PRC-0002 Rev.

Process Specification for the Manual Arc

Welding of Titanium Alloy Hardware

Engineering Directorate

Structural Engineering Division

May 2020

National Aeronautics and

Space Administration

Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center

Houston, Texas

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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

Process Specification for the Manual Arc

Welding of Titanium Alloy Hardware

Prepared by: Signature on File 05/26/2020

Daniel J. Rybicki Division/NT4 Date
Materials and Processes
Branch/ES4

Reviewed by: Signature on File 05/26/2020

John D. Figert Date
Materials and Processes
Branch/ES4

Reviewed by: Signature on File 05/26/2020

Clinton S. Denny Date
Quality and Flight Equipment
Division/NT4

Approved by: Signature on File 05/26/2020

Brian Mayeaux Date
Materials and Processes
Branch/ES4

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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

REVISI
ONS
VERSIO DESCRIPTI DATE
N ON
-- Original version 6/1/95
Formatting, changed process owner, rewrite
numerous sections for clarification, deleted
A requirement for WIR, deleted section 8.2 on audits, 07/07/99
added section 8.3 on WPQ, deleted mil specs for
NDE, added PRCs for
NDE.
Comprehensive rewrite to combine PRC-0002 and
PRC-0004 and make editorial changes. PRC-0004 12/30/200
B will be cancelled with this change. Include 3
requirements for precision cleaned hardware (ref.
JPG 5332.1).
Updated the review and approval signature blocks;
added definitions of flight and non-flight hardware in
2.0; added NAS 410, NASA-STD-5009, PRC-5010,
PRC-6510 and AWS G2.4 to 4.0; deleted PRC-6504
from 4.0; revised 6.5 to allow mechanical repairs and
restrict welded repairs to one attempt; revised 7.0 10/10/201
C through 7.3 to add separate inspection requirements 2
for flight hardware and require NAS 410 certification
for NDE personnel inspecting flight hardware;
revised the WPS, PQR and WPQ requirements in
8.0 to include a provision found in 6.1.1; and revised
Appendix A in its entirety.
Rewrite numerous sections for clarification, added
Appendix B (hardware classifications), modified
Class B and C weld definitions, added JPG 8500 to
references, removed PRC-0008 and TI-0000-01 from 05/15/202
D references, rewrote section 5.0, added more 0
emphasis on using ELI grade filler metals, require
MTR for filler procurement, restructured list in section
6.6, added definitions as section 10.0, align format
and content with PRC-0015.

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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

1.0 SCOPE

This process specification provides the minimum requirements that govern the
manual arc welding of titanium alloy flight and non-flight hardware. Procedural and
quality assurance requirements are given. All work instructions and Welding
Procedure Specifications (WPS) used during welding shall satisfy the requirements
of this process specification and its applicable documents.

2.0 APPLICABILITY

This process specification applies to arc welding of titanium and titanium alloy
hardware that is fabricated under the authority of NASA/Johnson Space Center
(JSC) by the following welding process: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and
Plasma Arc Welding (PAW).
The Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) process is not considered an acceptable
process for welding titanium alloys under this process specification.

3.0 USAGE

This process specification shall be called out on the engineering drawing by a

drawing note with the following format (example shown) which specifies the PRC
and weld class nomenclature:

WELD AND INSPECT PER NASA/JSC PRC-0002, CLASS A

To minimize fabrication costs by avoiding over-inspection and unnecessary

rework/repair, individual welds, or components on a weldment shall be classified
separate where possible. This can be accomplished by including a note on the
engineering drawing with the general format shown below which specifies only the
PRC nomenclature. The weld class shall then be indicated by either: 1) calling out
the specific weld class with the welding symbol at the individual weld joints or, 2) by
using specific flag notes with the welding symbol at the individual weld joints. Refer
to Figure 3.0a and 3.0b below for examples of these methods.

WELD AND INSPECT PER NASA/JSC PRC-0002. WELD CLASSES SHALL BE

AS INDICATED AT WELD LOCATION CALLOUTS.

3.1 WELDING CLASSES

Welds made using this specification shall be primarily classified in accordance with
the service conditions of the weldment. Therefore, the "Class" defines the severity
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of service intended for the joint by design and governs the extent to which quality
assurance provisions are applied to the weld joint as specified herein.

Alternatively, individual welds, welded connections, or entire weldments may be

classified by relating the weld to the factor of safety used in the design. However,
when classifying welds in this manner, regardless of the factor of safety, adequate
consideration should be given to the severity of the service condition (e.g., static
loading vs. dynamic loading, cyclic, vibration, fatigue, corrosive, extreme temp, etc.),
material characteristics (e.g., ductility, toughness, etc.), and the potential
consequences of weld failure.
Where conditions exist that make it difficult to choose between two weld classes, the
more stringent of the two classes shall then be applied.
Quality assurance provisions for all weld classes are detailed in Section 7.0. Weld
classes shall be chosen on the basis of the following definitions:

a. Class A — Applies to welds in critical load bearing elements that are

not fail- safe. Class A welds are typically used in primary load bearing
connections. Failure of a Class A weld in service is expected to be
catastrophic and would likely result in the loss of life, system(s),
control, or major components. Alternatively, if it is determined from
appropriate engineering analyses that a weld has a Factor of Safety
(FSuts) vs ultimate tensile strength of the calculated minimum weld
throat cross section of 2.0, it shall be designated as a Class A weld.

b. Class B — Applies to welds in load bearing elements that are fail-safe.

Class B welds are typically used in secondary load bearing (i.e.,
shared load) connections. Failure of a Class B weld in service is
expected to be serious and would likely reduce the overall efficiency
of the system, but the loss of a system(s) or major components or
endangerment to personnel is not expected. Alternatively, if it is
determined from appropriate engineering analyses that a weld will
have a FSuts of 2.0 and <3.5, it may be designated as a Class B weld.

c. Class C — Applies to welds that are in minor load bearing elements

that are fully contained where failure in service is expected to have
minor or no effect on the efficiency of a system and endangerment to
personnel would not occur. Class C welds are typically used in
secondary or tertiary load bearing (i.e., shared load) connections.
Alternatively, if it is determined from appropriate engineering analyses
that a weld will have a FSuts of 3.5, it may be designated as a Class
C weld.

