What is the purpose of a welding procedure specification (WPS)?

A welding procedure specification (WPS) serves the critical function of providing detailed instructions for welding processes. It outlines essential parameters such as the specific type of welding to be used, the materials being welded, the joint design, the required preheat and interpass temperature, the type of filler material, as well as the appropriate welding technique. This ensures that welds are performed consistently and meet the necessary safety and quality standards.

The importance of the WPS cannot be overstated, as it is a cornerstone in maintaining quality control in welding operations. It helps welders to understand the exact requirements for their tasks and minimizes the risk of defects in the welds due to improper techniques or settings.

The other options, while related to welding and metalwork, do not define the purpose of a WPS. A summary of welding history does not serve the practical need of guiding current welding practices, guidelines for cutting steel are not pertinent to the specifications for welding, and defining the composition of welding materials, although important, does not encompass the full directive and operational details that a WPS provides for executing welding tasks properly.