The Welding Panel focuses on research, development, and implementation of the technologies and efficiencies focused on welding and allied processes, including weld joint preparation, forming, post weld heat treatment and inspection methods.

NSRP’s major focus areas that map to the Welding Technology Panel are:

• Welding and other material joining technologies.
• Inspection methods that may be used to determine the acceptance of a weld.
• Pre/post welding process technologies (i.e. PWHT and other processes).

In addition to the NSRP major focus areas, the Welding Panel will focus more specifically in the following areas:

• Investigate technology to improve welding productivity.
• Investigate technology to improve welding quality.
• Research in reducing distortion and residual stress.
• Technology for weld processes.
• Technology for welding procedures.
• Technology for welding equipment, power sources, end effectors, and delivery mechanisms.
• Technology for welding inspection.
• Development of welding filler materials and gases.
• Research for base material developments for welding efficiency, plate, pipe, castings, forgings).
• Software for weld data collection, weld processes, weld procedures.
• Tools and fixtures for both material preparation, fitting and welding.
• Research in design details for adequate ship performance and weld producibility.
• Support new technology for ship hull construction and pipe systems.
• Robotic applications for ship construction.
• Support all welding technology that might eventually lead to a future development even though there is no immediate application.
• Guidance for welding engineering development.
• Guidance for welder training for production.
• Research methods to reduce rework.
• Investigate process limitations and capabilities.