In addition to the above weld class definitions, the following requirements shall also
apply to weld classifications:

 If any weld intersects or overlaps another weld of a higher classification,

then the lower classed weld shall be automatically upgraded to the higher
of the 2 weld classes and subjected to the appropriate quality assurance
provisions.
 If any weld falls within ½” of any higher classed weld, then it shall be
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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

automatically upgraded to the higher of the 2 weld classes and subjected

to the appropriate quality assurance provisions.

3.2 WORK INSTRUCTIONS

Work instructions shall be used for implementing this process specification. The
work instructions shall contain enough detail to ensure that the manufacturing
process produces consistent, repeatable results that comply with this specification.
At JSC, these work instructions are approved as Detailed Process Instructions
(DPIs) that describe in a detailed, step-by-step format the required procedures,
equipment, and materials to be used for conducting a given process. If this
manufacturing process is to be performed by an outside vendor, work instruction
development shall be the responsibility of the vendor.
3.3 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

a. The design of welded joints (including weld sizes) shall utilize adequate
engineering analysis methods (e.g., stress analysis, fracture
mechanics/fracture control, finite element analysis, failure mode and
effects analysis, etc.) to ensure that the resultant connection strength is
capable of successfully transferring the maximum load expected to pass
between the interconnecting members and meet the required factors of
safety and design margins.

b. All engineering drawings shall depict welded joints using the applicable
symbols described in AWS A2.4.
c. The engineering drawing shall specify any additional or alternate testing
or inspection requirements. Where spot, intermittent, or other special
inspection requirements are specified that deviate from those stated
herein, it shall be detailed on the drawing as a note or by using the
applicable symbology described in AWS A2.4. For Class A welds,
alternate or reduced NDE requirements shall not be allowed.

d. Class A welds are expected to be welds requiring full strength of the

weld joint therefore, these welds shall be a groove design and full
penetration wherever possible. The ability to successfully perform
radiographic examination (RT) on these weld joints shall be considered
during design.

e. Except for titanium alloy 6Al-4V welded with 6Al-4V filler metal,
hardware will be delivered in the “as welded” condition unless otherwise
specified on the engineering drawing. If required, the engineering
drawing shall include notation that will specify an appropriate heat
treatment process, referencing SAE AMS-H- 81200. For welds in alloy
6Al-4V welded with 6Al-4V filler metal, a stress relief heat treatment at
1100o F for 2 hours (vacuum or inert gas atmosphere) shall be required.
f. Intermittent welding (skip welds) shall not be allowed for Class A joints.

g. Intermittent welds shall not be allowed for butt welds (square or groove
design) unless the unwelded portions of the joint are adequately

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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

supported to prevent one member from coming out plane with the
adjoining member.

h. Weld filler material shall be specified on the engineering drawing in the parts
list.

4.0 REFERENCES

The standards listed below shall be considered a part of this specification to the
extent specified herein. Unless otherwise indicated, the revision that is in effect on
the date of invitation for bids or the date of request for proposals shall apply.

a. Aerospace Industries Association of America (AIA) National

Aerospace Standards (NAS)
NAS 410 NAS Certification & Qualification of Nondestructive Test
Personnel

b. American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)

SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive

Testing

c. American Welding Society (AWS) Standards

ANSI/AWS A2.4 Standard Symbols for Welding, Brazing and Nondestructive
Testing

ANSI/AWS A3.0 Standard Welding Terms and Definitions

ANSI/AWS A5.12 Specification for Tungsten Arc Welding Electrodes

ANSI/AWS A5.16 Specification for Titanium & Titanium Alloy Welding

Electrodes & Rods ANSI/AWS B2.1 Standard for Welding Procedure and

Performance Qualification ANSI/AWS D1.9 Structural Welding Code – Titanium

ANSI/AWS G2.4 Guide for the Fusion Welding of Titanium and Titanium Alloys

ANSI/AWS QC-1 Standard for AWS Certification of Welding Inspectors

d. Compressed Gas Association, Inc. (CGA)

CGA G-11.1 Argon, Commodity Specification for

e. Federal Documents
BB-H-1168 Helium Federal Specification
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f. Military Documents
MIL-A-18455 Argon, Technical

MIL-P-27407 Propellant Pressurizing Agent, Helium

g. NASA/JSC Documents
JPG 5322.1 Contamination Control Requirements Manual

JPG 8500.4 Engineering Drawing System Manual Drawing Format,

Requirements, and Procedures

PRC-5010 Process Specification for Pickling, Etching and Descaling of

Metals

PRC-6503 Process Specification for Radiographic Inspection

PRC-6506 Process Specification for Liquid Penetrant Inspection

PRC-6510 Process Specification for Ultrasonic Inspection of Welds

SOP-004.5 Control of Weld and Braze Filler Materials, Electrodes,

and Fluxing Materials

SOP-007.1 Preparation and Revision of Process Specifications

h. NASA Headquarters
NASA-SPEC-5004 Welding of Aerospace Ground Support Equipment
and Related Nonconventional Facilities

NASA-STD-5006 General Fusion Welding Requirements for Aerospace

Materials Used in Flight Hardware

NASA-STD-5009 Nondestructive Evaluation Requirements for Fracture Critical

Metallic Components

i. SAE – Aerospace Material Specification (AMS)

