Australian Welding December 2018 (Q4)

AUSTRALIAN 1

WELDING

Maxcon Industries Wins

2018 Fabricator of the Year Page 10

2018:

Year In Review Page 16

2019:

Industry Outlook Page 38

Q4 | December 2018 Official Journal of Weld Australia www.weldaustralia.com.au

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Australian Welding: December 2018

Weld Australia’s Value Proposition

Weld Australia is the peak industry body, representing the welding profession in Australia.

Our members include individuals and companies in almost every facet of Australian industry, making a significant contribution to the economy.

Weld Australia is the Australian representative member of the International Institute of Welding (IIW).

Our mission is to represent the interests of our members and safeguard the public.

We do this by ensuring the integrity of in-service welds, and promoting the use of best practice technology and quality systems.

HowWeld WeldAustralia AustraliaDelivers DeliversValues Value to How to Members Members Network

Learning

We provide a network for the exchange of ideas and the sharing of resources.

Technology Transfer

We facilitate technology transfer from research institutions and overseas markets.

We deliver pathways for learning.

Technical Solutions

We offer specialist technical solutions on all welding and materials related issues.

Voice

We are the voice of industry to promote awareness of welding to decision makers.

Certification We are an internationally accredited certification body.

Weld Australia Contacts National Office

Qualification & Certification

Editorial Submissions

Building 3, Level 3, Suite 5 20 Bridge Street Pymble, NSW 2073 (PO Box 197 Macquarie Park BC NSW 1670) T: +61 (0)2 8748 0100 E: info@weldaustralia.com.au

Paolo Corronca T: +61 (0)438 012 099 E: p.corronca@weldaustralia.com.au

Sally Wood T: +61 (0)434 442 687 E: sally@wordly.com.au

Chief Executive Officer

Marketing & Advertising

Geoff Crittenden T: +61 (0)2 8748 0100 E: g.crittenden@weldaustralia.com.au

Donna South T: +61 (0)2 8748 0130 E: d.south@weldaustralia.com.au

Training Paul James T: +61 (0)2 8748 0150 E: p.james@weldaustralia.com.au

Subscription to Australian Welding is a Weld Australia member benefit included in annual membership fees. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied in any form without the written permission of the Weld Australia.

Weld Australia and its agents are not responsible for statements or opinions expressed by contributors in this publication, which are not necessarily those of the Weld Australia. Publication of any advertisement does not constitute endorsement by the Weld Australia of any product, nor warrant its suitability.

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Contents: December 2018

Contents 10

Maxcon Industries Wins 2018 Fabricator of the Year Award

12

ASC Develops New Welding Technique

16

2018 Year In Review

A Message From Weld Australia’s CEO Inside the Industry Breaking News Maxcon Industries Wins 2018 Fabricator of the Year ASC Develops New Welding Technique Naval Shipbuilding College Officially Open 2018 Year In Review 2018 Year In Review Member Events Industry Events National Manufacturing Summit Training & Certification Advanced Welder Training Centres Industry Partnerships The Changing Face of Australian Standards Weld Australia Industry Group Activities What Weld Australia Members Have To Say 2019 Industry Outlook 2019 Industry Outlook Weld Australia’s Strategic Plan Inside Weld Australia Meet Weld Australia’s President: David Lake Member Directory Upcoming Events 2019 Training Calendar

4 6 10 12 14

16 18 20 22 23 26 28 30 32 34

38 42 44 46 49 50

About Weld Australia

42

2019 Industry Outlook: Weld Australia’s Strategic Plan

A membership-based organisation, Weld Australia represents Australia’s welding profession. Our primary goal is to ensure that the Australian welding industry remains locally and globally competitive, now and into the future. Weld Australia is the Australian representative of the International Institute of Welding.

Visit: www.weldaustralia.com.au.

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Australian Welding: December 2018

A Message From Weld Australia’s CEO “

Weld Australia is committed to ensuring that no Australian lives are lost through an accident caused by non-compliant welding, without causing undue regulatory burden on industry.”

Geoff Crittenden Chief Executive Officer, Weld Australia

I recently received an email from a Weld Australia member bemoaning the quality of welders in Australia and the loss of the status of licensed welder. The member wanted to know what Weld Australia is doing to rectify the situation.

This is not an uncommon complaint among Weld Australia members.

When I first took on the role of CEO of Weld Australia, one of my first tasks was to travel around the country, meeting with members to identify their key challenges. I quickly discovered that one of the overriding concerns of members is the competency of welders.

Only last month, the members of our Power Generation Industry Group expressed their concerns over this same issue. Many of these members are finding the shortage of skilled pressure vessel welders a major issue during plant shutdowns.

Coincidentally, in a recent meeting I had with Senator the Hon Doug Cameron, Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Apprenticeships, we discussed the very same issue.

Senator Cameron expressed his

regret at the disappearance of the status of licensed welder.

The most concerning aspect of the situation is that the lack of a mandated licensing or certification system for welding in Australia is a major threat to public safety.

Over the past 12 months, I have been shocked at the number of unsafe steel structures reported by members. The primary cause of these safety concerns has been welding that is not fit for purpose and does not comply with recognised international and Australian Standards.

Australian Standards are as good, if not better, than anywhere else in the world. The problem is that very few Australian Standards are supported by regulation or legislation and are therefore only applied on a voluntary basis. Without any compulsion to manufacture or procure products to a recognised Standard, companies take the lowest cost option which is often detrimental to public safety.

When product is inspected, and found to be non-compliant, many refuse to accept responsibility for

rectifying the structure, opting instead to take the risk or trying to pass on liability to another part of the supply chain.

Some of Australia’s largest companies no longer apply Australian Standards. BHP, for instance, no longer specifies AS/NZS 1554 for new mine infrastructure. Instead, BHP has opted to specify AWS D1.1. This is a much cheaper Standard with which to comply. Under AWS D1.1, BHP is able to use local (rather than Australian) inspectors to certify the quality of components fabricated offshore in countries such as China.

Not only is BHP sending fabrication work—and therefore Australian jobs—offshore, they do not apply local Australian Standards that confer a higher degree of quality control and, therefore, safety.

When I appeared before the Senate Inquiry into the Future of Australia’s Steel Industry, I was asked by the Hon Senator Kim Carr whether fabricated steel imported into Australia that did not comply with Australian regulations was deliberately circumventing

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A Message From Weld Australia’s CEO

regulations. I had to reply that there are, in fact, no regulations. What this means is that the Australian public is being placed at unnecessary risk.

By comparison, in Europe and North America, it is compulsory that all welding is carried out by a qualified and certified welder.

Governments for the AWTCs—is encouraging me to believe that the various levels of government are becoming more aware of the importance of welding certification and qualification, and the potential risk to public safety that exists without them.

This is why Weld Australia looked internationally for an appropriate Standard that would provide a benchmark for welder competency in Australia. We had two options: AS 2980 or ISO 9606. In consultation with our members, particularly major asset managers, we settled on ISO 9606 Qualification testing of welders - Fusion welding.

Over the last 12 months, we have secured over $4.3 million in both State and Federal Government funding for the establishment of five AWTCs across the nation. It is expected that even more will be established over the next year.

Recent feedback I’ve had from various members of the Federal Shadow Cabinet has also been extremely positive.

ISO 9606 is a simple test that assesses welding competency according to a specific weld procedure, based on a practical acceptance criteria. It is the only Standard in the world which is accepted in both Europe and America, and is the minimum requirement for working on rolling stock, defence and infrastructure projects.

We are further encouraged by the success that the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) specification has had. This specification mandates AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification for all pre-qualified fabricators and AS/NZS ISO 9606 certification for all welders employed on structural steelwork (such as that in bridges) for New South Wales Government projects.

Having decided on this strategy, we acquired an online system that would help us manage the system of qualifying and certifying welders to ISO 9606: the Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR). The purpose of the AWCR is to act as a de-facto licensing system in the absence of Government support.

In conjunction with TAFE NSW and Lincoln Electric, Weld Australia provided training, qualification and certification services (including registering welders on the AWCR) for the WestConnex M4 East and New M5 Motorway projects earlier this year. This is a direct result of the RMS recognising the importance of welding compliance to Australian Standards.

Weld Australia is committed to ensuring that no Australian lives are lost through an accident caused by non-compliant welding, without causing undue regulatory burden on industry. As such, in 2019, the aim of Weld Australia is to have the AWCR process brought into legislation so that it becomes compulsory for all welders in Australia to be certified to welding procedures under AS/NZS ISO 9606.

Until recently, I believed this to be more of a vision (or flight of fancy), rather than a potential reality. However, the success of our Advanced Welder Training Centres (AWTCs)—and the support we have received from both State and Federal

In 2019, it is our intention—and one of our primary objectives—to have welding qualifications and certifications formally recognised in legislation. We believe that this can be achieved through relatively minor changes in procurement and WorkSafe legislation.

All the work Weld Australia is undertaking is focused on ensuring compliance with Australian Standards. After all, it is these Standards which make Australia a safer place to live.

To ensure that welding qualifications and certifications are formally

“

To achieve this, we must all support the Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR). I implore all Weld Australia members to get behind this important initiative.

Register on the AWCR. Ensure your employees and subcontractors are registered and certified via the AWCR. Weld Australia needs your support to ensure the status of licensed welder is reintroduced to Australia.”

recognised in legislation, we must all support the AWCR. I implore all Weld Australia members to get behind this important initiative. Register on the AWCR. Ensure your employees and subcontractors are registered and certified via the AWCR. Weld Australia needs your support to ensure the status of licensed welder is reintroduced to Australia.

Thank You and Warmest Wishes I would like to thank all those members who have contributed so much to Weld Australia this year. There has been a noticeable improvement in the number of technical visits and events held by our state divisions. In particular, my thanks go to the hard-working members of all our local committees.

I would also like to thank your Councillors who commit a significant proportion of their free time to council matters. I thank them for their advice, commitment and practical help. And finally, I would like to thank all our staff and support team for their hard work, enthusiasm and dedicated support throughout what has been an extraordinarily successful year.

Next year, we have an exciting range of initiatives on the horizon, which will positively impact the welding community in Australia and allow us to strengthen and grow our industry.

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Australian Welding: December 2018

Breaking News Shipbuilders Commence Construction of First Offshore Patrol Vessel Australia’s historic shift to continuous naval shipbuilding began in November with construction starting on a new modern fleet of Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). In a major boost for local jobs and advanced manufacturing, Luerssen Australia and ASC welded the first steel for the first of 12 OPVs for the Royal Australian Navy. The first two OPVs will be constructed at the Osborne Naval Shipyards in South Australia by ASC, with the Australian steel cut in Western Australia by Civmec.

Luerssen Australia Chairman, Tim Wagner, said it was a great honour to be responsible for the delivery of the SEA1180 program and to be partnering with great companies like ASC, Civmec, Saab Australia, L3, Taylor Bros and Penske.

“This is a momentous day both for Luerssen Australia and Australia’s naval shipbuilding sector; a partnership with the Australian Government and the local industry that points to a bright future,” Wagner said. “We are proud to be part of this nation’s shipbuilding capability, and to ensure that German design and technology can be married with the best of Australian manufacturing and ingenuity.”

ASC Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Stuart Whiley, said Australia’s shipbuilding capability has been built up over the past 10 years on the Air Warfare Destroyer program, which is delivering the Navy’s most potent naval surface vessels. “Today, the highly skilled ASC shipbuilders commence their second surface shipbuilding project and Australia embarks on continuous naval shipbuilding for decades to come,” Whiley said.

Thales Supports UniSA to Research the Future of Anti-Submarine Warfare Multinational defence industry leader, Thales will sponsor a PhD at the University of South Australia’s Behaviour Brain Body Research Centre. The PhD will research advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its application to the future of anti-submarine warfare.

The research is a joint UK-Australia initiative that will help to optimise advanced AI within complex maritime combat systems in support of human operators. The results from the research will be integrated into spiral capability improvements for Thales’ high-performance sonar solutions. Key to the research project will be combat systems operators and their well-being. While systems benefit from increasing levels of automation, understanding the impact on operators, their behaviour, fatigue and sleep patterns is essential.

The goal of the Thales sponsored PhD at UniSA’s Behaviour Brain Body Research Centre will be to find ways to ensure that as increased levels of autonomy and automation are introduced into service, the operator remains central in the maritime mission system.

Thales Australia CEO, Chris Jenkins, said the research is another step in a long-term program of collaboration and co-development of world-leading sonar solutions for both surface ships and submarines. “We have been working closely with the UK in the area of sensor development for sonar arrays for over ten years,” said Jenkins. “This collaboration between Thales and UniSA will extend our collaboration into inboard systems.”

Local Jobs First Commissioner Appointed The Victorian Minister for Industry and Employment, the Hon Ben Carroll, recently announced the appointment of Don Matthews as the inaugural Local Jobs First Commissioner. The Commissioner will advocate for businesses, workers, apprentices, trainees and cadets, and will also oversee compliance of local content and workforce commitments.

Matthews is a highly regarded senior executive from the manufacturing industry and was, until recently, the Executive Director of the Industry Capability Network.

He has held several senior roles in industry, including Chief Operating Officer at Carter Holt Harvey, and was a board member of the Australian Industry Group.

Image: Luerssen’s OPV80 design for Sea 1180. Image courtesy of Luerssen.

The Local Jobs First Bill was passed in August 2018, ensuring that all Victorian Government departments and agencies must apply local jobs first for contracts valued at $1 million or more in regional Victoria, or $3 million or more in metropolitan Melbourne. It also requires mandated job opportunities be created for apprentices, trainees and cadets on projects worth over $20 million.

Lasting Connections

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Inside the Industry: Breaking News

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Australian Welding: December 2018

Breaking News New $8.39 million Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials The new Australian Research Council (ARC) Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM), led by Swinburne Univesity Distinguished Professor Chris Berndt, will be one of the largest training centres of its kind in Australia, delivering commercial benefits for industry.

The Centre was recently awarded ARC funding of $4,889,410, over five years, to be matched by partner contributions to a total value of more than $8.39 million.

A Core Need for Manufacturing Surface engineering for advanced materials is a core need in all manufacturing sectors, and controls the efficiency, productivity and sustainability of Australian industry. Bringing together research leaders across all career stages, the Centre will aspire to provide pathways for job creation and a high quality workforce in manufacturing.

The project will target the training of early career researchers in an industrial context. SEAM will integrate industry-university cooperation for applied training within an industrial setting. The Centre is designed to be the nexus for an international collaborative network.

“This is the first training Centre of its kind,” said Professor Berndt. “It will cover a spectrum of important research themes and applications including biomaterials, graphene layering, high temperature coatings, laser metal deposition for materials repair and Industry 4.0 manufacturing processes; ranging from thin films to thick coatings and additive layered materials.”

Industry Partnerships Swinburne University will lead the Centre, in partnership with the University of South Australia and RMIT University. Thirteen core industry partners, together with another 13 industry organisations, professional bodies and research organisations will support SEAM

Image: Restoration of Gear Castings at LaserBond.

through intellectual input, knowledge sharing and staffstudent exchanges.

Weld Australia is just one of the industry partners that will provide in-kind support, including access to resources and expert advice. Some of the other industry partners include the CSIRO, DMTC, Materials Australia, the Australian Corrosion Association, and Victoria University at Wellington.

Weld Australia member, LaserBond will also support the Centre. LaserBond’s Engineering Manager, Dr Thomas Schlaefer will act as a partner investigator.

According to Wayne Hooper (CEO, LaserBond), “The formation of the Centre recognises the importance of surface engineering with advanced materials in the improvement of productivity, efficiency and sustainability in Australian and global industries. Laser cladding is a major technology in the application of such materials.”

“Participation with the Centre gives LaserBond further access to high level researchers and research projects as well as providing a potential future source for trained specialist graduate and post graduate employees to help drive the company’s growth. It is recognition of LaserBond’s advanced technology and knowledge in the application of surface engineering, and will assist in raising the company’s international profile,” said Hooper.

