We all know this: “Quality cannot be inspected into a product, it has to be built-in. Even the most extensive and sophisticated non-destructive testing does not improve the quality of the product.”
The ISO 3834 standard series was developed to address quality requirements applicable to welded products and components. It was prepared such that:
- it is independent of the type of construction manufactured
- it defines quality requirements for welding in workshops and/or on site
- it provides guidance for describing a manufacturer’s capability to produce constructions to meet specified requirements
- it provides a basis for assessing a manufacturer’s welding capability.
It standard applies to those who fabricate structural metalwork by fusion welding, particularly if the component is to be sold in the European Union and the UK. Beyond that, however, ISO 3834 is recognized worldwide for quality control of welding operations and processes.