SAE AMS-H-81200 Heat Treatment of Titanium and Titanium Alloys

5.0 MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS

All base materials used in the welding of hardware per this process specification,
shall meet the requirements of an applicable commercial specification (e.g., AMS,
ASTM, etc.). Alternatively, a manufacturer's specification may be used but it must
be approved by the responsible materials and processes (M&P) organization. Filler
and electrode materials used shall conform to the applicable American Welding
Society (AWS) specification. Filler metals shall be extra low interstitial (ELI) grade
wherever possible. Interstitial elements include but are not limited to, oxygen,

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hydrogen, and nitrogen. Filler metals and electrodes purchased to alternate

specifications shall be allowed provided they meet the minimum requirements of the
specifications listed herein.
5.1 SHIELDING GASES

Allowable shielding gases (including purge gases) are listed in Table I. Gases
purchased to alternate specifications shall be allowed provided they meet the
minimum requirements of the specifications listed herein. Mixtures of these gases
are allowed, and the nominal mixture used for the qualification welding shall be that
used for production and shall be listed on the WPS. All shielding and purging gases
and nominal gas mixtures shall be treated as an essential procedure qualification
variable and shall be subject to the AWS B2.1 requirement for these variables. In
addition:

a. All gases used for welding and purging shall be delivered through clean,
non- volatile residue (NVR) tubing with known low permeability (e.g.
stainless steel, polyethylene).
b. Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, or hydrogen gas in any concentration,
shall not be used for shielding or purging in any welding operation
governed under this specification.

c. All gases used for shielding or purging shall have a dew point of -60°F
(-51 °C) or better and oxygen content shall not exceed 50 ppm.

Table I. Allowable Shielding Gases

GAS DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION

Argon Gas MIL-A-18455
Argon Type II, Grade B (Liquefied) CGA G-11.1
Helium Type I, Grade A MIL-P-27407
Helium Grade A BB-H-1168

5.1.1 Weld Atmosphere

A protective weld atmosphere shall be freely accessible to all portions of the joint.
The weld atmosphere for inert gas chambers, and gas supplies for trailing shields
shall be monitored for moisture or oxygen content. Dew points shall be -60°F (-51
°C) or better and O2 content shall not be greater than 50ppm. All gas shielding must
be checked to ensure that a positive flow exists all times, so that a stagnant
atmosphere does not exist during welding or when the base metal is at an elevated
temperature. Shielding and purging flows shall not be disengaged until the substrate
is below 600°F (~316°C).
5.1.2 Weld Atmosphere Purity Test

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Atmospheric purity shall be verified by making an autogenous fusion pass on a

commercially pure (CP) titanium strip, which has been properly cleaned. A fusion
zone and heat affected zone with a bright silver or light straw color is acceptable
(condition #1 or #2 below). No tacking or welding shall be performed on production
hardware until an acceptable color has been obtained. Weld discoloration condition
in increasing order of contamination is:

1. bright silver - acceptable

2. light straw - acceptable
3. dark straw - unacceptable
4. purple - unacceptable
5. any shade of blue - unacceptable
6. yellow – unacceptable
7. grey - unacceptable
8. white (may have loose powder) – unacceptable
9. brushed – unacceptable (welds that have been brushed before inspection
are can be rejected, regardless of color before brushing)

5.2 FILLER METALS AND ELECTRODES

Filler metals shall be selected based on specific base metals being welded, service
conditions, design requirements (load conditions, etc.), and other design or service
factors. The specific selection must be approved by the responsible M&P
organization prior to use. In addition, the following shall apply:
a) Filler and electrode materials used shall conform to the applicable AWS
specifications listed herein. Filler metals and electrodes purchased to
alternate specifications shall be allowed provided they meet the
minimum requirements of the specifications listed herein. Filler metals
shall be procured with delivery of a valid material test report (MTR).

b) Filler metals shall be manufactured by a high-quality (HQ) method

involving multiple melt cycles. In addition, the final melt cycle shall be
made under vacuum.

c) Wherever possible, filler metals designated as extra-low interstitial

(ELI), should be used.

d) Where the end product is to be used in a cryogenic application, then ELI

filler metals shall be used.

e) Weld filler metals shall be called out on the engineering drawing in the parts
list.
f) Non consumable tungsten and tungsten alloy electrodes for GTAW and
PAW shall be selected according to the process being used at the
direction of the responsible M&P organization. The electrode type and
size shall be specified on the WPS.
5.2.1 Control and Storage

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Welding electrodes and filler metals shall be stored in a clean, dry, and controlled
area that provides protection from contamination, physical damage, commingling of
alloys and loss of identification/traceability. Any form of electrodes or weld filler metal
which is damaged, dirty, exhibits oxidation/corrosion or has been contaminated with
water, oil, grease or any form of hydrocarbons shall not be used and shall be
disposed of in accordance with an appropriate disposal procedure. For JSC
operations, welding electrodes and filler materials shall be controlled in accordance
with SOP-004.5. Outside vendors shall provide control and storage according to the
applicable material specification or manufacturer's recommendation, whichever is
more rigid.
5.3 MECHANICAL PROPERTIES

Unless otherwise specified, minimum mechanical properties that determine an

acceptable weld qualification for titanium alloys shall be that as specified in AWS
B2.1. In addition, when qualifying a WPS using a titanium alloy not listed in AWS
B2.1 the diameter of the plunger (dimension “A” in Annex II of AWS B2.1) used
for the guided bend test shall not exceed 20T (10T radius). For the alloys listed in
Appendix C, use the bend radiuses shown in the table.

5.4 Welding Chambers and Trailing Gas Shielding

When an inert gas or vacuum chamber is used for welding or trailing torch shields
and/or a trailing or fixed gas purge assemblies are used, the specific equipment and
method shall be considered an essential variable during qualification of the WPS
and personnel qualifications.

6.0 PROCESS REQUIREMENTS

All weldments shall be fabricated according to the requirements of this process

specification and shall be performed using Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS)
that have been qualified in accordance with the requirements of Section 8.0 in
addition to that as detailed below. In addition, when qualifying a WPS for titanium
welding, the welding setup shall be considered an essential variable.

