When tensile strength tests are omitted for welder qualifications, what must be done?

When tensile strength tests are omitted for welder qualifications, the appropriate course of action is for the specimens designated for this test to undergo the nick break test. The nick break test serves as an alternative method to evaluate the integrity and quality of the welds performed by the welder. This test involves creating a small notch in the weld and then subjecting it to a bending action, allowing for assessment of the strength and soundness of the joint without performing the tensile test.

This approach aligns with the standards outlined in API 1104, which acknowledges the necessity of ensuring that the welds meet specific strength and ductility requirements, even when certain tests are skipped. By utilizing the nick break test, it provides a reliable means of verifying a welder's skill and the quality of their welds, ensuring compliance with necessary safety and structural performance standards in pipeline construction and maintenance.