Australian Welding - December 2022

SECURING THE FUTURE OF AUSTRALIA’S WELDING INDUSTRY

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Advocacy: As the peak body for welding, we are dedicated to facilitating the growth of world class welding in Australia.

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IN THIS ISSUE

WELD AUSTRALIA CONTACTS

National Office PO Box 197 Macquarie Park BC NSW 1670 02 8748 0100 office@weldaustralia.com.au weladustralia.com.au

Chief Executive Officer

Geoff Crittenden 02 8748 0100 g.crittenden@weldaustralia.com.au

ENGINEERING

Victor Blain, Engineering Team Manager – South & West 0409 823 991 v.blain@weldaustralia.com.au

TRAINING

Guy Brooks, Training Manager 0488 743 322 g.brooks@weldaustralia.com.au

MARKETING

Michelle Bignold, National Manager, Sales & Marketing 0437 106 726 m.bignold@weldaustralia.com.au

MEMBERSHIP

David Choudry, Membership Manager 0417 878 104 d.choudry@weldaustralia.com.au

QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATION

Deniz Yalniz, Qualification

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 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 Weld Australia. Publication of any advertisement does not constitute endorsement by Weld Australia of any product, nor warrant its suitability.

2022: A YEAR IN REVIEW

“ Weld Australia’s advocacy agenda focused on training initiatives for the next generation of welders and fabricators, building a sustainable and productive local industry, and ensuring superior welding quality standards and public safety.”

As 2022 draws to a close, I thought it pertinent to reflect on Weld Australia’s key achievements this year. At all times, the Weld Australia team focused on providing the resources and services that members needed most. Our primary goal is to ensure that the Australian welding industry remains locally and globally competitive, both now and into the future.

Advocacy

As the urgency of Australia’s COVID-19 response fell from the headlines, the lasting effects of the pandemic on the global economy became clear. These were coupled with the ongoing war in Ukraine, a severe shortage of skilled labour, and supply chain issues. However, Weld Australia’s role remained clear: to provide high-quality advocacy services for members.

Weld Australia’s advocacy agenda focused on training initiatives for the next generation of welders and fabricators, building a sustainable and productive local industry, and ensuring superior welding quality standards and public safety. We generated significant media coverage and political interest.

Events

As we acclimatised to the ‘new normal’ in a post-COVID world, our calendar of in-person events returned across the country. We facilitated 17 member events, which were attended by over 730 people. We attended a wide range of industry exhibitions, expos and careers events, representing the welding industry to the broader industrial sector.

We also hosted the very successful and much expanded 2022 program of Welding Excellence Awards. For further details about the winners, please see the article on page 8.

Training and Skills

Our training department went from strength to strength, with over 300 students completing courses this year. Weld Australia trained and qualified 24 new International Welding Engineers (IWE), 100 Welding Supervisors, and 20 International Welding Specialists (IWS).

We facilitated our first Welding Fundamentals courses early in the year. This new course gives technical personnel working in the metal and manufacturing industry an overview of welding processes, defects, testing and qualification as required by Australian and International Standards. The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive.

Our work on the MEM2.0 project with the National TAFE Consortium continued, with pilot programs run in Western Australia. We expanded our Advanced Manufacturing School

David Lake (Chair, Weld Australia).

Outreach Program in New South Wales significantly, with over 80 welding simulators installed in more than 40 schools.

Our VET Centre of Excellence program with Corrections Victoria at HM Prison Langi Kal Kal commenced and is already returning great results. In 2022, Corrections Victoria expanded the VET Centre of Excellence model to deliver Fusion Welding to ISO 9606 certification standard to complement their Metal Fabrication industry at HM Prison Langi Kal Kal. Federation University delivers the training program with the support of Weld Australia and on-site prison industry staff. As part of the program, augmented reality training was introduced to expand the welding skills of the inmate learners to meet international standards.

Qualification and Certification

Our qualification and certification services remained as popular as ever in 2022, with 30 companies certified to AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials; EN 15085 Railway applications – Welding of railway vehicles; or DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes –Quality requirements to be met by production and maintenance companies for military products. This is 76% increase on last year.

In addition, 77 welders were qualified according to ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders — Fusion welding. The Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR) and WeldQ platform also continued to grow. Over 670 users registered on WeldQ this year, taking the total number of users up to 11,570.

Season’s Greetings

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Weld Australia’s Directors for not only volunteering their time throughout 2021, but for their true commitment and hard work. On behalf of the entire Board, I would also like to thank Geoff Crittenden, our CEO, and his team for all their dedication and work throughout the year.

Lastly, I would like to thank all of our members for their ongoing support, particularly all those members who regularly contribute to our success, such as the hard-working members of our local committees. It’s the ongoing support from members like you that allows us to continue advocating for the welding industry in Australia, and we wholeheartedly thank you for your role in that this year. We hope you will continue your support in 2023.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

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2023: OPPORTUNITIES ON THE HORIZON

As 2022 draws to a close, it is the perfect time to plan for the year ahead. As always, Weld Australia’s activities in 2023 will be guided by our vision and mission; our primary goal is to ensure that the Australian welding industry remains locally and globally competitive, both now and into the future.