6.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL PROCESSES

6.1.1 Pre-weld Cleaning of Weld Joint Surfaces

Prior to welding, all weld joint surfaces within a minimum of ½” of the weld line shall
be cleaned in a manner shown to be adequate and repeatable in producing a surface
cleanliness level conducive to producing sound welds by a given weld process. The
specific process and procedural steps to carry out the process shall be part of the
procedure qualification activities and shall be appropriately detailed on the
qualification and procedure specification (PQR and WPS) documentation as well in
the production work instructions. Personnel shall be trained in these same methods
and process techniques.

6.1.2 Intermittent Welding

Applicable to all processes, unless otherwise specified, weld joints that are specified
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for intermittent welding shall have the ends of the parts, or departure from a straight
weld line (e.g., square corner, etc.), welded regardless of the interval of the weld.

6.1.3 Tooling and Fixturing

Weldments shall be fixtured with appropriate tooling as deemed necessary by the

fabricator. Tools and fixtures shall be constructed of materials that will not interfere
with the welding process nor damage or contaminate the hardware.

6.1.4 Temporary or Tack Welding

Temporary (includes the term “tack” welding) welding in areas of the hardware not
planned for welding or where the temporary weld will not be totally consumed by the
final weld, shall not be allowed. All temporary welds placed at or in a weld joint shall
be ground or feathered by welding appropriately to accommodate the final welding
process to achieve the expected deposit of sound weld metal. All temporary and
tack welding shall only be performed by a welder(s) whose qualifications are current
and applicable.

6.1.5 Welding Equipment

Equipment (e.g., power supplies, positioners, flowmeters, etc.) used for manual
welding operations need not have calibrated instrumentation (dials, gauges,
indicators, meters, etc.). However, reference indicating instrumentation (e.g., dials,
meters, gauges, etc.) shall be fully functional (i.e., useful output) and in good working
order. The equipment shall be capable of being used by a qualified welder, using a
qualified procedure, to produce sound and contaminant free welds. At the discretion
of the responsible M&P organization, specific equipment instrumentation and
metering devices may be calibrated to ensure repeatability of the process.
6.1.6 Welding Precision Cleaned Hardware (including tube preparation for
welding)

Operators must maintain cleanliness for precision-cleaned hardware during welding

into an assembly. The welding operation shall be performed in a dedicated Class
100,000 clean work area. This may require temporary tents over the weld area
and/or local monitors located in the area of welding to ensure the Class 100,000
environment is being met. Portable particle counters shall be located as close as
possible to the work area, so as to monitor local contaminants during tube
preparation and welding. All tools used in weld preparation shall be cleaned to the
visibly clean (VC) level per JPG 5322.1 and maintained clean (e.g. bagged in VC
clean bags when not in use).

Hardware that cannot be subsequently precision-cleaned shall implement an

approved method for protecting against system contamination during tube
preparation and welding. Consult the responsible M&P organization for approval
prior to welding. The installation and removal of physical barriers (e.g., plugs, etc.)
shall be tracked by a reliable method and independently verified. Exposed internal
surfaces of the tube shall be cleaned using a swab wetted with an approved solvent.
A positive backpressure shall be maintained as the plug is removed. Abrasives
including sandpaper or abrasive pads inside tubes or on unprotected surfaces shall
not be allowed.

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Tube cutters shall use a sharp blade, changed frequently. Cutting shall be performed
with minimal cutter pressure to aid in preventing particle generation. Tube facing
operations shall use vacuum to remove particulate. Facing operations shall be
performed away from the weld assembly area, to reduce particulate contamination
of the welding work area. Tube facing shall be performed without the use of cutting
oils, other fluids, lubricants or coolants. Abrasives, including sandpaper or abrasive
pads, shall not be used inside tubes or when unprotected internal surfaces are
exposed. After each tube preparation, and prior to welding, a high-velocity gas purge
shall be performed. The purge gas velocity shall be the maximum attainable using a
90-psig (minimum) source. The purge gas used during facing and welding shall meet
the hydrocarbon and particulate requirements for the system under assembly. The
purge gas shall be supplied in accordance with Section 5.1.
6.2 PROCESS SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

6.2.1 Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

Additional filler metal shall be used with the GTAW process unless it can be
demonstrated by weld qualification that weld cracking and other undesirable
metallurgical conditions will not exist in the finished weld made without filler metal
(autogenous weld). This method of welding shall be specified on an approved WPS.

6.2.2 Plasma Arc Welding

Additional filler metal shall be used with the PAW process unless it can be
demonstrated by weld qualification that weld cracking and other undesirable
metallurgical conditions will not exist in the finished weld made without filler metal
(autogenous weld). This method of welding shall be specified on an approved WPS.

6.2 PREHEATING

Preheat shall not exceed 600°F (~316°C) and shall be specified on the WPS. Actual
welding shall begin immediately after preheating has reached the temperature
specified on the WPS. Temperature indicating crayons (markers) shall not be used
to measure base or weld metal temperature.
6.3 INTERPASS TEMPERATURE

a. In weld joints between different base metal types and thickness, the higher
of the preheat requirements of the joint members shall apply.

b. Minimum interpass temperature during welding shall be the same as the

maximum preheat temperature specified in the welding procedure
specification and shall be maintained by the application of concurrent heat, if
necessary.
6.4 POST-WELD HEAT TREATMENT (PWHT)

Post-weld heat treatment shall be applied only when specified by the engineering
drawing and/or WPS and shall be performed after completion of welding. All PWHT
shall be performed according to SAE AMS-H-81200. Vibratory techniques shall not

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be used in place of thermal treatment. All weld inspections shall be applied as soon
as practical following all post weld heat treatment activities.
6.5 WELD REPAIRS AND WELDED REPAIRS TO BASE METAL