ARC Chief Executive Officer, Professor Sue Thomas, welcomed the funding, which was made possible via the ARC Industrial Transformation Research Program (ITRP). Professor Thomas said the funding will support research innovation in Australia that is targeted to areas that will make a difference to Australians, and lead to tangible outcomes and economic benefits.

Image: Distinguished Professor Chris Berndt will lead the ARC Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials.

“This $46.9 million for the 2018 round of ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs and Training Centres will encourage important research partnerships between university-based researchers and with industry to address ‘real-world’ challenges,” said Professor Thomas.

Breaking News

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More than $12 million Invested to Develop Innovative Technologies Five Australian businesses have been awarded contracts with a combined value of more than $12 million to further develop their innovative technologies to support the Australian Defence Force.

The latest tranche of investments, funded through the Defence Innovation Hub, demonstrates the Government’s commitment to invest in Australian industry, universities and research organisations to deliver leading-edge capability for Defence.

Image: The Boxer is a state-of-the-art wheeled vehicle with a modular design that permits a wide variety of configurations.

As part of this investment, Sentient Vision Systems, a small Australian computer vision technology company, has been awarded a $5.5 million contract to explore the development of a land Visual Detection and Ranging (VIDAR) system that utilises electro-optics, with a new infra-red capability for low light and night time functionality.

Rheinmetall Breaks Ground on New Vehicle Manufacturing Facility in Australia Minister for Defence, the Hon Christopher Pyne turned the first sod on Rheinmetall’s new Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in November, marking a new milestone for the Australian Army and the nation’s developing defence industry.

If successful, this technology will offer wide-area detection, tracking and classification capability that can be deployed on both manned and unmanned platforms.

Located in the City of Ipswich on the outskirts of Brisbane, the centre represents a $170 million investment by Rheinmetall, which is delivering both trucks and armoured vehicles for the Army.

The Defence Innovation Hub also signed a $3.2 million contract with Thomas Global to explore development of a next generation, high definition, colour, digital biocular image control unit for use in armoured vehicles.

BAE Systems Australia Signs Agreement for the Hunter Class Frigate Program BAE Systems Australia recently announced that it has signed an Advanced Work Arrangement (AWA) with the Australian Government for the Hunter Class Frigate Program. The Australian Government announced in June that BAE Systems was selected as the preferred tenderer for the Hunter Class Frigate Program to deliver nine Future Frigates for the Royal Australian Navy.

The AWA will allow BAE Systems to continue to mobilise the program, including maturing design and engineering plans, establishing a skilled workforce and setting up the required infrastructure necessary to commence prototyping in 2020.

Nigel Stewart (Managing Director Hunter Class Frigate Program, BAE Systems) said, “This is a very important and early milestone in the development of an enduring worldclass naval shipbuilding industry in Australia.

The AWA demonstrates a commitment by both BAE Systems and the Australian Government to ensure timely progress on this critical defence program.”

According to Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, “After securing the Commonwealth’s $5.2 billion LAND 400 Phase 2 project, Rheinmetall’s decision to build their next-generation combat reconnaissance vehicles in Queensland is a vote of confidence in this State’s future as a major supplier for the Australian Defence Force.”

“As we break ground on this new $170 million facility, we’re ushering in a new era for our defence and advanced manufacturing sectors, as well as welcoming an average of 300 construction jobs over the two-year build. When this facility is fully operational, it will deliver Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles (CRVs) for the Australian Army and contribute $1 billion toward Queensland’s economy,” said Palaszczuk.

Exclusive BOC Offer for Weld Australia Members Weld Australia is pleased to announce that all new and existing members now have access to discounted pricing on BOC equipment purchases, as well as discounts on gas and cylinder rental charges. Weld Australia is committed to representing the interests of its members and promoting the use of best practice technology and quality systems.

BOC is one of Australia’s leading gas and welding equipment specialists, offering gases, welders and welding supplies, PPE, workplace safety and industrial equipment. For details, visit: www.weldaustralia.com.au

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Australian Welding: December 2018

Maxcon Industries Wins 2018 Fabricator of the Year Weld Australia is pleased to announce the winner of the 2018 Fabricator of the Year Award: Maxcon Industries. This annual award acknowledges the success of an Australian fabricator which has demonstrated outstanding performance in various aspects including commercial success, delivery of innovation and continuous improvements, project success and community engagement. Criteria for the judgement of the award include market success, health and safety record, quality record, community involvement, evidence of innovation, and employee training and development.

According to Paul Court (General Manager, Maxcon Industries), Maxcon Industries was delighted to win the 2018 Weld Australia Fabricator of the Year Award.

“This is a really great honour for us.

To be recognised by an organisation as well-known and well-respected as Weld Australia is amazing. This really is an amazing milestone in our company—and we have been operating in the industry for over 40 years now. Winning the Weld Australia Fabricator of Year Award is a massive honour for our company,” said Court.

Part of the Aquatec Maxcon Group, Maxcon Industries is an industry leader in the manufacturing of custom complex steel structures.

Originally called Maxwell Contracting, the organisation was founded as a small private company in 1970, before moving to its current location just outside Ipswich in 1974.

The business initially concentrated

on power plant steelwork; highquality general engineering remains the core of the business. Today, Maxcon Industries employs over 70 people and provides custom made cryogenic pressure vessels and vacuum insulated products, including pipes and tanks and other diverse complex steel objects throughout Australia, and worldwide.

Market Success Maxcon Industries is one of only four manufacturers worldwide that has the facilities and know-how to fabricate Large Scale Vacuum Insulated Pipes. The revolutionary and specialised method used to super insulate the pipework has been developed by Maxcon Industries to cater to the growing demand for these vessels. Maxcon Industries is proud to have developed the prototype within Australia, and for it to be quality tested to meet the ASME B31.3 standard requirements.

Maxcon Industries has completed over 1,000 projects to date.

“We have proven ourselves to be internationally competitive and have successfully exported high quality products to countries all over the world, including Vietnam, India, Singapore, United States, Fiji, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and China, amongst others,” said Court.

Health and Safety Maxcon Industries has an exemplary safety record and a defined, ongoing commitment to safety. “Our commitment to safety extends to our award-winning rehabilitation programs. So much so, that one of our employees won the Injured Workers Achievement Award at the Queensland Safe Work and Return to Work Awards, 2017. Maxcon Industries was also a finalist for the Best demonstrated leadership in return to work award,” said Court.

Left: The Maxcon Industries team at their 3,000m2 factory complex in Ipswich. The main workshop is 20m wide, 110m long and 12m high. Three overhead cranes are installed with over 7m to the hook. Large mobile cranes can augment the fixed cranage with a 30 tonne yard crane if necessary. Also on-site is a 6.5m wide x 6m high and 20m long blast room, capable of a Class 3 blast with up to 100um profile, as well as an 18m wide x 90m long x 10m high paint workshop with 16 tonne and 20 tonne overhead cranes for lifting components.

2018 Fabricator of the Year Award

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Quality “The nature of the products and services Maxcon Industries provides places particular emphasis upon experience, workmanship, capability and quality, combined with after sales service and customer interaction. The quality of what we produce and deliver is so highly regarded that it’s what we are known for in the market; high quality fabrication,” said Court.

“We place major importance on competition based on quality, and ensure that the specification, statutory and regulatory requirements, and the needs of our customers are met on every job.

Our quality assurance system is monitored through regular audits and customer feedback.”

“We develop a tailored Quality Management Plan for each project, in conjunction with and approved by the client, to ensure our quality assurance system is consistent with the client’s requirements and our policies and procedures are clearly defined. This quality plan is used in combination with our quality manual, procedures, inspection and test plans, audit schedules and forms,” said Court.

Community Involvement Maxcon Industries prides itself on local industry and community participation. They run a community involvement program at their Ipswich head office, helping local worthy organisations that require fabrication.

Maxcon Industries pays for the materials, and their employees donate their spare time to fabricate and install these local projects. So far, Maxcon has fabricated and donated a grandstand for a local swimming club, transportable grandstands for local Rugby League Clubs and multiple items of playground equipment for local child care centres and schools.

Innovation A key focus of Maxcon Industries is researching and introducing new technologies to the industry. They have invested over $23 million dollars in research and development

and have actively sought out international technology partners to introduce innovations to the Australian market.

A recent example is the Kingaroy Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) in Queensland. The Aquatec Maxcon Group, including Maxcon Industries, was the technology provider and Design, Fabricate and Construct contractor, with the plant winning several industry innovation awards.

Staff Training and Development Maxcon Industries has a long standing commitment to apprenticeship programs, training and development. They have a fully integrated Professional Development System that focuses on upskilling and retaining personnel, which applies to all employees, from entry level apprentices all the way through to senior management.

According to Court, “Our personal development program is so successful that nearly all our senior management team has been

Top: Maxcon Industries is presented with their 2018 Weld Australia Fabricator of the Year Award at the ceremony in Sydney in early December. L to R: Paul Court (General Manager, Maxcon Industries) and Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia).

Bottom Left: A vertical 300k Cryogenic Vessel, fabricated by Maxcon Industries, is loaded onto a truck.

Bottom Right: Feed distribution chute fabricated by Maxcon Industries.

developed from within our company, from the workshop floor up. Both myself and our managing director, Peter Grbin, started with Maxcon as boilermakers. I’ve been with the company for 23 years, and Peter has been for 35 years. We’ve both worked our way up, with the help of Maxcon’s development program.

And we’re not the only ones, Maxcon Industries has multiple division managers, estimators, and on-shore and off-shore project managers that all started on the floor as apprentices or trades people,” said Court.

For details about Maxcon Industries, visit: www.maxconindustries.com.au

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Australian Welding: December 2018

ASC Develops New Welding Technique

ASC has successfully passed explosive tests for an advanced new welding technique for submarine hull steel in a development that opens the way to more efficient and reliable welds for Australian submarines. The newly approved TIP-TIG welding method is a more consistent and improved welding process and is expected to lead to increased efficiencies for submarine sustainment while retaining a safe environment for submarine crews.

To gain Commonwealth approval, ASC-welded test specimens of the hull steel had to pass repeated explosive bulge tests at a facility in Victoria. The tests involved a one square metre specimen of Collins Class submarine hull steel, made up of two sections that had been welded together.

The test specimen was repeatedly blown up until the “bulge” in the steel produced a thinning of the hull of a certain specified per cent.

The tests were conducted with the specimens held at a temperature significantly below zero degrees, simulating the most demanding under-sea conditions.

Careful examination of the weld showed that cracks did not grow

or break through, successfully passing the test.

ASC Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Whiley, said the successful explosive tests demonstrate ASC’s continued expertise in submarine hull fabrication and welding capability.

“Proving this advanced application of TIP-TIG welding for the high tensile, low carbon steel used in the Collins Class submarine pressure hulls means we will achieve even higher quality and reliability in our future work on Australia’s fleet of Collins Class submarines,” Whiley said.

“And it demonstrates our ongoing capability in ‘build like’ skills, leveraging our long history as a submarine builder, maintainer and

design authority in Australia. This is a result of ASC retaining more than 40 per cent of its submarine workforce with skills and experience from the original Collins Class build in the 1990s and 2000s.”

Peter Whyte, the first welder to ever work on the Collins submarines, is proud of where the program stands today. “As the first welder on the Collins build I’m proud of what the team at ASC achieved in the build of the fleet,” Whyte said. “It was difficult, challenging but equally rewarding to be part of something special.”

“Today those same disciplines and dedication are part of the current team that works on the fleet. The

13

ASC Develops New Welding Technique

next generation of welders and all trades are very capable and committed to achieving a world class product for the RAN.” The new technique will be introduced for the re-welding of HMAS Waller’s hull in its current full cycle docking in Osborne, South Australia.

International Procurement Excellence The approval of ASC’s new welding technique follows the recent announcement that ASC is the first Australian defence company to receive the international corporate certification for excellence in procurement by the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS).

Whiley said the CIPS Corporate Standard certification, which followed an in-depth examination

by CIPS, was critical in enhancing ASC’s role as Australia’s largest sovereign-controlled defence prime contractor.

“The award is independent recognition by the global professional body of the quality and robustness of our procurement policies, processes and procedures,” said Whiley. “This achievement will guide our future work in procurement — a critical role as Australia’s largest locally

owned defence prime contractor, supporting the Government’s Naval Shipbuilding Plan.”

Over several months, ASC underwent an in-depth examination of its purchasing policies, processes and procedures to ensure alignment with the CIPS corporate benchmarks. As a result of this in-depth review, ASC was awarded CIPS Corporate Standard certification and was provided with a detailed report which included assessors’ commentary on the outcomes and recommendations for further improvement.

Asset Management Partnership ASC recently signed a partnership with the Asset Management Council of Australia to strengthen its lifecycle management execution of the Collins fleet. The move follows ASC becoming the first Australian defence company recognised with international certification for asset management for defence assets, which was awarded by BSI International in April 2018.

“ASC is currently Australia’s leading submarine builder and sustainer, and will continue to be a critical partner, with Defence, in delivering international benchmark availability for the Collins Class submarine fleet well into the 2040s,” Whiley said.

“This partnership with the AMCouncil will drive continuous improvement in ASC’s submarine sustainment, upgrade and life-oftype extension for the entire fleet, using the life-cycle management principles.”

“Defence has endorsed asset management as best practice in maximising value from its critical assets. With this partnership, ASC and the Asset Management Council are showing the way for others in Australian defence industry. We are excited at what the future brings both for this partnership and the improvements we can bring to bear for the Collins Class fleet in coming years,” said Whiley.

The partnership will initially see 40 specifically selected key ASC submarine platform experts undergo targeted training, seminars and joint events focused on Asset Management and life-cycle management. This initiative will generate a broader and deeper understanding of Asset Management in general and will result in the adoption of Asset Management methodologies and alignment across ASC’s submarine business.

“The objective is to maximise the value of the submarine to Australia’s Submarine Enterprise by optimising submarine capability, availability and affordability throughout its service life,” said Whiley.

ASC’s submarine business employs more than 1,100 personnel across its two facilities in SA and WA. ASC built the Collins Class fleet and is now the design authority and the Platform Systems Integrator (PSI) for sustainment and upgrades of the submarines, as part of the Submarine Enterprise, along with the Royal Australian Navy and Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group (Department of Defence).

This article originally appeared on Australian Defence. For details, visit: australiandefence.com.au

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Australian Welding: December 2018

Naval Shipbuilding College Officially Open The Naval Shipbuilding College was officially opened in November 2018. Established by the Australian Government, the College will support the development of the highly skilled workforce required to deliver the $90 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan. Located at Osborne in South Australia, the College is being managed on behalf of the Australian Government by the Naval Shipbuilding Institute Australia – a joint venture between Kellogg Brown and Root and Huntington Ingalls Industries, the largest shipbuilding company in the US.

According to Bill Docalovich (Program Director, Naval Shipbuilding College), “More than 15,000 direct and in-direct jobs will be created to build the Future Submarines, Frigates and Offshore Patrol Vessels, not to mention the workforce required around Australia to sustain the current and future fleet.”

“The College has a critical role to develop the workforce needed to support the continuous naval shipbuilding enterprise which will build and sustain Australia’s naval capabilities, create economic growth and secure local jobs for decades to come,” Docalovich said.

The College facilitates collaboration between industry and the education and training sector to develop endorsed programs. These programs will help deliver a skilled and capable workforce to meet the future needs of naval shipbuilding industry,

delivered through existing Higher Education and Vocational providers.

The College is focused on making naval shipbuilding a career of choice for the Australian workforce. It will provide a broad range of people with an opportunity to develop meaningful and exciting careers that offer advancement and growth.

“This is a nation building endeavour and the College is leading the charge to ensure Australia has qualified sovereign workers who are job-ready. We’re partnering with training and education providers throughout Australia to make sure courses align with the future needs of the naval shipbuilding industry.

Naval shipbuilding offers a diverse range of skilled and professional career opportunities from working on the ship deck, through to project management and into the board room,” said Docalovich.

