ISO 3834-4: Elementary Quality Requirements for Fusion Welding by EV Group China

Scope of Application

This technical standard defines the basic (elementary) quality requirements for fusion welding processes for metal products. The principles are applicable both in specialized welding workshops and during installation work at customer sites. EV Group China recommends using these standards to ensure the minimum required level of quality control for welded joints.

Normative References

To implement the provisions of this standard, it is necessary to rely on the current editions of the following documents:

• ISO 3834-1:2005 — Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials — Part 1: Criteria for the selection of the appropriate level of quality requirements.
• ISO 3834-5:2005 — Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials — Part 5: Documents with which it is necessary to conform to claim conformity to the quality requirements of ISO 3834-2, ISO 3834-3 or ISO 3834-4.

Review of Requirements and Contracts

EV Group China specialists emphasize the importance of preliminary analysis of project documentation. The manufacturer is obliged to:

• Examine the technical specifications and the contract before starting production.
• Ensure that the available project information is complete and free of ambiguities.
• Confirm the availability of resources to perform the work within the established deadlines.
• Agree with the customer on any deviations in technology or cost that arise during the production preparation process.

Subcontracting Management

When involving third-party organizations (subcontractors) for welding, heat treatment, or non-destructive testing, EV Group China establishes a strict protocol for the transfer of responsibility:

• All technical documentation is provided to the contractor in full.
• The subcontractor is responsible for compliance with quality standards, similar to the responsibility of the prime manufacturer.
• The manufacturer is obliged to audit the subcontractor’s ability to meet the specified technical requirements.

Personnel and Qualification

The quality of a weld directly depends on the competence of the personnel. Welders and operators must hold valid certificates of conformity in accordance with relevant standards. The qualification control of non-destructive testing personnel is carried out in strict accordance with ISO 3834-5.

Equipment and Consumables

A mandatory condition is maintaining welding equipment in good working order with regular technical maintenance. Consumables must be stored in conditions that prevent degradation and used strictly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Control and Quality Records

The quality management system includes mandatory monitoring at all stages of production. Identified non-conformities must be immediately isolated to prevent the use of defective components. Records (quality records) must be kept in the company’s archive for at least 5 years.