Two attempts shall be allowed to make a weld repair. If after the second attempt a
defect still exists, the condition shall be documented on an appropriate non-
conformance report (NCR) or discrepancy report (DR) form. All repair and rework
shall be performed using the WPS used for the original weld, a specific qualified
WPS for that repair. Rework and repairs shall meet all of the requirements of the
original drawing and any additional requirements documented in the WPS. Weld
rework and repair does not include the correction of dimensional or other
deficiencies of the groove/bevel preparation of weld joints by “buttering” or build up
provided the area corrected by welding is fully consumed in the final weld. Also, the
following requirements shall apply in the weld repair activity:
a. Mechanical Repairs. Defects shall be repaired by routing or machining the
weld metal to the extent needed to completely remove the defects.
Thermal gouging and cutting shall not be used. For groove welds, the
reinforcement shall not be machined past flush to the base metal. For fillet
welds, the final machined weld profile shall meet the applicable profile and
size requirements. In both cases, the repair shall be blended smoothly into
the unrepaired weld metal. All repairs shall be subjected to the same
visual, surface and subsurface inspections as the unrepaired weld.
Repairs requiring liquid penetrant inspection shall be etched in
accordance with PRC-5010 prior to inspection.

b. Weld Repairs. Defects shall be repaired by routing or machining the weld

metal to the extent needed to completely remove the defects. Thermal
gouging and cutting shall not be used. The final repair cavity shall be of a
configuration suitable for welding. Prior to welding, the excavation shall be
subjected to the same visual, surface and subsurface inspections as the
unrepaired weld. Excavations requiring liquid penetrant inspection shall be
etched in accordance with PRC-5010 prior to inspection. Weld repairs shall
be documented by the use of a weldment map or other record with sufficient
detail to ensure identification of the weldment, identification of repair
location(s), and type of defect. Repair welds shall be subjected to the same
visual, surface and subsurface inspections as the unrepaired weld.

c. Straightening. Welds or adjacent base metal which have been deformed by

the welding operation may be straightened using a fixture during a controlled
stress relief or anneal operation. Prior to any straightening operation(s) taking
place the responsible M&P organization shall be consulted. All straightening
operations shall be performed prior to any final inspection.

d. Base Metal Repairs. Repairs to base metal anomalies shall be brought to the
attention of the responsible M&P organization for consideration of cause,
prior to repair activities.
6.6 SURFACE DEGRADATION FROM CONTAMINANTS

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 PRC-0002 Rev. D

To prevent surface contaminants that can induce liquid and solid metal embrittlement,
stress corrosion, hydrogen embrittlement, or reduce fracture toughness from coming in
contact with the base material, the use of these substances on or with titanium is
prohibited:

1. Mercury
2. Cadmium
3. Silver
4. Gold
5. Hydrochloric Acid
6. Chlorinated Cutting Oils and Solvents
7. Fluorinated Hydrocarbons
8. Methyl Alcohol
9. Methylene Chloride

7.0 PROCESS VERIFICATION

Process verification shall consist of the inspections described in sections 7.1 to 7.3.
In addition, the manufacturer shall assure that fabrication activities are carried out in
a manner that meets the requirements of this process specification and verify the
following items at the appropriate time during fabrication activities.

a) The welding operator is certified for the specific welding operation prior to
welding.

b) The fit-up is in accordance with the engineering drawing prior to welding for
Class A and B Pressure Containing Components.

c) A WPS exists prior to welding.

d) Compliance with the WPS for essential variable ranges during welding.

e) The PWHT is in accordance with the assigned WPS after welding.

f) Weld one in-process control specimen at each of the following conditions:

1. Prior to welding the first production joint during each shift.
2. Upon changing from one certified machine setting to another.
3. Upon discovery of unsatisfactory system performance.
4. Specimens shall be visually inspected by an AWS Certified Welding
Inspector (CWI).

7.1 CERTIFICATION AND QUALIFICATION OF INSPECTION PERSONNEL

7.1.1 Visual Inspection

Personnel performing visual inspections of Class A, B and C welds shall be an AWS

CWI. The CWI certification must be current.
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7.1.2 Nondestructive Inspection

Personnel performing acceptance inspections of flight hardware (Class I, II, IIIW and
GSE – see Appendix C) shall be qualified and certified, at a minimum, to Level 2 in
accordance with NAS 410. Personnel performing acceptance inspections requiring
Special Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) shall also be qualified and certified for
Special NDE in accordance with NASA-STD-5009.
Personnel performing acceptance inspections of non-flight hardware (Class III,
STE/D, mockup, and facility hardware – see Appendix C) shall be qualified and
certified in accordance with either NAS 410 or SNT-TC-1A. Personnel making
accept/reject decisions shall, at a minimum, be certified to Level 2. Level 3 personnel
making accept/reject decisions shall have successfully completed a hands-on
practical examination equivalent to the examination required for Level 2. Level 1
personnel may perform acceptance inspections under the direct supervision of a
Level 2 but shall not make accept/reject decisions.
Formal qualification and certification is not required for personnel performing
engineering evaluation inspections.

Unless otherwise specified, all welds in a structure shall be subjected to the required
inspections for the applicable weld class or classes. All unconsumed temporary or
tack welds shall be placed where consumed by final weld and subjected to the level
of inspection required by the highest weld class specified in the design
documentation.