Industry support for the College has been widespread. BAE Systems Australia Chief Executive, Gabby Costigan, said that preparing Australia’s workforce to deliver on these exciting naval projects is the number one priority. “The Naval Shipbuilding College will play a pivotal role in helping to develop the capability that we need to deliver future maritime defence programs including the delivery of the Hunter Class frigates. With the pipeline of work ahead of us, we must continue to invest in the skills and education to deliver on the Defence plans,” said Costigan.

Naval Group Australia Chief Executive Officer, John Davis, welcomed the new initiative.

“We welcome the opening of the Naval Shipbuilding College as part of the Government’s efforts to bolster the naval shipbuilding workforce.

We look forward to working with

“

The College has a critical role to develop the workforce needed to support the continuous naval shipbuilding enterprise which will build and sustain Australia’s naval capabilities, create economic growth and secure local jobs for decades to come.”

15

Naval Shipbuilding College Officially Open

Left (L to R): Bill Docalovich (Program Director, Naval Shipbuilding College) and Minister for Defence, the Hon Christopher Pyne.

Right (L to R): His Excellency the Hon Hieu Van Le (AC) Governor of South Australia, Bill Docalovich (Program Director, Naval Shipbuilding College), Rear Admiral Tony Dalton (General Manager Ships, CASG), and the Hon Christopher Pyne, Minister for Defence.

the Naval Shipbuilding College to ensure we have the right people with the right skills to deliver the Future Submarine Program,” said Davis.

Defence Teaming Centre Chief Executive, Margot Forster, said collaboration is vital to develop education platforms into shipbuilding careers for future generations and welcomed the College’s partnership with the Defence Industry Education and Skills Consortium.

“The Naval Shipbuilding College will become the critical connector between industry and education and is a significant first step towards meeting future demand of the naval shipbuilding industry,” Forster said.

Hull Welding Performance Needs Analysis A hull welding performance needs analysis was undertaken by the Naval Shipbuilding College to determine how well available welding training pathways met the current available naval shipbuilding industry’s needs for entry level welders. The analysis was conducted with specialist support from Huntington Ingalls Industries ship welding Master Trainers.

Together with the Master Trainers from Huntington Ingalls Industries, the College interviewed and surveyed representatives from the shipbuilding industry, training providers and Weld Australia. Site inspections were also undertaken.

The analysis determined that while the welding training provided

by TAFE SA (and other training providers nationally) helped to meet shipbuilding entry level requirements, some additional components were required.

These components included core skills such as the ability to follow weld procedures, together with experience in welding in restricted positions and confined locations.

It was also determined that the introduction of welding simulators would speed up welder skill development. The simulators would afford trainees more welding practice because there is no need to cut and prepare metal until a trainee can demonstrate their skill on a live activity.

The Huntington Ingalls Industries ship welding Master Trainers supplied a welding exercise used in their ship welding training courses.

This exercise was discussed with ASC welding specialists. As a result of the discussions, a modified exercise was prepared for use by TAFE SA in their welder training courses.

This exercise includes the use of a mock-up of a typical deck plate to bulk assembly. This provides the best simulation of ship welding conditions. A mock-up was constructed with TAFE SA and the welding exercise now forms part of its advanced welding training and assessment. This training has been

endorsed by the College, as it meets the shipbuilding entry level welder requirements identified in the needs analysis project. The College is now rolling out this welding exercise nationally.

An additional benefit of the exercise is that the skills involved have been recognised as beneficial to many welding enterprises whose core business is not necessarily ship construction. This is a great outcome, which is expected to improve welder capability across a range of industries.

National Workforce Register The Naval Shipbuilding College has also launched a National Workforce Register to connect Australian workers and students with new career opportunities. The Workforce Register enables first time entrants, people transitioning from adjacent industries or up-skilling within the industry to connect with employers or education providers.

“The Workforce Register will enable people from around Australia who are interested in long-term shipbuilding career opportunities to express their interest and receive assistance through the skilling and employment process,” said Docalovich.

To register your interest in working on the most technologically advanced, cutting edge projects in the world visit navalshipbuildingcollege.com.au

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2018 Year In Review

Welcome to Weld Australia’s 2018 Year In Review – a look at our achievements, projects and programs over the last 12 months. 2018 has been a highly successful year for Weld Australia in many ways. It really is an exciting time to be a Weld Australia member. We are committed to using our extensive experience, combined with an innovative new approach, to achieve our core mission—promoting the interests of our members within the field of welding, not just in Australia, but across the globe.

216

Meetings with Welding Industry Stakeholders

1,016

New Users Registered in WeldQ

12

Meetings with State Government

17

2018 Year In Review

30 Member Events

5

Advanced Welder Training Centres Funded

32

State Division Committee Meetings

20 Industry Events

99

Hotline Queries Resolved

18

Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Member Events Weld Australia is committed to ensuring that the Australian welding industry remains both locally and globally competitive. Engaging the welding community at a local level plays a key role in upholding this commitment. With the help of state committees, Weld Australia regularly holds member events, from site visits and technical presentations, through to networking opportunities.

Weld Australia state committees act as our voice in their local community, and provide us with information on what we can do to help in their local area. If you would like to join your state’s committee in 2019, contact membership@weldaustralia.com.au.

Mike Smith of Smithweld Enterprises.

L to R: Panel members David Price (ASC), Joe Cavallaro (Intertek), Phill Stubbington (Lincoln Electric) and Paul Bettison (TAFE SA).

Weld Australia members at the EN 15085 Workshp.

Technical Presentation, Perth, February Mike Smith of Smithweld Enterprises held an insightful presentation on how to get the best out of metal-cored arc welding. Mike worked at Lincoln Electric, for over 20 years, in various positions including State Manager before establishing Smithweld Enterprises in 1992.

Mike’s hands-on presentation demonstrated: one sided open root single bevel 2G position for welding bolsters to truck chassis using the stich technique; a narrow gap 1G butt weld on 20mm plate in forehand and backhand options; pulse STT, 1.2 metal core; and mechanised welding of pipe using 1.2mm 1% Ni metal cored wire, using a powered rotator and gun torch support.

Welding Q&A Panel, Adelaide, March The South Australia Division hosted a Welding Q&A Panel in March. Panel members included: Phill Stubbington (Lincoln Electric Company), Joe Cavallaro (Intertek), David Price (ASC), and Paul Bettison (TAFE SA). The expert panel answered members’ questions on subjects such as weld testing, metallurgy, welding procedures, welding consumables, welder qualification, the Australian Welder Certification Register, materials selection, preheat and post-heat and welding dissimilar metals. The panel also discussed how ISO and Australian Standards have aligned to reflect current industry requirements for manufacturing in Australia.

EN 15085 Workshop, Melbourne, March In conjunction with the Italian Institute of Welding, Weld Australia hosted a workshop on EN 15085 rail certification. The workshop delivered insights and practical recommendations related to the EN 15085 series of Standards, Railway applications – Welding of railway vehicles and components. The workshop was delivered by Stefanno Morra who is the technical manager of IIS Cert, a company of the Italian Institute of Welding group, and the director of the IIW International Authorisation Board. During the workshop, Stefanno explained the standard’s history, the different certification levels, and why certification is so important.

19

Weld Australia members at ALS Global.

Weld Australia members at the AS/NZS 5131 Presentation.

Steve Upton (Director, Austedan Fabrication).

Weld Australia members at the AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Presentation.

ALS Global Site Tour, Brisbane, May The ALS Global site tour covered a range of topics, including work requests for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and mechanical testing. ALS Global highlighted that NDT radiography detects volumetric defects (such as slag, porosity, gas pores and incomplete root penetration) better than ultrasonic testing. Qualifying aluminium test pieces was also discussed, and a significant portion of the evening was also dedicated to tips for fabricators. ALS Global’s expertise in managing weld testing programs extends back to its origins in Australia in 1955. Its Riverview site contains a state of the art mechanical and materials testing facility.

AS/NZS 5131 Presentation, Sydney, May In May, Weld Australia hosted a presentation on AS/NZS 5131 Structural Steelwork – Fabrication and erection delivered by Dr Peter Key (National Technical Development Manager, Australian Steel Institute). Dr Key’s presentation provided an overview of the new Australian Standard AS/NZS 5131. The Standard defines good practice for fabrication and erection of structural steelwork for projects in Australia and is the basis for the new National Structural Steelwork Compliance Scheme (NSSCS). Following the presentation, attendees were treated to a site tour of S&L Steel’s facility.

Austedan Site Tour, Newcastle, August In August, Weld Australia members were treated to a site tour and technical presentation at Austedan Fabrication in Newcastle. Austedan Fabrication has specialised in dust, fume and vacuum systems for over 25 years. Austedan designs, fabricates and installs their own systems, which enables them to create purpose built solutions for customers. In addition to extensive experience in ductwork, fans, high pressure vacuum systems and reverse pulse dust collection systems, Austedan also offers re-bagging, re-valving, retrofitting and other maintenance services to existing dust collectors of most brands.

AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Presentation, Perth, October Weld Australia facilitated a presentation on AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders — Fusion welding — Part 1: Steels in October.

The presentation was delivered by Louise Petrick (Technology Manager, Weld Australia). AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 provides for a standardised method of testing a welder’s skill utilising welding processes, materials, consumables and procedures likely to be encountered during the fabrication of steelwork. It not only qualifies the welder for the conditions of test but also for all other conditions considered easier to weld in accordance with the Standard.

20

Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Industry Events Weld Australia was involved in various industry events this year, with Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) and Michael Pitt (National Business Development Manager, Weld Australia) delivering keynote presentations and participating in expert panel discussions on numerous occasions.

Just some of the industry events in which Weld Australia was involved include the Australian Oil & Gas Exhibition, National Manufacturing Week, Land Forces and the Australian Steel Convention.

In addition, Weld Australia facilitated the National Manufacturing Summit in June. With over 150 delegates and more than 20 keynote speakers and panellists, the Summit addressed two crucial constraints faced by the manufacturing sector: energy insecurity and fragmented skills and training.

Australasian Oil & Gas Exhibition.

Mehdi Tajar (Welding Consultant, Weld Australia) demonstrates the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator.

Mehdi Tajar (Welding Consultant, Weld Australia) demonstrates the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator.

Australasian Oil & Gas Exhibition, Perth, March Weld Australia exhibited at the Australasian Oil & Gas Conference and Exhibition. Melissa Odendaal (Welding Consultant, Weld Australia) demonstrated the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator. This revolutionary welder training tool enables students and apprentices to learn how to weld in a safe environment before moving on to real-life practical welding training and qualification. The simulator dramatically fast tracks the training process—by as much as 30% to 50%—and delivers a corresponding cost reduction in consumables.

We received positive feedback from all conference attendees who witnessed Melissa’s demonstration.

National Manufacturing Week, Sydney, May National Manufacturing Week (NMW) is one of Australia’s largest gatherings of manufacturing decisionmakers. Welding, heat-treating, joining and associated products and technologies were featured on the exhibition floor in the Welding Technology Product Zone.

Weld Australia impressed delegates with interactive, hands-on demonstrations of the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator. It proved to be extremely popular with the crowds; there were people lining up to try their hand at this innovative advanced welding training technology and learn more about the myriad benefits it has to offer.

WorldSkills 2018 Skills Show, Sydney, June Weld Australia exhibited at Skills Show Australia; a celebration of trades, skills, vocational education and training and above all – industry excellence. The Soldamatic was onsite at the National WorldSkills competition, giving employers, competitors and the general public a chance to try their hand at welding.

Some of Australia’s top young trades people, employers, students, parents and members of the public experienced the technology, and the feedback was very positive. Key stakeholders within the welding industry, such as trainers, were able to see the advantages in skills development and acquisition.

2018 Year In Review: Industry Events

2018 Australian Steel Convention.

Land Forces Panel Using Simulation to Train Leadership, Team Communication and Compliance.

Michael Pitt (National Business Development Manager, Weld Australia) at the APGA Convention.

Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) at the WFCP World Congress.

21

Steel Convention, Melbourne, September Weld Australia attended the Australian Steel Institute’s 2018 Australian Steel Convention in Melbourne in September. Australia is experiencing a steel renaissance. With an unprecedented pipeline of opportunity in infrastructure, defence, building and construction, investments in ‘green steel’ and renewables, increasing export capability, new product development, a dynamic geopolitical environment and developments in digitisation, robotics, automation and virtual augmented reality, the 2018 Steel Convention explored current developments and emerging trends in Australian industry and economy.

Land Forces, Adelaide, September In September, Weld Australia attended Land Forces 2018. Presented in collaboration with the Australian Army, Land Forces 2018 was an international industry exposition to showcase equipment, technology and services for the armies of Australia and the Indo Asia Pacific. Michael Pitt (National Business Development Manager, Weld Australia) was part of a panel entitled Using Simulation to Train Leadership, Team Communication and Compliance. The session detailed how different industries use simulation applications and methodologies to train teams or individuals in leadership, communication and compliance.

APGA Convention, Darwin, September Weld Australia both sponsored and attended the 50th Annual Convention and Exhibition of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association (APGA), held at the Darwin Convention Centre in September. To mark APGA’s 50th anniversary, the theme of the 2018 Convention was Australia’s Pipelines: 50 years of safe and reliable delivery of energy and water. Michael Pitt (National Business Development Manager, Weld Australia) gave a highly informative and engaging presentation entitled ‘Using Advanced Welder Training Technology to Reduce Welder Training Costs and Improve Outputs’.

WFCP World Congress, Melbourne, October Weld Australia representatives attended the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics (WFCP) World Congress. The Congress brought together over 800 experts in vocational education and training. With the theme of Preparing for the Skills Future, Now, the Congress aimed to make a difference to the outcomes of millions of vocational and professional students worldwide. Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) was invited to be part of the Advancing Trade panel. Geoff spoke on New Technology Transforming Welder Training, providing attendees with detailed information the Soldamatic augmented reality welding training simulators.

22

Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: National Manufacturing Summit The 2018 National Manufacturing Summit saw a diverse group of over 100 industry stakeholders assemble at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday 26 June. Hosted by Weld Australia, with the theme ‘Solutions to Critical Issues: Energy and Technical Training’, the Summit sought solutions to the two crucial constraints faced by the manufacturing sector in Australia: energy insecurity and Australia’s fragmented skills and training.

Energy Insecurity The increasing cost and unreliability of Australia’s energy supply is putting manufacturing under considerable pressure, undermining the sector’s competitiveness in today’s global market. Many of the keynote speakers, including Professor Ross Garnaut (President, SIMEC ZEN Energy) and the Hon Mark Butler (Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy) highlighted the importance of innovative, sustainable and environmentally ethical solutions to Australia’s energy supply, in order to return much needed certainty and security to Australian businesses, making a significant contribution to the renewal of manufacturing. The Hon Mark Butler (Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy) highlighted the issues within the Australian energy sector.

Top: Professor Ross Garnaut (President, SIMEC ZEN Energy).

Middle: Dr Jim Stanford (Economist and Director, Centre for Future Work at the Australia Institute) Bottom: The Hon Doug Cameron, Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Apprenticeships and Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness.

Fragemented Skills and Training With increasing employment opportunities in manufacturing (particularly in light of the $90 billion Naval Shipbuilding Plan), highly skilled workers are required now more than ever, by defence prime contractors, subcontractors and manufacturing companies. If projects are to be delivered efficiently and Australian companies are to take full advantage of the opportunities available, technical training needs an overhaul. To achieve the necessary degree of skill and competence, a significant amount of both individual and company upskilling and technical training is required to meet global standards. Many of the Summit’s keynote speakers— including Dr Jim Stanford (Economist and Director, Centre for Future Work), Neil Coulson (Victorian Skills Commissioner), and the Hon Doug Cameron (Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Apprenticeships)— focused on the importance of technical training to the future of Australian manufacturing, and what action needs to be taken now to ensure Australia has the workforce capability to deliver major projects.

2019 National Manufacturing Summit Weld Australia is pleased to announce that we will again host the National Manufacturing Summit in 2019. If you would like to register your interest to attend, sponsor or participate in the 2019 Summit, please do so via: https://manufacturingsummit.com.au.

