May a qualified WPS for CJP groove weld be used to weld PJP grooves?

A qualified Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) for Complete Joint Penetration (CJP) groove welds can indeed be adapted for Partial Joint Penetration (PJP) grooves, but certain conditions must be met to ensure quality and integrity of the weld. One of those conditions involves demonstrating that the designated weld size is appropriate for the PJP through specific testing.

When a WPS is qualified under CJP, it does not automatically apply to PJP if the size and expectations for the weld are different. By conducting three macroetch cross-section specimens, you can verify that the actual welded joint meets the necessary performance criteria for the PJP weld. This testing provides visual evidence of the weld's internal structure and ensures there is adequate penetration and fusion, thus validating that the WPS is still valid when adapted to PJP.

Other options suggest either unrestricted use, outright disallowance, or the need for requalification, which do not align with the established welding guidelines. The requirement to demonstrate weld size through macroetch testing adds a layer of assurance, focusing on the quality and safety of the welding process when transitioning from CJP to PJP applications.