7.2 INSPECTION METHODS AND ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

7.2.1 General

Inspections shall be performed in accordance with a written procedure by

personnel certified in accordance with section 7.3.
7.2.2 Visual

Welds shall be visually inspected for conformance to the drawing requirements and
acceptance shall be in accordance with the applicable Class A, B or C acceptance
criteria in Appendix A or B.
7.2.3 Liquid Penetrant

a) Non-Flight Hardware: Liquid penetrant inspections shall be performed per

PRC- 6506. Unless otherwise specified, a fluorescent (Type I) Sensitivity
Level 3 or 4 penetrant shall be used for Class A welds and Class B welds
in pressurized components. Visible (Type II) penetrant may be used for
Class B welds in non- pressurized and structural components.
Acceptance shall be in accordance with the applicable Class A or B
acceptance criteria in Appendix A or B.
b) Flight Hardware: Liquid penetrant inspections shall be performed per
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PRC-6506. Unless otherwise specified, a fluorescent (Type I) Sensitivity

Level 3 or 4 penetrant shall be used. Acceptance shall be in accordance
with the applicable Class A or B acceptance criteria in Appendix A or B.
7.2.4 Radiographic

a) Non-Flight Hardware: Radiographic inspections shall be performed per

PRC-6503. Acceptance shall be in accordance with the applicable Class
A or B acceptance criteria in Appendix A or B. Gamma radiation sources
shall not be used unless approved by the NASA/JSC M&P engineering
organization. Approval of gamma radiation sources shall be based on
demonstration of radiographic sensitivity equivalent to that obtainable with
an X-ray source.
b) Flight Hardware: Radiographic inspections shall be performed per PRC-
6503. Acceptance shall be in accordance with the applicable Class A or B
acceptance criteria in Appendix A or B.

7.2.5 Ultrasonic

a) Non-Flight Hardware: Unless otherwise specified, ultrasonic inspections

and acceptance shall be performed per PRC-6510, Class A.

b) Flight Hardware: Ultrasonic inspections and acceptance shall be

performed per PRC-6510, Class A.

7.3 REQUIRED INSPECTIONS

Unless otherwise specified, all welds in a structure shall be subjected to the

required inspections for the applicable weld class or classes. Unconsumed
temporary or tack welds shall be subjected to the level of inspection required by
the highest weld class specified in the design documentation.

7.3.1 Class A
Class A welds require visual, surface and subsurface inspections. Surface
inspections shall be accomplished using the liquid penetrant method. Subsurface
inspections shall be accomplished using the radiographic method. In cases where
the weld configuration renders adequate radiographic inspection impractical, an
alternate inspection method shall be utilized as approved by the responsible M&P
Engineering authority. When ultrasonic inspection is selected and approved as an
alternate to radiographic inspection, the ultrasonic inspection shall be performed as
specified in section 7.2.5. When liquid penetrant is the only available option for
inspection and is selected and approved as an alternate to radiographic inspection,
the liquid penetrant inspection shall be performed as specified in section 7.2.3. For
multi- pass welds, inspections shall be performed on every pass.

7.3.2 Class B

Class B welds require visual and surface inspections. Surface inspections

shall be accomplished using the liquid penetrant method.

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7.3.3 Class C

Class C welds only require visual inspection.

8.0 PROCESS VERIFICATION

The WPS, PQR, and WPQ shall be prepared and retained as a permanent record
and made available upon request to the responsible M&P organization for review.
These procedures must contain, at a minimum, all of the essential welding variables
(procedure qualification variables, etc.), an identification of the welding equipment,
the pre-weld cleaning procedure (refer to Section 6.1.1) and include any pertinent
tooling information. One copy of the WPS shall be maintained in the vicinity of the
welding station and shall be readily accessible by the welders, inspectors,
supervision, and engineering.
8.1 PROCEDURE QUALIFICATION VARIABLES
Applicable to all processes, the process variables considered “essential” and
applicable to qualification of a welding processes/procedure shall be all those as
required by AWS B2.1 and to include the following:
a. A change from vertical downhill welding to vertical uphill or vice versa,
b. A change from a stringer to a weave bead and vice versa,
c. A change from multiple passes per side to a single pass per side, and vice
versa,
d. As deemed necessary by the responsible M&P organization, an
increase or decrease in any one or more of the variables considered
integral to the calculated heat input (i.e., current, voltage, and travel
speed) beyond that which was qualified. Where necessary, the
procedure shall include weld tests that define the tolerance ranges of
specifically identified variables,
e. For keyhole welding techniques, a change from keyhole to non-
keyhole and vice versa.
f. WPSs qualified outside of a weld chamber using trailing shields and
gas purge assemblies may also be used for welding in a weld
chamber, but not vice versa.
g. Any deviations or waivers regarding the use of this process specification shall
be requested in writing. This request shall be directed to the responsible M&P
organization with the appropriate justification and rationale. A written
response will be provided upon such a request.

8.2 WELDING PROCEDURE SPECIFICATION

A Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) is a qualified written working procedure

that must be developed before beginning production for each unique weld type to
be produced. Qualification support documentation in the form of a Procedure
Qualification Record (PQR) shall be maintained on file to show proof of
process/procedure capability using the WPS. The WPS shall be traceable by means
of serialized nomenclature and shall show traceability to the applicable PQR(s). The
WPS used for production welding shall meet the requirements of AWS B2.1 and
shall be certified by the responsible M&P organization at the operating facility, prior
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to use in production. If a qualified WPS does not exist prior to welding of production
parts, one shall be qualified according to AWS B2.1 “Standard Test Weldments” at
a minimum. “Prequalified” or “Standard Welding Procedure Specifications” shall not
be permitted for production use on Class A or B welds made on flight hardware.
8.3 PROCEDURE QUALIFICATION RECORD

A Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) is documentation to support the welding

procedure specification to show proof of process/procedure capability. A PQR shall
be unique and traceable, by means of serialized nomenclature. The PQR shall be
process specific and specific to a unique weld type. Data required in the PQR shall
include detailed descriptions of the test coupon configurations and joint designs, all
pertinent material specifications, all pertinent essential process variables used, all
destructive and nondestructive test results from the qualification sample set, and all
required certifications from the approving organization. The PQR shall be approved
by the responsible M&P organization at the operating facility.