2018 Year In Review: Training & Certification

23

2018: Training & Certification Several major Weld Australia training and certification projects continued throughout 2018. The Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR) and WeldQ platform have continued to grow. Over 1,000 newly registered users have now been added to WeldQ, in addition to the more than 8,000 individuals whose records were transferred to the platform. A profile has been created for all people who gained qualifications or certifications from 2000 onwards both through Weld Australia and the IIW. We also conducted the first online exams using the WeldQ system in April.

63

Completed Welding Technology Appreciation Courses

16

Weld Australia revised the delivery method for several of its courses, applying distance learning methodology to the Welding Supervisor and Welding Inspector qualifications. A new online course was also introduced this year: Welding Appreciation for Technical Personnel.

Finally, Weld Australia facilitated a number of specialised industry workshops, including the Pipeline Repair, Hot Tapping and In-Service Welding Workshop in Sydney in October, and the EN 15085 Rail Certification Workshops in Sydney, Perth and Melbourne. All workshops received very positive feedback from attendees.

For more information about training, contact Paul James (Training Manager, Weld Australia) on +61 2 8748 0150 or p.james@weldaustralia.com.au, or peruse the 2019 Training Calendar on page 50.

11

Completed Welding Sales Representative Courses

Newly Trained International Welding Technologists & Engineers

35

Newly Trained International Welding Specialists

53

Newly Trained International Welding Inspectors

24

Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Weld Australia Company Certifications Weld Australia would like to congratulate all companies who were awarded certification in 2018.

These members include ABFI Steel, Baker & Provan, Belconnen Steel, Chess Engineering, Direct Edge Manufacturing, Hayman Industries, Haywards Steel Fabrication and Construction, and Taringa Steel, all of which achieved certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials. In addition, Bombardier Transportation Australia was certified according to EN 15085 Railway applications – Welding of railway vehicles and components.

ABFI Steel A professional, experienced steel fabrication company, ABFI Steel is located in Wacol, Brisbane. Their management team and highly qualified workshop tradesmen have extensive industry experience and product knowledge to ensure the successful delivery of project requirements. ABFI Steel specialises in heavy steel fabrication, and design and development services for the government and mining sectors.

Baker & Provan Established in 1946, Baker & Provan specialises in manufacturing, fabrication and support services.

With extensive capabilities and expertise, Baker & Provan provides services in: steel, stainless steel, aluminium and bisalloy welding and fabrication; CNC milling, machining

and lathes; stress relieving; and deep hole drilling. They operate across a range of sectors, including defence, rail and heavy industry. Just some of the projects in which Baker & Provan have been involved include the Sydney Metro 2 Tunnel Moulds, and the Tangara trains bogie manufacture for Sydney Trains.

Belconnen Steel Located in Brendale, Queensland, Belconnen Steel was established in 1990 and is a privately owned supplier of medium to heavy fabricated steel products. Their clients include major contractors such as Leighton Contractors, John Holland, JF Hull Holdings, Seymour Whyte and Fulton Hogan, as well as public sector organisations such as Queensland Rail, RoadTek and the Department of Transport and Main

Roads (TMR). Belconnen Steel has worked on several major projects, including Airport Link, Emmaus College Pedestrian Overpass, Origin Alliance, Houghton Highway Duplication, and the Horizon Alliance.

Chess Engineering Chess Engineering is firmly established as a reliable steel fabricator, manufacturing to Australian standards of quality and safety. They conceptualise, design, fabricate and install all metals including mild steel, bisalloy, stainless, aluminium, titanium, and so on. Their capacity and technology covers an array of markets including specialisation in: rail rolling stock and track; mining; infrastrucutre; food and beverage; flame proofing; mobile cranes; and general engineering.

2018 Year In Review: Training & Certification

25

Far Left (L to R): The ABFI Steel team: Andrew Wilson, Brian Drager, Abhishek Trivedi (Technology Manager, Weld Australia), Jake Bienke, and Jason Barr.

Left (L to R): The Baker & Provan team: Martin Gouffe, Greg Thompson, Stephen Olley, Paolo Corronca (Qualification and Certification Manager, Weld Australia), Andrew Ford and Terry Carabott.

Direct Edge Manufacturing Located in South Burnie, Tasmania, Direct Edge is a national leader in sophisticated sheet metal manufacturing. Utilising machinery such as the world’s fastest threedimensional sheet metal processor, they provide an unparalleled cut, fold, punch, fabricate and powdercoat service at extremely competitive rates. Equally comfortable with mass production as with small batch quantities, Direct Edge prides itself on dedication to continual innovation.

Hayman Industries Australian owned and operated, Hayman Industries specialises in steel fabricated products for the electricity distribution industry. Its history goes back several decades to the 1950s, commencing operations as a distributor of fence fittings and horse shoes to rural New South Wales. Based in Minto, New South Wales, just some of their clients include Essential Energy, Ausgrid, AGL, Balfour Beaty, Leightons, Roads and Maritime Services, Railcorp, and Energex.

Haywards Steel Fabrication and Construction With several workshops across Tasmania and their main facilities in Western Junction, Haywards is widely recognised for taking

on complex and difficult projects that other companies turn down.

With a highly skilled and dedicated workforce, Haywards delivers quality fabrication and construction projects of the highest professional standard. Recent projects include: plate bridge girders, wind towers, sports stadiums, pressure vessels, conveyor systems, and underground crushing plants.

Taringa Steel Taringa Steel supplies, fabricates, and installs a range of metalwork, light to medium structural steel, and stainless steel. They also provide surface treatment services. From their inception in 1962, Taringa Steel has grown to become one of south east Queensland’s major steel suppliers to the construction industry.

With a team of over 40 people, Taringa’s clients have included companies such as Lendlease, Grocon, Mirvac and Watpac.

Bombardier Transportation Bombardier Transportation Australia became the first Australian company to be internationally recognised with certification according to EN 15085. In partnership with IIS CERT (the certification arm of the Italian Institute of Welding Group of Companies), Weld Australia performed the certification audit at Bombardier’s facility in Dandenong,

Victoria. Originally developed for the European market, EN 15085 has quickly become the internationally expected Standard for railway manufacture and repair.

According to Paolo Corronca (Qualification and Certification Manager, Weld Australia), “Weld Australia is delighted to support IIS CERT in offering EN 15085 certification services to the Australian welding industry at an affordable cost.”

“EN 15085 certification will enable Australian fabricators to participate in large, profitable international supply chains. With most railway vehicles currently in service in Australia being designed and manufactured internationally according to EN 15085, this certification will ensure that Australian fabricators’ capabilities to maintain our fleet of trains are recognised and acknowledged.

Workshops that have the capability to weld new projects and perform maintenance in compliance with EN 15085 will be in high demand,” said Corronca.

For more information on certification, contact Paolo Corronca (Qualification and Certification Manager, Weld Australia) on +61 438 012 099 or p.corronca@ weldaustralia.com.au

26

Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Advanced Welder Training Centres Weld Australia implemented a rigorous program of government lobbying in 2018 in a bid to help alleviate Australia’s significant shortage of qualified and certified welders. As a result, Weld Australia secured over $4.3 million worth of State and Federal Government funding for the establishment of five Advanced Welder Training Centres (AWTCs), which will be located at: the TAFE SA Regency Campus in Adelaide, South Australia; the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council Centre of Excellence in South Burnie, Tasmania; Box Hill TAFE in Melbourne, Victoria; at SkillsTech Acacia Ridge in Queensland; and in Caboolture, Queensland. It is expected that at least five more AWTCs will receive funding over the next 12 months.

The AWTCs will use augmented reality welding simulators to upksill qualified welders and train transitionary workers to international welding certification standard ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders - Fusion welding. ISO 9606-1 is the minimum requirement for defence, rolling stock, and infrastructure projects.

According to Geoff Crittenden (Chief Executive Officer, Weld Australia), “The combination of a curriculum that is based on global best practice, delivered via advanced training technology, will help ensure a strong supply of capable welders, who are ready to deliver upcoming defence and infrastructure industry work.

Without a doubt, the successful implementation of this innovative training initiative will revolutionise welder training in Australia. It will raise the standard of welder education in Australia exponentially, putting our welder training on par with the best in Europe and America.”

TAFE SA Regency Campus, Adelaide Minister for Industry and Skills, the Hon David Pisoni MP, pledged $1 million worth of funding to establish an AWTC at the Regency Campus of TAFE SA in early July. Crittenden said the AWTC will be established

Far Right (L to R): Trevor Ruthenberg, the Hon Julie Bishop MP and Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) at the launch of the Advanced Welder Training Centre in Caboolture, South-East Queensland.

Right (L to R): Jennifer Oliver (Acting CEO, Box Hill Institute), the Hon Gayle Tierney MP, Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) and Neil Coulson (Victorian Skills Commissioner).

in Adelaide in a bid to ensure local welders are ready to meet the huge demand that will be created by the naval shipbuilding program. “It is anticipated that the continuous naval shipbuilding program in South Australia will require around 2,600 tradespeople from 2020 to 2027. Almost half of this demand will be for welders. The AWTC will help ensure local welders are qualified to meet this demand,” said Crittenden.

Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council Centre of Excellence, South Burnie An AWTC will open at the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council Centre of Excellence in South Burnie, with the Former Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Simon Birmingham MP, pledging $750,000 worth of funding in July. The funding will be invested in welding simulators, as well as advanced technical training to help upskill TasTAFE trainers. It is expected that the AWTC will help support the key role that north west Tasmania is playing as a powerhouse in advanced manufacturing.

Five Soldamatic augmented reality welding training simulators were delivered to South Burnie in late August. Representatives from more than 15 local

2018 Year in Review: Advanced Welder Training Centres

27

welding and fabrication companies were then treated to in-depth training on how to use the simulators.

Trainers from Seabery (the manufacturers of the Soldamatic) were on-site in Burnie, having travelled from Spain to deliver the interactive sessions.

Caboolture, Queensland The Former Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, announced a major partnership with Weld Australia in August, and pledged $750,000 worth of funding for an AWTC in Caboolture.

Box Hill TAFE, Melbourne Victoria’s first AWTC opened in Melbourne, with the Victorian Minister for Training and Skills, the Hon Gayle Tierney MP, pledging $1 million worth of funding in August. According to Tierney, “This project ensures we have enough highly skilled welders for our state’s defence and advanced manufacturing industries, as well as major rail and infrastructure projects. We want to make sure TAFEs are supported to deliver the skills industry needs and give all Victorians the training they need to get a job.”

According to Crittenden, the AWTC will be a major drawcard for the entire South-East Queensland region.

“Queensland, as a whole, faces a significant shortage of qualified and certified welders. Without action, the State will be unable to meet future demand for defence, rolling stock, infrastructure and resources projects. The AWTC will help ensure local welders are ready to meet industry demand,” said Crittenden.

The Victorian Skills Commissioner has been a strong proponent of the AWTC concept from the outset, commissioning Weld Australia to convene an Industry Skills Group in mid-2017.

This Industry Skills Group prepared a curriculum for training both experienced welders and entry-level workers. The courses were accredited by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) in late 2017. As a result, TAFEs across Victoria and around the country can teach the accredited course, which will be funded by their parent State Government.

“Employment in Victoria’s manufacturing sector remains strong and industry demand for welding skills, as exemplified through the awarding of defence contracts, has swelled”, said the Victorian Skills Commissioner, Neil Coulson.

“Delivering the right training and education and ensuring that the right pathways are available for people to transition from training into work are vital.

Industry input can lead to more strategic and targeted interventions to align the training system with industry needs. As such, the manufacturing industry can help facilitate information sharing and collaboration between government, employers, trade unions and training providers.”

According to the Hon Julie Bishop MP, the AWTC will help make Caboolture a skills hub. Apprentices will receive valuable and intense practical training, making them job-ready to take advantage of the opportunities of a stronger economy. The system’s flexibility and mobility means it can be transported to companies around Longman for on-site training, saving small and medium-sized businesses money.

SkillsTech Acacia Ridge, Queensland Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, the Hon Cameron Dick MP, and Minister for Training and Skills Development, the Hon Shannon Fentiman MP, joined Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) at Parliament House in Brisbane in September to pledge $800,000 of funding.

The funding will enable the purchase of 10 state-ofthe-art augmented reality welding simulators—the most advanced of their kind anywhere in the world.

Five of these welding simulator units will be based at SkillsTech in Acacia Ridge, with the remaining five to be based in regional areas such as North and Far North Queensland.

According to Minister Dick, “We want Queensland welders to have the technology and coursework to meet the international welding standard increasingly being required for major defence and commercial projects, so we are planning for the future.”

“

Without a doubt, the successful implementation of this innovative training initiative will revolutionise welder training in Australia. It will raise the standard of welder education in Australia exponentially, putting our welder training on par with the best in Europe and America.”

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Industry Partnerships Weld Australia’s mission is to represent the interests of members and safeguard the public by ensuring the integrity of in-service welds, and to promote the use of best practice technology and quality systems. As such, we provide a network for the exchange of ideas and the sharing of resources, and adopt a collective and cooperative approach. Wherever possible, we form collaborative partnerships with like-minded companies and organisations. In 2018, we formed partnerships with EMICoL, the Henderson Alliance, the University of Wollongong, TAFE NSW and Fincantieri Australia, as well as a host of other organisations.

Defence Welding Hubs In association with EMICoL and the Henderson Alliance, Weld Australia hosted the launch of the first Defence Welding Hub in Perth at the end of August.

Welding is a core capability critical in the delivery of upcoming defence equipment projects. A high level of welding competence will be required by both prime contractors and subcontractors in the supply chain, if projects are to be delivered efficiently and companies are to take full advantage of the opportunities the wide-ranging defence initiatives offer.

To achieve the necessary degree of competence, a significant amount of both individual and company upskilling will be required to meet the standards required by global defence prime contractors and their certifying

Top Left: Reece Carey (Deputy Chairperson, Henderson Alliance) describes how the Henderson Alliance connects Western Australian SMEs with defence prime contractors, defence industry experts and government representatives at the Defence Welding Hub launch.

Top Right: Donna Hutchison (HSEQ Specialist, Quensh) explains the support services available to small and medium sized companies looking to tender for projects at the Defence Welding Hub launch.

Bottom: Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) opens the launch of the Defence Welding Hub in Perth.

authority. Critical to optimising the potential industry benefits will be national and international collaboration across industries to promote technology transfer and commercialisation and development of research projects.

To facilitate and foster this activity, Weld Australia is establishing a network of Defence Welding Hubs in key locations around Australia.

Each hub will provide a focal point for defence welding activity through a network of contractors, subcontractors and relevant supporting organisations.

Each Defence Welding Hub will: • Facilitate collaboration through a network of defence welding professionals and organisations • Provide access to Advanced Welder Training Centres,

• •

• •

incorporating augmented reality simulators and advanced welder training systems, delivering state subsidised welder training courses to AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Deliver welding, supervision, inspection, technology and engineering courses Offer welding consulting services on establishing factory production control systems to AS/NZS ISO 3834 and other technical welding problems Provide IIW Certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834 Expedite technology transfer, research development and commercialisation projects through Weld Australia’s relationship with DMTC, DSTG and the French, Italian, Spanish and German Welding Institutes

The launch was opened by Geoff

2018 Year in Review: Industry Partnerships

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(L to R): Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia), Professor Judy Raper (Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, University of Wollongong), Kerry Penton (Regional General Manager - South, TAFE NSW), Gareth Ward (Local Member for Kiama and Parliamentary Secretary for the Illawarra and South Coast) at the launch of the Facility for Intelligent Fabrication.

Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) who introduced the concept of the Defence Welding Hubs, and provided details on the services and support that they will provide to both Australian welders and fabricators, and the defence industry at large.

Kevin Davis (Board Member, EMICoL) then gave a presentation on the role of EMICoL. EMICoL (the Engineering and Manufacturing Industry Cooperative Limited) represents a cooperative cluster group of industries in the manufacturing, engineering, mining and fabrication sectors of industry.

Reece Carey (Deputy Chairperson, Henderson Alliance) spoke about the role of the Henderson Alliance. The Henderson Alliance was established in 2017 to develop and promote the capabilities of small to medium businesses in Western Australia, primarily in the acquisition and sustainment phases of Australia’s new shipbuilding programs - but also in other defence and related industries.

