Guide (2026–2027) | 20 Original Practice Questions with
Detailed Explanations | Visual Inspection Techniques,
Weld Discontinuities, NDT, Welding Metallurgy, WPS,
PQR & Quality Assurance
1. What is the primary purpose of visual inspection before welding begins?
A. Measure electrical resistance of the weld
B. Verify that the base material, joint preparation, and fit-up conform to applicable requirements
C. Determine the weld metal's chemical composition
D. Perform a pressure test
Visual inspection before welding helps identify issues with joint preparation, cleanliness, alignment, and
fit-up that could affect weld quality.
2. Which tool is commonly used to measure weld size and reinforcement during a visual inspection?
A. Micrometer only
B. Welding gauge (fillet or bridge cam gauge)
C. Clamp meter
D. Digital thermometer
Specialized welding gauges are designed to measure fillet weld leg size, reinforcement, undercut, and
other weld dimensions.
3. Which condition should be corrected before welding starts?
A. Proper joint alignment
B. Oil, rust, paint, or other contaminants on the weld surface
C. Correct root opening
D. Approved base material identification
Surface contamination can contribute to weld defects such as porosity or lack of fusion.
, 4. Which discontinuity can often be identified by visual inspection alone?
A. Internal lack of fusion
B. Internal slag inclusion
C. Surface crack
D. Internal porosity
Surface-breaking cracks are often visible, while internal discontinuities generally require other inspection
methods.
5. During visual inspection, why is adequate lighting important?
A. To reduce welding current
B. To improve the inspector's ability to detect surface discontinuities and dimensional issues
C. To increase weld penetration
D. To reduce distortion
Proper lighting improves visibility and helps inspectors identify discontinuities more reliably.
6. Which document typically specifies the required weld dimensions and acceptance criteria?
A. Shipping manifest
B. Applicable drawings, welding procedure, or governing code/standard
C. Payroll record
D. Equipment warranty
Inspection criteria are established by the applicable engineering documentation and governing
requirements.
7. Which condition is an example of a fit-up issue that should be identified before welding?
A. Correct weld profile
B. Excessive root gap or joint misalignment
C. Uniform weld color
D. Acceptable reinforcement
Improper fit-up can make it difficult to produce a sound weld and may require correction before welding
begins.
8. What is the primary purpose of a post-weld visual inspection?
A. Determine the alloy composition of the weld metal
B. Verify that the completed weld meets specified visual and dimensional acceptance criteria