8.4 WELDER PERFORMANCE QUALIFICATION

A Welder Performance Qualification (WPQ) is documentation that shows that a

welder has been tested in accordance with AWS B2.1 and shown competent to
produce a sound weld for a specific welding process/base material/filler
metal/position combination.
8.5 DEVIATIONS AND WAIVERS

Any deviations or waivers regarding the use of this process specification shall be
requested in writing by the outside vendor. This request shall be directed to the
responsible M&P organization with the appropriate justification and rationale. A
written response will be provided upon such a request.

9.0 TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION OF PERSONNEL

9.1 TRAINING
Welder training (when necessary) should consist of practice using the facility
welding equipment and a specific WPS to demonstrate proficiency, under the
supervision of a qualified/certified welder. Specific development of an appropriate
training program shall be the responsibility of the vendor.

9.2 WELDER QUALIFICATION

Welding shall be performed by a welder qualified and certified in accordance with

AWS B2.1. Sufficiently detailed records shall be maintained to demonstrate
continuity of performance qualification on a semi-annual (6 month) basis.
9.2.1 Additional Qualification Variables

When qualifying personnel for titanium welding, the welding setup shall be
considered an essential variable. When qualifying personnel for titanium welding by
the guided bend test method, titanium alloys not listed in AWS B2.1, Appendix C1
or C2, the plunger diameter (dimension “A” in Annex II of AWS B2.1) shall not
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exceed 20T (10T radius). For the alloys listed in Appendix C, use the bend radiuses
shown in the table.
10.0 DEFINITIONS

The following definitions (and associated acronyms) shall apply to this entire
document:

1. Ductility – The ability of the material to be plastically deformed by

elongation prior to fracture.
2. Procedure Qualification Record (PQR) – a detailed written record of
the process that has been qualified. The record shall include all the
applicable inspection and tests that were conducted and a record of the
results of those tests. The PQR shall be signed (certified) by the
responsible organization overseeing the welding operations.
3. Repair – an action taken to correct a production deficiency in the
hardware that results in the hardware not meeting the original design
but is fully functional and serviceable as intended by the design.
4. Rework – an action taken to correct a production deficiency in the
hardware that results in the hardware meeting the original design and is
fully functional and serviceable as intended by the design.
5. Toughness – A property of a material capable of absorbing energy by
plastic deformation. Low energy absorption is considered brittle and
high energy absorption is considered ductile.
6. Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) – a detailed written
procedure that is used by a welder to ensure that the execution of the
qualified process is carried out as intended.

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Appendix A
WELD ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA
A1.0 GENERAL

If any of the acceptance criteria given below conflict with the engineering drawing
requirements, then the stricter criteria shall apply. The symbol ‘T’ shall equal the
nominal base metal thickness of the thinnest component in the welded connection.
The weld length shall be the distance from end to end of the weld deposit or to a
sharp change in weld direction where the angle of change in any direction is greater
than 30° with a radius of less than 1/2”. Unless otherwise stated, the criteria in this
Appendix shall apply to all weld classes. Alternate and/or additional acceptance
criteria, when applicable, shall be specified in the design documentation.
Brushing of titanium welds is not allowed prior to visual and surface inspection.

Table A1.0. Acceptance Criteria

ITEM DISCONTINUITY TYPE Class A Class B Class C

1.0 CRACKS IN THE WELD None allowed None allowed None allowed
OR BASE METAL
2.0 OVERLAP (COLDLAP) None allowed None allowed None allowed
3.0 INCOMPLETE FUSION None allowed None allowed None allowed
4.0 INCOMPLETE None allowed None allowed None allowed
PENETRATION(1)
5.0 POROSITY –
SURFACE(2)
5.1 Maximum Individual 0.25T or 0.030” whichever is 0.33T or 0.060” whichever is 0.50T or 0.090” whichever is
Size(3 & 4) less less less
5.2 Minimum Spacing 8x the size of the larger 4x the size of the larger 2x the size of the larger
adjacent pore adjacent pore adjacent pore
5.3 Maximum Accumulated 1T or 0.12” whichever is less 1.33T or 0.24” whichever is 2T or 0.36” whichever is less
Length in any 3” of less
Weld(5)
6.0 POROSITY –
SUBSURFACE(2)
6.1 Maximum Individual 0.33T or 0.060” whichever is 0.50T or 0.090” whichever is Not Applicable
Size(3 & 4) less less
6.2 Minimum Spacing 4x the size of the larger 2x the size of the larger Not Applicable
adjacent pore adjacent pore
6.3 Maximum Accumulated 1.33T or 0.24” whichever is 2T or 0.36” whichever is less Not Applicable
Length in any 3” of less
Weld(5)
7.0 INCLUSIONS(2)
7.1 Maximum Individual 0.33T or 0.060” whichever is 0.50T or 0.090” whichever is Not Applicable
Size(3 & 4) less less
7.2 Minimum Spacing 4x the size of the larger 2x the size of the larger Not Applicable
adjacent inclusion adjacent inclusion
7.3 Maximum Accumulated 1.33T or 0.24” whichever is 2T or 0.36” whichever is less Not Applicable
Length in any 3” of less
Weld(5)
8.0 UNDERCUT
8.1 Full Length of Weld, 0.002” 0.015T or 0.002”, whichever is 0.025T or 0.002”, whichever is
Maximum Depth greater greater

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ITEM DISCONTINUITY TYPE Class A Class B Class C