Facility for Intelligent Fabrication The Facility for Intelligent Fabrication (FIF) was launched at the University of Wollongong (UOW) by the Hon Gareth Ward MP (Parliamentary Secretary for Education and the Illawarra and South Coast), on behalf of the Hon John Barilaro MP (Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional New

South Wales, Minister for Skills, and Minister for Small Business) in March.

FIF combines the knowledge and resources of the UOW, TAFE NSW and Weld Australia. FIF was formed in recognition of the changing business climate, as the Illawarra transitions from large-scale heavy manufacturing, and the need for local manufacturers to innovate and adapt to remain competitive.

The facility draws on decades of research-based welding and automation expertise and welding training at both UOW and TAFE NSW, enabling local firms, with their own history of fabrication expertise, to access specialised knowledge and skills in automation.

FIF will develop and implement solutions to industry challenges and provide demonstrations of technology and proof-of-concept, including prototype development. It will also support the adoption of new technology with technical education, training and certification support.

“Together, the University of Wollongong, TAFE NSW and Weld Australia will strive to secure the future of the Australian welding industry by producing highly skilled, qualified welding professionals, and delivering solutions that promote the adoption of advanced welding

technology such as robotics and automation,” said Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia).

The FIF offers a range of services, including: expert, research-backed advice on automation technology adoption and implementation; robotics and automation fabrication solutions; augmented reality welding training for apprentices and trainees and ongoing welding training certification; and industry linkages and partnerships that offer opportunities for collaboration and sharing of knowledge.

MoU with Fincantieri Australia In late February, Weld Australia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fincantieri Australia to explore cooperation in the design and development of new welding solutions and techniques for shipbuilding in Australia.

The agreement also involves Cetena (a subsidiary company of Fincantieri, which undertakes research and consultancy programs in the naval and maritime fields), and Istituto Italiano della Saldatura (IIS), the national institute of welding in Italy.

The organisations will develop new solutions and products, and study and implement innovative production techniques and processes across the naval shipbuilding industry.

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: The Changing Face of Australian Standards Australian Standards are dynamic documents, with changes constantly made to reflect progresses in science, technology and systems. To ensure their relevancy, Standards come under periodic review, with amendments and revised editions published. 2018 has been a busy year, with Standards related to pressure equipment, steel structures and several aged Standards undergoing review.

Aged Standards Amendments were made to several aged Standards throughout 2018.

After public review and balloting, the latest revision of ISO 13916 Welding – Guide on the measurement of preheating temperature, interpass temperature and preheat maintenance temperature was published as AS/NZS ISO 13916 on 7 August.

In the case of the AS/NZS 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials series of Standards, Parts 1 through 4 were reconfirmed until such time that ISO revises the primary ISO Standards.

As Part 5 has been recently revised, the revised ISO document has been submitted for adoption, together with the commentary ISO/TR 3834-6.

Weld Australia commenced discussions with Standards Australia and members of the ISO drafting committee responsible for the publication of ISO 3825 Gas welding equipment – Rubber hoses for welding, cutting and allied processes.

With the withdrawal of AS 1335 Hose and hose assemblies for welding, cutting and allied processes in 2016, it has been agreed that Australia’s best interests will be served by the adoption of ISO 3825. The actual mechanism to allow this process to occur has yet to be resolved.

However, it is anticipated that in due course a project to adopt ISO 3825 will be submitted to Standards Australia with the resultant draft being circulated for public comment once the project

is approved. In the interim, Weld Australia continues to recommend that only hoses compliant with AS 1335 or ISO 3825 be specified and purchased for welding and related process use.

it is being referenced in defence industry applications, it is now also a requirement in sections of the transport and bridge construction industries, and is referenced within AS/NZS 3992.

Pressure Equipment Drafting work continued on the revision of AS/NZS 3992 Pressure equipment— Welding and brazing qualification, and it is now substantially complete, with the drafting committee on track to commence the preparation of a public review draft in December.

Since the revision commenced, a number of errors and anomalies have been identified and are in the process of being corrected. It is also planned that additional guidance on the repair of in-service pressure equipment will be included, as well as taking cognisance of recent changes within the relevant ISO standards.

The Committee also completed its preparation of the draft revision of AS 2214 Certification of welding supervisors - Structural steel welding.

A public review draft has been prepared by Standards Australia and was released for comment in November.

Separate to the revision of AS/NZS 3992, work on the revision of AS 3788 Pressure equipment — In service inspection commenced and now work on the body of the standard is approximately 80% complete. Work is now underway on the revision of the Appendices.

Steel Structures Committee WD-003 published AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders - Fusion welding: Part 1 Steels in December 2017, as a direct adoption of the primary ISO Standard. The use of the Standard is rapidly gaining importance in Australia and New Zealand, hence the need for its adoption. Whilst

Sub-committee WD-003-02 prepared a draft revision of AS/NZS 1554.2 Structural steel welding – Part 2: Stud welding (steel studs to steel) and a project to formally revise the standard has been approved. It should be noted that the prepared draft included the option of referencing and/or the adoption of Standards such as ISO 13918 Welding – Studs and ceramic ferrules for arc stud welding and ISO 14555 Welding – Arc stud welding of metallic materials.

These latter options would provide the opportunity to address the stud welding of materials other than structural steels, upon which AS/NZS 1554.2 is currently silent.

Standards Australia Committee BD-001 completed the preparation of the draft revision of AS 4100 Steel structures, and AS/NZS 5131 Structural steelwork — Fabrication and erection, in order for the latter to be referenced within the Building Code of Australia. Preparation of the public review drafts is now well advanced.

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2018 Year In Review: Australian Standards

The Committee also submitted a project to Standards Australia to correct an error within AS/NZS 2980 Qualification of welders for fusion welding of steels – Additional requirements for Australia and New Zealand. Work is likely to commence in early 2019.

International Standards In February, Australia attended two ISO subcommittee meetings in Miami, in the US, and provided input into a working group meeting in Paris. Amongst other Standards, the revision of ISO 14731 Welding coordination – Tasks and responsibilities (a key reference to personnel requirements within ISO 3834) was advanced. In addition, the need to revise ISO 3834 has been identified, primarily due to changes within ISO 9001.

Australia also submitted end-user comments regarding ISO 9606-1, given its recent adoption, and these were well received by delegates.

ISO 9606-1 is currently being revised with a view to combining its five parts, and Australia’s comments will be considered during the development process.

In September, Australia attended a number of ISO committee meetings in Berlin to consider comments on Standards of interest to Australia.

Of significance, the revision of ISO 14731 was completed and this Standard will now most likely proceed to FDIS ballot. With publication due in mid 2019, adoption of this Standard in Australia is under consideration, particularly to benefit the increasing numbers of users of the AS/NZS ISO 3834 series of standards in Australia and New Zealand.

Also meeting in Berlin, Australia attended the annual plenary session of committee TC44 Welding and allied processes. This committee oversees the activities of 14 subcommittees with responsibilities including welding consumables

(SC3), weld testing (SC5), qualification standards (SC10, SC11) and so on. It also oversees liaisons with other committees, including the latest technology in additive manufacturing and Non-Destructive Testing techniques.

Importantly for Australia, it was resolved that the 2019 meeting of TC44 will be held in Sydney. It is likely that a number of sub-committees associated with TC44 will also elect to meet in Sydney in the same week, providing a unique opportunity for Australians to attend these meetings as both participants and observers.

2019 The coming year will be just as busy in terms of revisions and updates, with many of the proposed changes expected to be finalised and published in 2019. Australia will also continue to support the revisions to ISO standards relevant to Australia.

Weld Australia members will be kept informed through regular updates in Australian Welding magazine.

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by Weld Australia. It provides a national framework for qualifying and testing welders to International Standard AS/NZS ISO 9606-1, and provides a raft of benefits for welders and industry alike.

Go to www.awcr.org.au Click on ‘Click Here to Register’ Click on ‘Create an Account’ Enter your contact details Verify your email address Login and complete your profile

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: Weld Australia Industry Group Activities Weld Australia’s Industry Groups provide a forum for technology transfer and research and development, linking members with industry and research organisations. Weld Australia works with Industry Group members to ensure they remain diverse and resilient in the ever-changing and increasingly challenging global markets. Industry Group members engineer innovative solutions that enhance safety, manage risk, reduce cost, and optimise operating efficiency by: sharing the cost of implementing new technologies; developing best practices; and providing a forum to brainstorm common needs and effective solutions.

Defence Industry Group In August, the Defence Industry Group celebrated the launch of the first Defence Welding Hub in Perth.

Weld Australia is establishing a network of Defence Welding Hubs around Australia in order to facilitate and foster national and international collaboration across industries, promote technology transfer and commercialisation, and research and development projects.

Each hub will provide a focal point for defence welding activity through a network of contractors, subcontractors and relevant supporting organisations.

welding applications for defence industries; George Mifsud (Director, Indigenous Defence and Infrastructure Consortium) on indigenous participation in defence projects; Cameron Baker (Director, Victorian Skills Commission) and Mike Phelps (Manager Defence, Department of Economic Development) who spoke about Victoria’s support for the defence industry; and Graham Creed (Training Solutions Manager, Naval Shipbuilding College) who provided an overview of the Naval Shipbuilding College.

At the end of October, a highly successful Defence Industry Group meeting was held at Box Hill TAFE in Melbourne. David Lake (President, Weld Australia) opened the meeting, welcoming all in attendance.

To close the meeting, Craig Brittle (Head of Industry and Trades, Box Hill TAFE) facilitated a tour of the Advanced Welder Training Centre (AWTC) at Box Hill TAFE, complete with a demonstration of the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator.

Attendees were treated to several engaging presentations including: Murray Brown (Operations Manager – Delivery, Thales Australia) on the Bushmaster and Hawkei projects; Chris Brugeaud (CEO, SSS Manufacturing) on robot

Road and Rail Industry Group The Road and Rail Industry Group met in January in Sydney, and again in October in Brisbane. The meetings were attended by representatives from Austroads, Roads and Maritime Services (New South Wales),

VicRoads (Victoria), Transport and Main Roads (Queensland), the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (South Australia), and Main Roads (Western Australia).

The two major projects that progressed in 2018 were the Austroads Steel Fabrication Specification (ASFS), and the Austroads Stainless Steel Fabrication Specification.

Austroads Steel Fabrication Specification Collaborative work on the development of the ASFS was completed, and forwarded to the Austroads publication department.

This represents a significant milestone for the Group. The Austroads Working Group and the Austroads Bridge Task Force acknowledged the facilitation role played by Weld Australia in establishing and supporting the development of the ASFS. Austroads Stainless Steel Fabrication Specification Following the completion of the ASFS, members expressed the need to develop an Austroads Stainless Steel Fabrication Specification.

2018 Year In Review: Industry Groups

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To become a Weld Australia Industry Group member contact us via membership@ weldaustralia.com.au or +61 2 8748 0100.

This specification will set out the minimum requirements for the preparation, welding, inspection, testing, and final acceptance of stainless steel structures and components.

The objective of the specification is to provide rules for the welding of a wide range of stainless steel fabrications, applicable to both statically and dynamically loaded welds. This specification emphasises that weld preparations, welding consumables and welding procedures should be qualified before the commencement of welding.

Industry Group members are now sharing the task of developing the Austroads Stainless Steel and Aluminium Fabrication Specifications.

The development of a template for welding procedures was also discussed during the October meeting. This template will ensure that all parameters in a welding procedure can be automatically calculated to generate a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) based on the Procedure Qualification Record (PQR). Weld Australia will develop this template.

Power Technology Industry Group The Australian Power Technology Industry Group met at ALS in Newcastle in June. Attendees included representatives from AGL Energy, Engie, Energy Australia, NRG Gladstone Power Station, Stanwell

Corporation, CS Energy, Synergy, ANSTO, HRL Technology, ALS Global, Quest Integrity, Thornton Engineering and Weld Australia.

Ralph Villarosa (Chief Engineer Group Operations, AGL Energy) gave a presentation on the current challenges and opportunities within the power generation industry. Ralph focused on topics such as process safety, standards and industry hazards, highlighting suggested strategies that could be used to manage these hazards that rely heavily upon risk management.

Bruce Cannon (Technical Publications Manager, Weld Australia) provided feedback to all attendees regarding Weld Australia Technical Notes and Australian Standards.

Bruce commented on the slow, but steady, review of AS/NZS 3788 Pressure equipment - In-service inspection. Bruce also provided feedback on: the review of AS/NZS 3992 Pressure equipment - Welding and brazing qualification; the revision of AS 1796 Certification of welders and welding supervisors; and the Canadian test to quality butt and fillet welders on the same coupon using AS/NZS ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders Fusion welding.

Louise Petrick (Technology Manager, Weld Australia) provided feedback on the growth that has been seen regarding AS/NZS ISO 3834 applications and certifications. Weld

Australia is set to double the number of Australian companies certified to AS/NZS ISO 3834 this year. Louise also provided an update on two current Power Technology Industry Group projects: the Welding Procedure Database; and the Replication Project.

Under the Welding Procedure Database project, a shared database of welding procedures is being compiled. This database will be made accessible to all Industry Group members, saving them significant time and cost in the development of qualified welding procedure specifications.

The Replication Project involves the development of a scheme to certify metallographic replica personnel and companies, while providing the members with a thorough knowledge of the technology, including an understanding of the areas, parts and components subject to aging and creep phenomena.

Chris Jones (Materials Engineer, Quest Integrity Group) presented on ultrasonic inspections, including the uses for this type of inspection, and how to validate for accurate inspection results. ALS also demonstrated their drone, and other inspection technology, including automated phased array.

In 2019, the Power Technology Industry Group will place a large focus on variable operations with specific seminars on cyclic and lowload operations.

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2018: What Weld Australia Members Have to Say Weld Australia Member Testimonials Weld Australia’s members are made up of individual welding professionals, as well as companies of all sizes. In fact, Weld Australia members are involved in almost every facet of Australian industry and make a significant contribution to the nation’s economy. We recently spoke with a number of our members, eliciting their feedback on our activities, services and membership benefits. This is what they had to say.

Phillip Campbell OAM, General Manager Technical Standards, ARTC “The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) manages and maintains some 8,500km of rail track throughout Australia, ranging from Brisbane through to Kalgoorlie in Western Australia.”

“While there are some sections that are jointed, the majority of this rail track is welded. As such, we regularly undertake welding.

For instance, we recently had one project that required over 40,000 welds.”

“Given our reliance on welding, the reason we joined Weld Australia was to ensure that we have access to the latest information about improvements in welding techniques, so that we can then take advantage of these techniques in our work.”

“The two main member benefits that we find most advantageous are Weld Australia’s regular Weld Connect online newsletter—which provides a lot of valuable information that we circulate to our employees involved in welding—and the speciality presentations on topics such as new

steels and welding processes. We often take advantage of attending these technical events.”

“The work of Weld Australia benefits the Australian industry as a whole in two ways. The first is their provision of a body of technical knowledge.

The second is their advocacy activities. Weld Australia works to ensure that Australia has a strong welding capability, that fabrication can continue to occur in this country, and that we have the proper training to support a vibrant industry.”

“Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia) has also provided us with helpful advice. ARTC has been looking at the way in which we identify welds out in the field. Geoff provided some ideas on how to do this utilising special magnetic barcodes placed on the rails. We are currently looking at the practicality of this solution and trialling the barcodes. Geoff was particularly helpful in sourcing a barcode suitable for the task.”

Paul Court, General Manager, Maxcon Industries “Given that Maxcon Industries prides itself on being at the forefront

of innovative manufacturing, we understand that it is essential for us to partner with other organisations that have a similar outlook and synergy. Weld Australia has many synergies with what we want to do in terms of innovation. As such, it makes complete sense for us to partner with Weld Australia in everything we do.”

“We’ve had a very long involvement with Weld Australia—and previously with the WTIA. We even accessed their consulting services in relation to some vessels we were working on. Their technical advice has always been extremely helpful.”

