What is the accepted standard for the visual examination of welds?

The accepted standard for the visual examination of welds is found in AWS D1.1, which is the American Welding Society's structural welding code. This standard specifically outlines the requirements for visual inspection of welds, including criteria for acceptability, the qualifications of inspectors, and the techniques that should be employed to ensure thorough inspection.

The AWS D1.1 standard is widely recognized and utilized in various industries, making it a cornerstone for ensuring that welds meet the necessary quality and safety standards. By focusing on elements like surface finish, joint fit-up, and the absence of defects, this standard helps in maintaining the integrity of welded structures.

Other standards listed, such as API 1104 and ISO 9001, address various aspects of welding and quality management but do not serve as the primary guidance for visual inspection of welds specifically. ANSI Z49.1 pertains to safety in welding and cutting operations, which is essential but not directly related to the examination of weld quality through visual inspection.