8.2 Maximum Individual 0.07T or 0.03”, whichever is 0.10T or 0.05”, whichever is 0.20T or 0.07”, whichever is
Defect less less less
8.3 Maximum Accumulated 0.20” 0.60” 1.00”
Length in any 3” of
Weld(5)
9.0 FACE OR ROOT
UNDERFILL – GROOVE
WELDS
9.1 Full Length of Weld, 0.005” 0.015T or 0.005”, whichever is 0.025T or 0.005”, whichever is
Maximum Depth greater greater
9.2 Maximum Individual 0.07T or 0.03”, whichever is 0.07T or 0.03”, whichever is 0.07T or 0.03”, whichever is
Defect less less less
9.3 Maximum Accumulated 0.20” 0.60” 1.00”
Length in any 3” of
Weld(5)
10.0 CRATERS
10.1 Maximum Depth 0.20T or 0.03”, whichever is 0.20T or 0.05”, whichever is 0.20T or 0.05”, whichever is
less less less
10.2 Maximum Length 1T 1T 2T
11.0 ARC STRIKES AND Unacceptable Unacceptable Unacceptable
GOUGE MARKS
12.0 WELD
REINFORCEMENT -
MANUAL WELDS
12.1 Material < 0.125” 1T maximum No stated requirement No stated requirement
12.2 Material 0.125” to 1T or 0.100” maximum, No stated requirement No stated requirement
0.510” whichever is greater
12.3 Material > 0.510” 0.170” maximum No stated requirement No stated requirement
13.0 PEAKING 3 degrees max 5 degrees max No stated requirement
14.0 MISMATCH BETWEEN T/10 or 1/8”, whichever is less T/5 or 3/16”, whichever is less No stated requirement
MEMBERS AFTER
WELDING
15.0 FILLET WELDS
15.1 Weld Profiles See Fig. A2.0 See Fig. A2.0 See Fig. A2.0
15.2 Weld Size (Size Stated As shown by welding symbol As shown by welding symbol As shown by welding symbol
on Drawing)
15.3 Minimum Weld Size 1.5T 1.5T 1.5T
(Size Not Stated on
Drawing) – Single Side
Fillet
15.4 Minimum Weld Size 1.0T 1.0T 1.0T
(Size Not Stated on
Drawing) – Double
Side Fillet
15.5 Maximum Weld Size –
Size Stated on Drawing
15.6 Material ≤ 0.090” 2.0x 2.0x 2.0x
15.7 Material 0.091” – 1.5x 1.5x 1.5x
0.156”
15.8 Material 0.157” – 1.25x 1.25x 1.25x
0.750”
15.9 Material  0.751” 1.1x 1.1x 1.1x
16.0 DISCOLORATION(6)(7)
16.1 Bright Silver Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable
16.2 Silver Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable
16.3 Light Straw Acceptable Acceptable Acceptable
16.4 Dark Straw Reject Acceptable Acceptable
16.5 Bronze Reject Reject Reject
16.6 Brown Reject Reject Reject
16.7 Violet Reject Reject Reject
16.8 Green Reject Reject Reject
16.9 Any Shade of Blue Reject Reject Reject

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ITEM DISCONTINUITY TYPE Class A Class B Class C

16.10 Gray Reject Reject Reject
16.11 White Reject Reject Reject
17.0 LOOSE OXIDATION Reject Reject Reject
AND SCALE
(1) Applicable to groove welds only.
(2) For all discontinuities approaching a free edge (See Figure A1.0), the closest edge of the discontinuity shall have clearance from the
free edge  3X the largest of its dimensions or  2X the nominal weld throat, whichever is greater.
(3) Adjacent rounded discontinuities separated by  1X the length of the longer discontinuity shall be considered a single discontinuity.
(4) Adjacent elongated discontinuities separated by  3X the diameter of the larger discontinuity, shall be considered a single discontinuity.
(5) For weld lengths less than 3”, the total sum of indications shall be an equivalent proportion of the weld length.
(6) Refer to AWS G2.4, Figure 7, for weld color examples.
(7) Welds that have been brushed before inspection can be rejected regardless of color before brushing.

C = Clearance spacing between closest edge of discontinuity and free edge

FIGURE A1.0 – DISCONTINUITY APPROACHING A

FREE EDGE

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(1) Desirable Fillet Welds (2) Acceptable Fillet Welds

Note: Convexity of a weld or individual surface bead with dimension Width shall not exceed the value of the following table.

Width of Weld Face or Individual Surface Bead Maximum

Convexity Allowed Width ≤ 5/16”
1/16”
Width > 5/16” to Width < 1.00” 1/8”
Width ≥ 1.00” 3/16”

Insufficient Excessive Excessive Overlap Insufficient Leg Incomplete

Throat Convexity Undercut Fusion

(3) Unacceptable Fillet Weld Profiles

(4) Acceptable Groove Weld Profiles in Butt Welds Note: Reinforcement shall not exceed 1/8”.

Excessive Convexity Insufficient Throat Excessive Undercut Overlap

(5) Unacceptable Groove Weld Profiles in Butt Joints

Figure A2.0 – ACCEPTABLE AND UNACCEPTABLE WELD PROFILES

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Appendix B

Hardware Classification

Hardware
Classificatio
n

Class I Flight hardware - refers to any hardware acceptable for space

flight use

Class II Ground tests or training in a hazardous environment

Class IIIW Hardware used in water immersion training

GSE Ground Support Equipment

Class III “Non-Flight hardware” refers to any hardware acceptable for

use in non- hazardous training or displays

STE/D Special Test Equipment/Devices used in facilities (buildings

and related accessories), mockup mission equipment and
engineering prototype and development hardware.

1E Any combination of hardware and software that is developed

and operated to answer a scientific or engineering question
that cannot be addressed in a terrestrial environment.
Operating this hardware does not provide mission critical
functions, and hazards are eliminated or controlled such that
the safety of the crew, the space vehicle, or launch vehicle are
not compromised.

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Appendix C

Grade 1 = CP Ti (min. 20 ksi YS)

Grade 2 = CP Ti (min. 40 ksi YS)
Grade 3 = CP Ti (min. 55 ksi YS)
*Grade 4 = CP Ti (min. 70 ksi YS)
Grade 5 = 6Al-4V Ti
Grade 9 = 3Al-2.5V Ti
Grade 23 = 6Al-4V ELI Ti
Grade 38 = 4Al-2.5V-1.5Fe Ti

*Use Mandrel Diameter A and Bend Radius B given for Grade 3.

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