“The work that Weld Australia carries out definitely benefits the Australian welding industry as a whole. Every industry needs a peak body that is focused on moving the industry forward, on innovating. Weld Australia certainly fulfils that role for the Australian welding industry.”

“Maxcon Industries was lucky enough to win the 2018 Fabricator of the Year Award. This is a really great honour for us. To be recognised by an organisation as well-known and well-respected as Weld Australia is amazing. It really is an amazing

Inside WeldInAustralia: MemberTestimonials Testimonials 2018 Year Review: Member

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Image credit: ©Commonwealth of Australia

milestone for our company—and we have been operating in the industry for over 40 years now.”

“Winning the Weld Australia Fabricator of the Year Award is a massive honour for our company.”

Brian Rungie, Executive Director, Education, TAFE SA, “TAFE SA has been associated with Weld Australia for many years.

With the announcement of the construction of the Future Frigates and Submarines in Adelaide, South Australia we chose to expand our relationship with Weld Australia due to its national reach, international connections, and wide-spread recognition across the industry.”

“Being an educational institution, we are developing the next group of skilled workers or supporting the upskilling of existing workers already within the industry. Weld Australia gives us a conduit through which to communicate to industry and helps us ensure TAFE SA graduates have the skill and knowledge industry is looking for.”

“Weld Australia acts as a kind of translator for us—translating the

technical capability industry is looking for into training standards TAFE SA needs to deliver and the standards students need to achieve.”

“Weld Australia has been critical in helping the various training departments of government understand the requirements and standards needed by Australia’s workforce. This includes the nature and intensity of the training needed and how this can lead to lags before the workforce is ready.”

“Because Weld Australia is an industry association and not a training institute (and therefore does not have a vested interest), they are able to provide expert independent advice that is accepted in multiple scenarios by training institutions and governments alike. They’ve been able to influence government policy, priorities, and even funding decisions.”

“Weld Australia has also helped some of the big defence primes

Weld Australia Membership Types •

Individual Membership: Individual membership is open to apprentices, tradesmen, inspectors, supervisors, technologists, engineers, academics and others with an interest in welding.

•

Corporate Membership: Corporate membership is open to all companies associated with welding or related activities.

•

Industry Groups Membership: Industry Groups identify and meet the critical welding needs of key Australian markets, such as mining, power, construction, defence, and oil and gas.

•

Free Apprentice Membership: As part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled welders in Australia, Weld Australia is pleased to offer apprentice welders free membership.

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Free TAFE Membership: Weld Australia is proud to support, and encourage development of, Australian TAFEs and their teachers, which is why we are pleased to offer free membership to both.

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understand the true nature of the Australian labour force and its capability. They’ve helped us understand the welding procedures shipyards and industry will be looking for so we start converting this information into training curriculum. As a result, when people come out of our institution, they are that more job ready.”

Craig Brittle, Dean of Faculty, Trades, Technology and Transport, Box Hill TAFE “Our experience with Weld Australia has been extremely positive and successful. As a government RTO working with an organisation that has a membership type model, we’ve found that Weld Australia has really supported us, particularly in helping spread the word about Box Hill TAFE and our new courses.”

“Weld Australia also worked very closely with us to secure state government funding to establish an Advanced Welder Training Centre at our Elgar Road campus.”

“From my perspective as the Dean,

Copyright © 2018 Rio Tinto.

Australian Welding: December 2018

as well as based on feedback from several of our staff, our relationship with Weld Australia has provided Box Hill TAFE, and its students, with very positive outcomes.”

“Weld Australia informs us about the direction that industry is taking and about the skills that are required for the future. We are then able to use that information to shape how we respond to the market. It is essential for us to have someone so close to industry informing us—it enables us to shape our business to suit.”

“One thing that industry often says is that TAFEs and RTOs don’t work closely enough with industry. What has happened in the past is that TAFEs have provided training that is not in tune with what industry needs, particularly in terms of ensuring that graduates are work-ready and have the skills that can be transferred directly into on-the-job roles. Our relationship with Weld Australia enables us to be more in tune with industry needs, which positions us exceptionally well within the marketplace.”

Chris Brugeaud, Chief Executive Officer, SSS Manufacturing and IR4 “SSS Manufacturing has been a Weld Australia member for some time now. One of the major reasons we decided to join was to take advantage of the networking opportunities and industry engagement functions that Weld Australia provides.”

“The project that we are undertaking, in conjunction with global defence prime Rheinmetall, is a direct result of our relationship with Weld Australia.”

“Weld Australia had been working closely with Rheinmetall on the certification of welders to ISO 9606 and organisations to DIN 2303 as part of Rheinmetall’s recruitment plan for its new Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Queensland, as well as its future supply chain. Rheinmetall was looking for a welding automation capability that had the flexibility to address all their production requirements. Weld Australia knew

2018 Year In Review: Member Testimonials

that IR4 and SSS Manufacturing could deliver a highly flexible welding automation capability. And so, Weld Australia introduced us to Rheinmetall.”

“As a result, Rheinmetall has engaged us to develop a demonstration cell, which includes a gantry system and robots that utilise IR4 software. The purpose of the cell is to validate that our technology can automate specific production processes for the Land 400 program. Once successful, our technology is expected to be installed at MILVEHCOE with a view to also providing installation into Rheinmetall’s facilities in Germany.”

“In addition to the highly valuable networking opportunities offered by a Weld Australia membership, there is a raft of other benefits.

We regularly attend Weld Australia events, as well as supporting their events. We’ve previously hosted a technical evening and site tour at our facility on behalf of Weld Australia.

Hosting this event not only gave us exposure to the broader welding

industry, but it also gave Weld Australia access to our facilities— they were able to see first-hand what our capabilities are like, enabling them to then recommend us to companies such as Rheinmetall.”

“There is no doubt that Weld Australia’s activities benefit the broader welding and industrial sectors. Weld Australia is the single largest industry advocate. They are vital in promoting and further developing industry capability to deliver against major projects in Australia that have critical deliverables associated with weld technology and resources.”

“With their establishment of Advanced Welder Training Centres, Weld Australia has been instrumental in ensuring that Australia has the volume of qualified welders that will be required to deliver the significant infrastructure and defence projects that are on the horizon. Importantly, Weld Australia promotes and supports the growth and application of automation to the benefit of Australian SMEs.”

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Join Weld Australia Today Weld Australia membership is an investment in the success of your career or the success of your business. We will help you increase your income, decrease your costs and give you a competitive advantage over companies or people who are not Weld Australia members.

A Weld Australia membership delivers: • Community and networking opportunities • Widespread credibility • Visibility within the industrial sector • Career opportunities and professional development • Industry insights and knowledge sharing • Expert help and technical advice • Collective power To join Weld Australia: • Visit: weldaustralia.com.au • Email: membership@ weldaustralia.com.au • Call: +61 (0)2 8748 0100

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Australian Welding: December 2018

2019 & Beyond: The Industry Outlook Australia is home to some of the most volatile manufacturing industries in the industrialised world.

Analysis commissioned by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) found that local manufacturers have experienced much larger changes in fortune over the past three decades than their counterparts in other advanced economies. Despite this volatility, the outlook for Australian manufacturing and fabrication is quite positive, particularly if issues such as energy security and technical training are addressed.

Over recent decades, average output across Australian manufacturing sub-industries has swelled to 20% above trend during economic upswings, while contracting to 20% below this level during downturns.

This compares with much more modest deviations of 14% in the United Kingdom, 10% in the US, and 8% in Germany.

Yet, despite this long-term volatility, the last 12 months has seen strong performance in Australia’s manufacturing industry.

According to Jens Goennemann (Managing Director, Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre), “2018 has been a year of innovation, transformation and growth for Australian manufacturing.

The Australian Industry Group’s Australian Performance of Manufacturing Index (Australian PMI®) remains in an expanding position at 51.3 marking 26 months’ consecutive growth across the manufacturing sector—the longest run of expansion since 2005.”

“In tandem with this growth, the manufacturing sector added over 100,000 new jobs this year alone and is now responsible for employing more than 1.3 million Australians, equivalent to over 10% of our country’s total workforce.”

“This revitalised manufacturing industry performance is positive news for the sector. It reflects burgeoning confidence levels across

Australia’s entire economy and is indicative of the changing nature and advancement of manufacturing in Australia,” said Goennemann.

“I believe 2018 will be viewed as the turning point in our industry. Overall, the perception of manufacturing has shifted. The very nature of the industry itself is transforming, and there are clear signs of expansion and prosperity. Australians realise that manufacturing stands for opportunity, and have a government that is committed to supporting business in general and manufacturing in particular.”

“As we embark on a new year, we need to challenge ourselves as an

industry to think differently about manufacturing.”

“According to figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, it is estimated that less than half of local manufacturers are innovating or using highly specialised products and processes where Australian expertise is the source of competitive advantage. And, of these local businesses that are innovating, only one in five collaborated with other organisations when innovating.”

“Compared to our international counterparts, Australia ranks somewhere in the middle of OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development)

“

This revitalised manufacturing industry performance is positive news for the sector. It reflects burgeoning confidence levels across Australia’s entire economy and is indicative of the changing nature and advancement of manufacturing in Australia,” said Goennemann.

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2019 Industry Outlook

countries when it comes to the ability to innovate. While we remain ahead of the United States and the Russian Federation, we still lag behind the likes of Ireland, France, Sweden and Austria.”

“While, at first glance, this statistical snapshot may seem discouraging, in truth, it paints an extremely optimistic picture. These figures indicate that the scope and potential for innovation and collaboration, and the development of a worldleading advanced manufacturing sector in Australia is enormous,” said Goennemann.

The Promise of Transformation According to the 8th edition of KPMG’s Global Manufacturing Outlook report, there is no time to waste in building a comprehensive digital transformation strategy. Global manufacturing is being disrupted to its foundations and industrial demarcation lines are blurring.

The fourth industrial revolution is dramatically changing the barriers to entry and is expected to lead to the reshaping of many companies — and even entire industries. But this is an ‘opportunity and not a threat’ said 95% of the CEO respondents to KPMG’s recent survey.

The game-changing tools around data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), advanced robotics, augmented reality and others promise great benefits when they are combined

with the connective power of the Internet of Things (IoT). But the manufacturing CEOs surveyed in KPMG’s latest poll (as part of a wider survey of a total of 1,300 CEOs) do not expect to realise them quickly, even though they are under pressure from investors for rapid results.

most effectively. Despite fears frequently expressed in the media that AI and other digital technologies will lead to the loss of millions of jobs, manufacturing CEOs take a more sanguine view; 64% of CEOs surveyed by KPMG believe that AI will create more jobs than it eliminates.

Digital transformation is clearly a long-term commitment, and one of the many tasks CEOs must undertake is to persuade stakeholders to be patient, while they lead their organisations on the exciting and challenging journey. It is a journey that can drive growth to levels not achievable under current business models and strategies.

Are CEOs being excessively optimistic? “Not at all,” said Tom Mayor (Practice Leader, Industrial Manufacturing Strategy, KPMG).

“Digital transformation has been mixed in terms of the speed of deployment across manufacturers,” said Doug Gates (Global Chair, Industrial Manufacturing, KPMG).

“Some have organised well and jumped on it. Some have gone on a technology splurge, but ROI has been elusive. And many are still struggling to decide what to do and where to start. The right first step is to lay out a long-term strategy and roadmap. Start the journey with steps that will achieve near-term value, while laying the foundation for new business opportunities that will come from interconnectivity and a broad access to data and information.”

According to KPMG, successful manufacturers will be those that blend artificial and human intelligence

“We have compelling evidence through the Industrial and Agricultural Revolutions, and, more recently, the rise of the internet and e-commerce, that people and economies are infinitely creative.

There is always fear of the unknown about technology driven employment crises, but at the end of the day these types of new technologies drive growth and whole new industries arise,” said Mayor.

However, workers will need extensive retraining if they are to move into new jobs that robots cannot perform.

Organisations will have to retool the capabilities of their workers and educate them on new roles introduced through digital transformation. Many organisations are struggling with it. To manage digital transformation, companies will need people with the skills to fully use the new technologies.

“Manufacturers are going to struggle to attract the talent they need to accelerate their

40

Australian Welding: December 2018

“

No sector feels the pain of the failure of vocational training more than manufacturing, precisely because advanced skills are so essential for the success of advanced manufacturing techniques,” said Stanford.

digitalisation strategies,” said David Neely, (Managing Director, Digital Enablement, KPMG). “But by staying ahead of the curve, they will be better able to compete for the skilled people looking for an exciting career path.”

A Government Perspective The Hon Karen Andrews MP, Minister for Industry, Science and Technology is equally as positive about the future of industry. “Australia’s economy continues to show strength and resilience, with industries across the board proving their capacity for innovation and adaptability. Over the past year, the economy has grown by 3.4%. This is the strongest growth since the height of the mining and investment boom in 2012, and is backed up by strong jobs growth and investment by industry.”

“The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring we have the right policies and conditions to enable industry and businesses to succeed. We are working with the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity, established by G20 Leaders, to tackle excess capacity issues. The Government has also strengthened the Anti-Dumping system to ensure a level-playing field for Australian manufacturers, of which the steel industry is the biggest beneficiary.”

“We are also investing more than $200 billion over the coming decade in strengthening our defence capabilities. This investment is

opening up opportunities for industry to innovate and take advantage of new technologies.”

“For example, Bisalloy Steel has achieved a major milestone with sales of defence grade steel. They are supplying products for Defence projects including the Hawkei and BOXER vehicles, and trial steel for the Future Submarines. For the company’s Unanderra manufacturing plant in New South Wales, this means more jobs and greater productivity. It is companies like Bisalloy and other steel manufacturers that are driving employment and economic growth, and securing the future of Australian industry.”

“As digital technologies are revolutionising products, processes and services, the Government is working to make sure all Australian industries can take advantage of their opportunities. We are investing in building a strong scientific capability and supporting business innovation and the commercialisation of new ideas, to help businesses grow, create jobs and encourage skills development,” said Andrews.

According to AMGC, the Australian Government has a role to play in supporting manufacturing companies to become more resilient. “Programs and advice offered through the variety of Commonwealth and State initiatives must align with competitiveness and resilience priorities to boost longer-term

performance,” said Goennemann.

“The Government should reconsider how their incentives can encourage greater commercial outcomes resulting from industry and research institution co-operation; and reconstitute teaching methods to lift our vocational and tertiary level curriculum. Better business training for seasoned managers can be included,” said Goennemann.

Barriers to Success Australia’s manufacturing industry has survived a difficult period, in the face of both domestic and global challenges. However, several indicators suggest that the opportunities in manufacturing have improved significantly. Employment has increased over the last few years, exports and profits have expanded, and business confidence is positive. Yet, there are two major constraints holding back Australia’s manufacturing industry: energy insecurity and fragmented skills and training.

Energy Insecurity Australia’s energy supply is among the world’s costliest and dirtiest.

It has also become increasingly unreliable, with regulators recently warning a gas shortfall on the east coast is highly likely this year.

The increasing cost and unreliability of Australia’s energy supply is putting Australian manufacturing under considerable pressure, undermining the sector’s competitiveness in

2019 Industry Outlook

today’s global market.

According to Professor Ross Garnaut (President, SIMEC ZEN Energy), “Ten years ago Australia had the developed world’s cheapest natural gas – about a third of prices in the US. Today, our prices are about three times higher than in the US,” said Garnaut.

However, growth is possible through renewable energy sources, balancing the intermittence of these sources with battery technologies. Garnaut says Australia has a comparative advantage in the new world of renewables. “Nowhere in the developed world are solar and wind resources together so abundant as in the west-facing coasts and peninsulas of southern Australia.

South Australian resources are particularly rich.”

“Play our cards right, and Australia’s exceptionally rich endowment per person in renewable energy resources makes us a low-cost location for energy supply in a low-carbon world economy,” said Garnaut. “That would make us the economically rational location within the developed world of a high proportion of energy-intensive processing and manufacturing activity.”

