance butt/upset welding), using AC or DC and various flashing/current/pressure sequences.
• Procedure documentation: pWPS must be prepared per ISO 15609-5 and include all relevant parameters.
• Welding procedure test (WPT): Defines how welding tests are performed and how test pieces/specimens are prepared (actual components preferred; comparable test specimens allowed when necessary).
• Test classes and range of qualification:
  • Class A (level 2 per ISO 15614-1): greater extent of testing, more restrictive qualification ranges.
  • Class B (level 1): broader ranges, reduced testing.
• Testing and examination methods:
  • Non‑destructive testing (NDT) options such as visual, penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy-current and ultrasonic testing.
  • Destructive tests including tensile, three‑point bend, cupping, bend tests, hardness distribution and macrosection examination.
  • Retesting and acceptance levels aligned with referenced ISO norms (e.g., ISO 11666, ISO 17639, ISO 17640).
• Qualification records: Results are recorded in a Welding Procedure Qualification Record (WPQR); example WPQR forms are provided in the standard.
• Personnel: Weld setters/operators who pass the WPT are qualified within ranges described in ISO 14732.

Practical applications - who uses ISO 15614-13

• Welding engineers, QA/QC managers and inspectors who develop, qualify and approve welding procedures for resistance welding.
• Manufacturers and fabricators using upset (resistance butt) or flash welding for components in sectors where controlled mechanical properties and repeatable weld quality are required.
• Standards and compliance teams ensuring welding procedure documentation (pWPS/WPQR) meets international requirements.

Related standards

• ISO 15609-5 (pWPS for resistance welding)
• ISO 15614-1 / ISO 15607 (general rules for welding procedure qualification)
• ISO 4063 (welding process classification)
• ISO 14732 (qualification of welding operators/weld setters)
• ISO 11666, ISO 17639, ISO 17640 (NDT and destructive testing guidance)

Keywords: ISO 15614-13, upset welding, resistance butt welding, flash welding, welding procedure qualification, pWPS, WPQR, resistance welding, NDT, welding standard.