Fragmented Skills and Training A new report released by the Australian Industry Group in September identified critical skill issues facing Australian businesses.

According to Skilling: A National Imperative, 75% of employers are

reporting skill shortages and 99% are impacted by low levels of literacy and numeracy.

These significant findings from the Australian Industry (Ai) Group’s 2018 Workforce Development Needs Survey Report come at a time when digital technologies are increasingly disrupting workplace environments, and when education and training is being recognised as one of the most important enablers for successful, future-focused companies.

“It is clear we need new approaches to education, training and reskilling to maximise the benefits of the digital economy. This is particularly important as employers reshape workforce capabilities and seek higher level skills, advanced technical and soft skills, digital literacy and changed management know-how,” said Innes Willox (Chief Executive, Ai Group).

Willox stressed, “Our survey has found major skills demand issues facing employers. It provides an important gauge of employer sentiment around skill needs, education and training at a critical time for industry transformation.

Without conducive policy settings and closer collaboration between industry and education sectors to drive education and training that adapts quickly to the needs of the digital economy, Australia’s business sector will suffer competitively into the future,” Willox said.

The Centre for Future Work’s report Advanced Skills for Advanced

41

Manufacturing: Rebuilding Vocational Training in a Transforming Industry came to a similar conclusion.

According to Dr Jim Stanford (Economist and Director, Centre for Future Work), “Manufacturing is again making a positive contribution to Australia’s economic progress after over a decade of decline.

We don’t want to squander this potential,” said Stanford.

“If Australia doesn’t get its act together on vocational training, this will be a wasted opportunity for manufacturing.”

“Recent experiments with marketbased vocational training have been a waste, they have damaged confidence in the skills system among both potential students and employers. Stable, well-funded, high-quality public institutions must be the anchors of any successful VET system. Public institutions are the only ones with the resources, the connections, and the stability to provide manufacturers with a steady supply of world-class skilled workers.”

“No sector feels the pain of the failure of vocational training more than manufacturing, precisely because advanced skills are so essential for the success of advanced manufacturing techniques.

Manufacturing stakeholders need to work together to strengthen vocational education and training,” said Stanford.

Sources:

Advanced Manufacturing: Building Resilience in Australian Manufacturing, Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, 2018

Advanced Skills for Advanced Manufacturing: Rebuilding Vocational Training in a Transforming Industry, Centre for Future Work, 2018 australian Steel, Australian Steel Institute (ASI), September 2018 Global Manufacturing Outlook, KPMG, 2018

2018 Workforce Development Needs Survey Report, Australian Industry (Ai) Group, 2018

42

Australian Welding: December 2018

2019: Weld Australia’s Strategic Plan Weld Australia’s 2018-2022 Strategic Plan is designed to generate consistent growth, ensuring that Weld Australia is sustainable and can reinvest in the welding industry in Australia. The Strategic Plan is based on Weld Australia’s value proposition, as well as its mission to represent the interests of members and safeguard the public by ensuring the integrity of in-service welds.

The Strategic Plan is also designed to promote the use of advanced technologies, and best practice quality and certification systems.

Advocacy & Lobbying Weld Australia actively raises the welding industry’s profile, and advocates for industry issues, by liaising with key decision makers and lobbying State and Federal Governments. Our advocacy and lobbying activity is committed to improving the competitiveness of Australian manufacturing, particularly through ‘onshoring’ and improved technical training.

Some of the issues on which Weld Australia will concentrate include: • Maintaining Australian market share of the total global steel fabrication market at rates above 75% (1.5Mt) • Government funding for a national network of Advanced Welder Training Centres • Regulations or legislation that forces compliance to Australian Standards through a properly established third-party certification scheme • Government incentives for the introduction of welding technology associated with Industry 4.0 and contribution towards both individual and company certification costs Certification & Qualification A major focus of Weld Australia’s Strategic Plan is certification, including individual welder certification to ISO 9606 Qualification testing of welders - Fusion welding.

Welders can expect to gain myriad

benefits from ISO 9606 certification, such as international recognition of skills and training, and improved employability and earning potential.

Weld Australia will also focus on promoting company certification to: • AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials • EN 15085 Railway Applications Welding of Railway Vehicles and Components • DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes - Quality requirements for production and maintenance companies for military products As the minimum benchmark for welding quality globally, AS/NZS ISO 3834 confers internationally recognised credibility and capability, giving Australian fabricators the opportunity and ability to expand into new markets. It also ensures fabricators are utilising efficient processes and procedures that reduce production time, costs and overheads, material and consumables waste, nonconformance and rework.

Similarly, EN 15085 certification will enable Australian fabricators to participate in large, profitable international supply chains. With most railway vehicles currently in service in Australia being designed and manufactured internationally according to EN 15085, this certification will ensure that Australian fabricators’ capabilities

to maintain our fleet of trains are recognised and acknowledged.

All of these types of certification are essential to securing the future of welding in Australia, as well as ensuring the integrity of in-service welds, and the safety of the general public. Given the importance of these certifications, Weld Australia will develop and implement a number of programs to maximise certification numbers nationwide.

In 2019, it is Weld Australia’s intention to have welding qualifications and certifications formally recognised in legislation that forces compliance to Australian Standards through a properly established third-party certification scheme. We believe that this can be achieved through relatively minor changes in procurement and WorkSafe legislation.

Weld Australia will also promote the importance of the roles of Welding Inspector and Supervisor, particularly in safeguarding the public.

Advanced Welder Training Centres (AWTCs) Over the last 12 months, Weld Australia has secured over $4.3 million in State and Federal Government funding for the establishment of five AWTCs across the nation. Over the coming year, Weld Australia will continue to work with TAFEs across the nation to open those AWTCs that have

2019 Industry Outlook: Weld Australia’s Strategic Plan

already received funding, and lobby governments to establish even more AWTCs throughout Australia.

Expansion of Industry Groups Weld Australia currently facilities several specialised Industry Groups, which provide a forum for technology transfer and research and development, linking members with industry and research organisations.

Weld Australia works with Industry Group members to ensure they remain diverse and resilient in the ever-changing and increasingly challenging global markets.

Industry Group members engineer innovative solutions that enhance safety, manage risk, reduce cost, and optimise operating efficiency by: sharing the cost of implementing new technologies; developing best practices; and providing a forum to brainstorm effective solutions.

In the year ahead, Weld Australia will significantly expand the existing Power Technology Industry Group,

and launch a new Rolling Stock Industry Group.

Member Services Weld Australia will continue to provide high quality member services and advice. We will continue to bring individual and company members together into a collaborative community to deliver: • A forum for the exchange of ideas and sharing of resources • A voice to promote the interests of the welding community and shape the market for welding services • Specialist technical problem solving and a conduit between industry and research organisations • A pathway for learning and career development and the opportunity to benchmark against world’s best practice Advanced Technologies Also high on Weld Australia’s priority list are new joining processes, technologies and materials. It

43

is through the adoption of new technologies (such as robotics and augmented reality), and new ways of performing traditional processes (such as Industry 4.0, advanced manufacturing, and the use of drones to undertake welding inspection) that the Australian welding industry will be able to compete on a global scale.

In industries such as defence, aerospace and infrastructure, advanced technologies will take on even greater importance in the coming years.

It is for this reason that Weld Australia will continue to promote the use of augmented reality welding simulators in welder training, and work to establish a scheme that will see robotics courses taught at TAFEs nation-wide.

We will also advocate for government incentives for the introduction of welding technology associated with Industry 4.0 and contribution towards both individual and company certification costs.

“

In 2019, it is Weld Australia’s intention to have welding qualifications and certifications formally recognised in legislation that forces compliance to Australian Standards through a properly established thirdparty certification scheme.”

44

Australian Welding: December 2018

Meet Weld Australia’s President: David Lake With over 40 years’ industry experience, David Lake is Weld Australia’s President. For the past ten years, David was the Managing Director of ATTAR (Advanced Technology Testing and Research). Prior to this, he held Victorian senior operations management roles with Austral Bricks, Fletcher Insulation, Olex Cables, and was an engineer at companies such as BHP Steel, NABALCO Alumina Refinery and Bauxite Mine, United Peripherals and ITT Components Group Europe. According to David, his diverse array of roles in many different sectors has taught him to look for solutions outside his immediate work environments.

For many years, David was a metallurgist and welding inspector, responsible for writing and approving weld procedures and specifications in the mining and refining industries. He also led operations in manufacturing of electric cables, insulation products, bricks and masonry.

He developed a significant technical body of knowledge in areas such as engineering, research and development, materials science and general engineering, particularly in asset conditioning monitoring, and non-destructive testing in the mining and industrial sectors. As the Managing Director of ATTAR and in his other senior operations

roles, David has led significant organisational change management programs, designed to introduce a culture of constant improvement.

David is also the President of the Forensic Engineering Society of Australia, a board member of the Australian Institute for the Certification of Inspection Personnel (ACIP), and an active member of the Australian Corrosion Association (ACA) and Engineers Australia.

What inspired you to choose a career in science and engineering?

As a young person, I was fascinated by science fiction, and loved taking things apart. I wanted to decipher

how things worked. I then started making electronics from kits, and soon wanted to understand how everything worked. So, I took up maths and science at secondary school, and joined the science clubs, where I had the opportunity to explore physics and experiment with chemicals. For me, there was really only one study and career path to follow. So, I obtained a Bachelor of Science and Engineering (Hons) from Leeds University in the United Kingdom.

Who or what has influenced you most professionally?

I was lucky—in all the early jobs in my career, I had more ‘mature’ managers and mentors. They gave

“

For welders, certification can help boost your earning potential, give you better job stability and make you the preferred candidate for large-scale welding projects around the globe.”

Inside Weld Australia: Meet Weld Australia’s President

45

me great advice, shared enormous amounts of their technical knowhow and trusted me to achieve the outcomes that were necessary for the particular project on which I was working.

In addition to this, throughout my career I have had the opportunity to move freely between technologies and industries. This has not only broadened my knowledge and skillsets, it has helped to influence and shape my career.

What is the most challenging project you’ve worked on? Why? My time as a business ‘Change Manager’ with BHP Steel and Pacific Dunlop would have to be the most challenging projects that I’ve worked on. In these roles, I had responsibility for leading major change management projects, which entirely altered how the businesses operated. I relied heavily upon management utilising facts, data and statistics as management decisionmaking tools, whilst involving as many of the employees as could be persuaded to improve their parts of the business. I relied upon an extremely collaborative approach, conscious to secure buy-in from across all levels of the business.

The most challenging aspect of these projects, for me, was that people—especially large groups of people—are much more complex and unpredictable than even the most difficult technical problem.

What is your greatest professional achievement?

My greatest professional achievement is the fact that I have enjoyed my working life immensely.

In addition to this, I am grateful that I have had the opportunity to take on leadership positions in which I was able to contribute to turning businesses around, ensuring that good people retained their jobs.

What are you most optimistic about for the future of welding?

High technology manufacturing is growing in Australia. When combined with the Government deciding

David Lake, President, Weld Australia

to develop our nation’s defence manufacturing capability, in addition to spending on infrastructure (with a minimum level of Australian content), there is a strong base from which to grow the Australian welding industry.

qualified and certified to ISO 9606, and fabricators certified to ISO 3834.

Weld Australia offers certification and registration of welders via the Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR).

I have, for many years, been involved in the training of technicians, and it is great to see that Weld Australia is being supported by both State and Federal Governments (predominantly through the TAFE system) in introducing state-of-the-art welder training. This training utilises augmented reality classroom training capabilities, which have the potential to attract young people into our industry and facilitate the upskilling of existing welders in the workforce.

This will enable the Australian welding industry to meet both new and existing challenges.

With these certifications come a range of benefits. For welders, certification can help boost your earning potential, give you better job stability and make you the preferred candidate for large-scale welding projects around the globe.

Where do you believe the greatest opportunities lie for Australian welders and fabricators?

Australian welders and fabricators need to grasp the opportunities that are currently available in sectors as diverse as infrastructure, defence and rolling stock. To do this most effectively, welders need to be

For fabricators, there is internationally recognised credibility and capability, and therefore the opportunity and ability to expand into new markets, with several sectors and major international contractors requiring that all subcontractors hold AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification.

In addition, certification invariably leads to more efficient processes and procedures, that reduce production time, costs and overheads, materials and consumables, waste, nonconformance and rework. All this improves client satisfaction, which can increase the likelihood of repeat business and growth in profitability.

46

Australian Welding: December 2018

Member Directory Weld Australia is dedicated to providing members with a competitive advantage through access to industry, research, education, government, and the wider welding community.

When you join Weld Australia, you become part of a network of engaged companies and individuals, with which you can share technology transfer, best practices, and professional opportunities. For further information, please contact membership@weldaustralia.com.au or +61 (0)2 8748 0100.

Weld Australia Industry Group Members Weld Australia hosts and administers several Industry Groups, providing a forum for technology transfer and R&D, linking members with industry and research organisations. The Weld Australia Industry Groups: represent a source of vital technical welding information; optimise welding practices through standard development and tools; and assist members to prepare specifications.

AGL Energy www.agl.com.au 131 245 customer.solutions@agl.com.au

Transport and Main Roads (Queensland) www.tmr.qld.gov.au +61 7 3066 6358 TMRStructuralMaterials@tmr.qld.gov.au

ANSTO www.ansto.gov.au +61 2 9717 3111 enquiries@ansto.gov.au

NRG Gladstone Operating Service www.nrggos.com.au +61 7 4976 5211 cmcguinn@nrggos.com.au

ASC www.asc.com.au +61 8 8348 7000 David.Price@asc.com.au

Stanwell Corporation www.stanwell.com 1800 300 351 www.stanwell.com/contact-us

Ausgrid www.ausgrid.com.au +61 2 4951 9555 cchiodi@ausgrid.com.au

Synergy www.synergy.net.au +61 8 9781 6720 Doug.Harman@synergy.net.au

Austal www.austal.com +61 8 9410 1111 info@austal.com

Thales Australia www.thalesgroup.com +61 2 8037 6000 MaritimeBusinessSupport@thalesgroup.com.au

CB&I www.cbi.com +61 8 93245555 www.cbi.com/contact

Transport for NSW www.transport.nsw.gov.au +62 2 8202 2200 stakeholder.relations@transport.nsw.gov.au

CS Energy www.csenergy.com.au +61 7 3854 7777 energyinfo@csenergy.com.au

Vales Point Power Station (Delta) www.de.com.au +61 2 4352 6111 info@de.com.au

Energy Australia www.energyaustralia.com.au 133 466 Wayne.Hill@energyaustraliansw.com.au

VicRoads www.vicroads.vic.gov.au +61 3 8391 3216 vicroadstechnicalservices@roads.vic.gov.au

IPM Operation & Maintenance Loy Yang www.gdfsuezau.com +61 3 5177 2000 www.gdfsuezau.com/contact-us/Contacts

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Inside Weld Australia: Member Directory

Premium Corporate Members ALS Industrial www.alsglobal.com/au +61 2 4922 2400 powerservices@alsglobal.com APMI www.apmi.com.au +61 3 8791 7555 info@apmi.com.au Applied Ultrasonics Australia www.appliedultrasonics.com.au +61 2 9986 2133 info@appliedultrasonics.com.au Arrium (One Steel) www.onesteel.com 1800 178 335 capital@onesteel.com Austal Ships www.austal.com +61 8 9410 1111 info@austal.com BlueScope Steel www.bluescopesteel.com.au 1800 800 789 steeldirect@bluescopesteel.com Baker & Provan www.bakerprovan.com.au +61 2 8801 9000 info@bakerprovan.com.au BOC www.boc-limited.com.au +61 2 8874 4400 contact@boc.com Callidus Welding Solutions http://callidusgroup.com.au +61 8 6241 0799 info@callidusgroup.com.au

CIGWELD www.cigweld.com.au 1300 654 674 enquiries@cigweld.com.au

MMG www.mmg.com +61 3 9288 0888 info@mmg.com

Coregas http://coregas.com.au +61 2 9794 2222 info@coregas.com

QENOS www.qenos.com +61 3 9258 7333 enquiry@qenos.com

Hardchrome Engineering www.hardchrome.com.au +61 3 9561 9555 office@hardchrome.com.au

Quest Integrity Group www.questintegrity.com +61 7 5507 7900 Info-APAC@questintegrity.com

Howden Australia www.howden.com +61 2 8844 9100 sales@howden.com.au

Santos www.santos.com +61 8 8116 5000 reception.ade@santos.com

HRL Technology Group www.hrlt.com.au 1800 475 832 info@hrl.com.au

Tronox Management www.tronox.com +61 8 9411 1444 info@tronox.com

Kemppi Australia www.kemppi.com +61 2 87852000 sales.au@kemppi.com

UGL Pty Limited www.ugllimited.com +61 2 8925 8925 uglinfo@ugllimited.com

Lincoln Electric www.lincolnelectric.com +61 2 9772 7222 sales@lincolnelectric.com.au

Water Corporation of WA www.watercorporation.com.au + 61 8 9423 7777 darren.vile@watercorporation.com.au

LMATS http://lmats.com.au +61 8 9200 2231 admin@lmats.com.au

Welding Industries of Australia (WIA) www.welding.com.au 1300 300 884 info@welding.com.au

Main Roads Western Australia www.mainroads.wa.gov.au 138 138 enquiries@mainroads.wa.gov.au

Wilmar Sugar www.wilmarsugarmills.com.au +61 7 4722 1972 info@wilmar.com.au

Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems www.anz.mhps.com +61 7 3878 0888 general@anz.mhps.com

Join Weld Australia Today.

Help Secure the Future of

Australian Welding +61 (0)2 8748 0100

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membership@weldaustralia.com.au

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Corporate Members 3M Australia: 3m.com.au A & B Welding: abwelding.com.au A&G Engineering: agengineering.com.au Abrasion Resistant Materials: arm.com.au Able Industries Engineering: ableind.com.au Adept Inspections & Training: adeptengineering.com.au Aerison: aerison.com Aitken Welding: aitkenwelding.com Alltek Welding: alltek.net.au Ancon Building Products: ancon.com.au Antec Group: antec.com.au ARL Laboratory Services: arllabservices.com.au ASME Projects: asmeprojects.com.au ATTAR: attar.com.au Austal: austal.com Austedan Fabrications: austedan.com.au Austral: australtechnologies.com.au Australian Rail Track Corporation: artc.com.au Australian Welding Supplies: awsi.com.au Aztec Analysis: wga.com.au BAE Systems: baesystems.com Barker Hume Homes: N/A Baxter Institute: baxter.vic.edu.au Beenleigh Steel Fabrications: beenleighsteel.com.au Ben Baden Services: craneconnection.com.au Berg Engineering: bergengineering.com.au Bisalloy Steels: bisalloy.com.au BMC Welding: bmcgroup.com.au Bombardier Transportation: bombardier.com/en/transportation.html Bradken: bradken.com Brezac Constructions: brezac.com.au Broadspectrum: broadspectrum.com Brosco Enterprises: brosco.com.au Browns Precision Welding: brownswelding.com.au Brunton Engineering & Construction: brunteng.com Caltex Refineries (QLD): caltex.com.au CCR Group: ccrgroup.com.au Central Engineering: centralengineering.com.au Chess Engineering: chessindustries.com.au CQ Industries: cqind.com CQ Steel Industries: cqsteel.com.au

Australian Welding: December 2018

Crisp Bros Haywards: haywards-steel.com Cullen Steel: cullensteel.com.au D&L Engineering Services: fabinox.com.au DGH Engineering: dghengineering.com.au Diverse Welding: diversewelding.com.au DJM Fabrications: djmfab.com DT Hiload Australia: dthiload.com E&A Contractors: ottowayfabrication.com.au Excel Marine: excelmarine.net.au Extrin: extrin.com.au FIELD Engineers: fieldengineers.com.au Flexco: flexco.com.au Fortress Systems: fortressresistors.com Foxheat: foxheat.com Furphy Engineering: furphys.com.au G & G Mining Fabrication: ggminingfab.com Global Engineering & Construction: globalec.com.au Global Manufacturing Group: gmqld.com.au Hamilton Maintenance Group Hilton Manufacturing: hiltonmanufacturing.com.au HVAC Queensland: hvac.com.au Industrial Installation & Maintenance: iimaust.com.au Ingal EPS: ingaleps.com.au Jacmor Engineering: jacmor.com.au JB Specialised Engineering: jordbellows.com.au JR’s Marine Engineering: jrsgroup.com.au Kangaroo Training Institute: kangarootraininginstitute.com.au Kenro Products: kenrometal.com.au Keppel Prince Engineering: keppelprince.com Knox Engineering: knoxeng.com LaserBond: laserbond.com.au LD Engineering Services: ldo.com.au Lendlease: lendlease.com/au/ Loclur Engineering: loclur.com.au LSW Group: lswgroup.com.au Mainetec: mainetec.com.au Mechanical Maintenance Solutions: mms.auz.net Mechanical Testing Services: N/A Melco Engineering: melcoeng.com.au Midway Metals: midwaymetals.com.au Millmerran: intergen.com Monadelphous Group:

monadelphous.com.au Monash University: monash.edu Newmont Asia Pacific: newmont.com Nix Engineering Group: nixengineering.com.au Obadare: obadare.com.au Orrcon Manufacturing: orrconsteel.com.au OSD Pipelines: osdlimited.com Precision Metal Group Aust: precisionmetalgroup.com QSM Fabrication: qsmfabrication.com.au Quality Process Services: qpspl.com.au Queensland Nitrates Plant: N/A Radio Frequency Systems: rfsworld.com RCR Energy: rcrtom.com.au RJB Industries: rjb-industries.com Robert Vernon: N/A Robot Technologies-Systems Australia: robottechnologies.com.au Rockpress: rockpress.com.au Russell Mineral Equipment: rmeglobal.com S&L Steel: slsteel.com.au Samaras Group: samarasgroup.com Saunders International: saundersint.com Schenck Process Australia: schenckprocess.com SMW Group: smwgroup.com.au Smenco: smenco.com.au Snowy Hydro: snowyhydro.com.au Southern Cross Industrial Supplies: scis.com.au SSS Manufacturing: sssmanufacturing.com Steel Mains: www.steelmains.com Structural Integrity Engineering: siepl.com.au Supagas: supagas.com.au SWA Water Australia: swawater.com.au Taurus Mining Solutions: taurusminingsolutions.com Testing, Inspection & Calibration Services: ticsndt.com The Bloomfield Group: bloomcoll.com.au Topline Steel Fabrications: N/A Trade and Investment NSW: industry.nsw.gov.au Uneek Bending: uneek.com.au Vehicle Components: vehiclecomponents.com.au Victorian Testing & Inspection Services: victesting.com.au Walz Construction: walzgroup.biz Welding Guns of Australia: unimig.com.au

Inside Weld Australia: Upcoming Events

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Upcoming Events Whether you need to brush up on skills learnt years ago, want to try your hand at something new, or crave some networking opportunities, there is an industry event for you. For further information on the events listed below, or any Weld Australia events, please email events@weldaustralia.com.au or phone +61 (0)2 8748 0100.

February 2019

May 2019

July 2019

2nd International Symposium on Materials, Manufacturing Process and Devices 15 to 17 February, Auckland http://mmpd2019.org

National Manufacturing Week 14 to 17 May, Melbourne nationalmanufacturingweek.com.au

72nd IIW Annual Assembly and International Conference 7 to 12 July, Bratislava, Slovakia http://iiwelding.org

Digitalisation in Vocational Training and Further Education 20 February, Essen, Germany http://www.dvs-ev.de/ digitalisation2019 Australian International Aerospace Congress 2019 24 to 26 February, Melbourne http://www.aiac18.com March 2019 Australasian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference 13 to 15 March, Perth https://aogexpo.com.au 8th Asia Pacific IIW International Congress 20 to 22 March, Bangkok, Thailand https://iiwap2019.com April 2019 System Engineering Test and Evaluation Conference 29 April to 1 May, Canberra https://sete2019.com.au

Risk Engineering and Project Controls Conference 15 to 17 May, Sydney https://risk-pcc19.com.au 20th Jubilee International Conference on Joining Materials 26 to 29 May, Helsingor, Denmark http://iiwelding.org June 2019 ICWAM 2019 5 to 7 June, Metz, France http://www.icwam.com 13th International Conference on the Mechanical Behaviour of Materials 10 to 14 June, Melbourne https://www.icm-13.com Transport Australia Conference 26 to 28 June, Sydney https://www.transport2019.com.au APICAM 2019: 2nd Asia-Pacific International Conference on Additive Manufacturing 30 June to 3 July, Melbourne https://www.apicam2019.com.au

13th International Conference on Bulk Materials Storage, Handling and Transportation 9 to 11 July, Gold Coast https://www.newcastle.edu.au August 2019 22nd International Conference on Composites Materials 11 to 16 August, Melbourne https://iccm22.com September 2019 Coasts and Ports 2019 10 to 13 September, Hobart www.coastsandports2019.com.au October 2019 2019 APGA Convention and Exhibition 12 to 15 October, Adelaide http://www.apga.org.au November 2019 World Engineers Convention 20 to 22 November, Melbourne https://www.wec2019.org.au

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50

2019 Training Calendar Weld Australia delivers a comprehensive range of training and certification services, all of which are designed to help Australian welders and fabricators achieve and maintain a competitive advantage.

As the premier welding certification body in Australia, an International Institute of Welding (IIW) Authorised Nominated Body (ANB) and an Authorised Training Body (ATB), Weld Australia offers individual certifications, including: Welding Inspector, Welding Specialist, Welding Technologist, Welding Engineer, AS1796 Welding Supervisor Certificate 10, and AS2214 Welding Supervisor.

International Welding Inspector - Basic Location

Dates

Adelaide

18 - 22 Feb 2019 27 - 31 May 2019 11 - 15 Nov 2019

Brisbane

11 - 15 Mar 2019

Mackay

8 - 12 Apr 2019

Melbourne

13 - 17 May 2019

Perth

11 - 15 Feb 2019 10 - 14 Jun 2019

Sydney

4 - 8 Feb 2019 29 Apr - 3 May 2019

International Welding Inspector - Standard Location

Dates

Adelaide

IWI-S Part 1: 17 - 21 Jun 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 1 - 3 Jul 2019

Brisbane

IWI-S Part 1: 1 - 5 Apr 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 15 - 17 Apr 2019

Mackay

IWI-S Part 1: 24 - 28 Jun 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 1 - 3 Jul 2019

Melbourne

IWI-S Part 1: 15 - 19 Jul 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 29 - 31 Jul 2019

Perth

IWI-S Part 1: 13 - 17 May 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 27 - 29 May 2019

Sydney

IWI-S Part 1: 1 - 5 Apr 2019 IWI-S Part 2: 15 - 17 Apr 2019

“

The practical and theoretical knowledge of the trainers was excellent, the opportunity to draw on their knowledge was fantastic.�

International Welding Specialist Location

Dates

Adelaide

Week 1: 3 - 7 Jun 2019 Week 2: 8 - 12 Jul 2019 Week 3: 5 - 9 Aug 2019 Week 4: 9 - 13 Sep 2019 Week 5: 30 Sep - 4 Oct 2019

Brisbane

Week 1: 24 - 28 Jun 2019 Week 2: 22 - 26 Jul 2019 Week 3: 19 - 23 Aug 2019 Week 4: 23 - 27 Sep 2019 Week 5: 21 Sep - 25 Oct 2019

Mackay

Week 1: 3 - 7 Jun 2019 Week 2: 8 - 12 Jul 2019 Week 3: 5 - 9 Aug 2019 Week 4: 2 - 6 Sep 2019 Week 5: 30 Sep - 4 Oct 2019

Perth

Week 1: 25 Feb - 1 Mar 2019 Week 2: 25 - 29 Mar 2019 Week 3: 29 Apr - 3 May 2019 Week 4: 20 - 24 May 2019 Week 5: 17 - 21 Jun 2019

Sydney

Week 1: 8 - 12 Apr 2019 Week 2: 6 - 10 May 2019 Week 3: 3 - 7 Jun 2019 Week 4: 8 - 12 Jul 2019 Week 5: 5 - 9 Aug 2019

Inside Weld Australia: 2019 Training Calendar

51

“

This is the second IWI course I have taken and on both accounts I have been very impressed with the presenters. The level of knowledge from all the teachers is impressive.”

International Welding Engineer Location

Dates

Wollongong

Module 1: 10 - 14 Dec 2018 Practical Phase: 4 - 8 Feb 2019 Module 2: 11 - 15 Feb 2019 Module 3: 13 - 17 May 2019 Module 4: 22 - 26 July 2019

International Welding Technologist Location

Dates

Wollongong

Module 1: 10 - 14 Dec 2018 Practical Phase: 4 - 8 Feb 2019 Module 2: 11 - 15 Feb 2019 Module 3: 13 - 17 May 2019 Module 4: 22 - 26 Jul 2019

The Benefits of Training & Qualification Weld Australia training and certification is a strong addition to your career portfolio. It demonstrates to employers that you possess advanced welding knowledge, essential to ensuring the highest levels of workmanship.

Qualification demonstrates to employers that you are dedicated to continually learning and growing in your field. These are qualities that are essential for success in team leadership roles or for more complex projects.

Designed to provide an interesting and stimulating industrial perspective, all our courses are supported by a broad range of major industry groups and hundreds of Australian companies. Plus, our presenters are all International Welding Engineers or Technologists with extensive industry experience.

Online & Blended Learning In conjunction with the American Welding Society (AWS), Weld Australia offers online courses to help develop your welding knowledge and to better inform you for your professional development.

The content has been developed by senior people within the profession and is regularly updated. These courses are available any time, day and night, and are designed as self-paced modules which will allow the student to complete them in their own time.

Courses include: • Economics of Welding • Fabrication Maths (Basic and Advanced) • Metallurgy (Basic and Advanced) • Non-Destructive Testing • Welding Fundamentals (Basic and Advanced) • Welding Safety • Welding Sales Representative • Welding Symbols For more information, visit the Weld Australia website: www.weldaustralia.com.au.

In-House Training Weld Australia can present any of its courses to your employees in-house at the location of your choosing.

We can also tailor training courses specifically for your company and employees.

Further Information For further information, or to enrol in a Weld Australia training course today, please contact: training@weldaustralia.com.au or +61 2 8748 0150, or visit www.weldaustralia.com.au.

Weld Australia reserves the right to cancel or change dates of any training course due to insufficient registrations or other reasons beyond its control, and reserves the right to refuse enrolments.

Australian Welding: December 2018 52 Weld Australia’s Expert Advisory

Services And Technical Support: Independent Advice You Can Trust Weld Australia has a team of highly qualified welding engineers and materials specialists available to provide expert advisory services on all welding and materials related matters. With expertise in a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to composites, we have a unique capability to solve your joining problems. Our advice can help you substantially increase the operational life of your plant and equipment, thereby reducing your maintenance and repair overheads.

Our Areas of Expertise • • • • • • • • • • • •

Welding procedure development Welding coordination and management systems Material performance and weldability Welding processes and related equipment Welding health and safety Failure investigation Expert witness in welding and related matters On-site welding technology assistance On-site auditing of welding quality systems Welding codes and standards Inspection and testing Non-destructive testing

Resources

Manufacturing

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Mechanical testing Heat treatment in welding Welding quality management to ISO 3834 Welding specialists (IWE, IWT, IWS) for site work Pipelines-in-service welding, repairs and hot tapping Specialised welding and associated technologies (laser, ultrasonic peening and underwater welding) R&D and application of technology Engineering critical assessment fracture mechanics Structural and pressure equipment design Finite element analysis Weld cost estimating Life estimation

Infrastructure

Defence

Power Generation

Helping secure the future of Australia’s welding industry.

+61 (0)2 8748 0100 | info@weldaustralia.com.au | www.welaustralia.com.au | Building 3, Level 3, 20 Bridge Street, Pymble, NSW 2073