In 2023, Weld Australia will focus on several areas, including expanding its certification services, introducing a Welding Supervisor and Welding Inspector licensing scheme, and upskilling disadvantaged members of the community. We will also continue to implement our robust advocacy program, and deliver superior quality training, services and events to our members.

Advocacy

As the peak body for welding in Australia, Weld Australia facilitates the growth of world class welding in Australia. In all our advocacy activities, our team promotes and campaigns for enhanced practices and greater opportunities for welders.

In 2023, we will continue to work with all levels of government to revitalise the Australian manufacturing industry. We need a commitment from State and Federal Governments to increase levels of local content in all procurement decisions. We need the big corporates to award local contracts to local companies.

The strength of the sovereign capability of Australia depends on Australians investing in Australia. It might be cheaper in the short-term to buy from Thailand, China, or South Korea, but all this does is weaken our economy. We need to invest in our economy. We need to bring home the manufacture of goods such as rail infrastructure and solar power equipment. To secure the future of Australian manufacturing and welding, we need determined action from our governments, industry leaders, and the general public to put Australia first. We need Australians to buy Australian.

Certification

Over the next 12 months, Weld Australia plans to expand its certification services. We are looking at introducing certification services for AS/NZS ISO 9001 Quality management, AS/NZS ISO 14001 Environmental management, and AS/NZS ISO 45001 Occupational health and safety management.

We will look to strengthen and grow our partnerships with TÜV and IAS: IIS, expanding into additional areas of certification. We currently partner with TÜV to deliver DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes - Quality requirements to be met by production and maintenance companies for military products certification; and with IAS: IIS to deliver EN 15085 Railway applications — Welding of railway vehicles and components certification.

Weld Australia will embark on Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ) accreditation for our AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials scheme. JAS-ANZ accreditation confirms that you have been approved by an independent third party as a professional conformity assessment body that acts with integrity when certifying or inspecting for conformity assessment.

Licensing Scheme

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 2023, Weld Australia will commence work on establishing a licensing scheme for Welding Supervisors and Welding Inspectors.

There is currently no mandated licensing system for welders, Welding Supervisors or Welding Inspectors in Australia. And yet, to carry out electrical or plumbing work in Australia, tradesmen must be licensed. Similarly, in Europe and North America, not only is compliance with International Standards mandatory, it is also compulsory that all welding is carried out by a qualified and certified welder.

Upskilling Disadvantaged Members of the Community

Australia is facing a lack of skilled welders. Unless urgent action is taken now, Australia will be 70,000 welders short by 2030. Australia does not have the welders to deliver the nation’s critical energy, defence, rail and infrastructure projects. Weld Australia’s members report that they are so strapped for skilled welders that they are working at anywhere

Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia)

between 30% and 50% of their full capacity, and turning projects away.

Given this situation, innovative programs that create long-term solutions to the skills shortage are essential. In 2023, Weld Australia will continue to implement such programs, including an Indigenous welding school in Western Australia.

We will look to expand on the VET Centre of Excellence model implemented by Corrections Victoria, which is proving to be highly successful in teaching prisoners practical skills. In 2022, Corrections Victoria expanded the VET Centre of Excellence model to deliver Fusion Welding to ISO 9606 certification standard to complement their Metal Fabrication industry at Langi Kal Kal Prison. Not only does the program upskill new welders, research demonstrates that prisoners who successfully completed VET programs in prison are:

• 60% more likely to remain custody free at two years post-release

• 78% more likely to remain custody free at five years post-release

Education and Training

Working in collaboration with the National TAFE Consortium, Weld Australia has made great progress this year with the development of nationally consistent online

learning resources for the Metals and Engineering (MEM 2.0) training package. In a very important step for the entire industry, these learning resources will be launched in 2023.

In Western Australia, South Metropolitan TAFE has already adopted the use of these resources, and there are plans to do so on a state-wide basis. We are hopeful that all the other TAFEs that have participated in their development will do likewise. This represents a huge overhaul of welder training in Australia. It will help ensure consistent welder training, regardless of where in the country students undertake that training. The new resources are completely online and accessible via phone, mobile device or computer. This will allow students to access learning at the time, place and pace that suits them best.

Innovative Technology

The use of cutting-edge technology to bolster productivity and help alleviate some of the welder skills shortages will also be on our agenda in 2023. We will continue to work closely with the Australian Cobotics Centre to help SMEs adopt the use of cobotics, and look to introduce this technology into high schools across the nation—as we have done so successfully with the Soldamatic augmented reality simulators through the NSW Department of Education’s Advanced Manufacturing School

Season’s Greetings & Happy Holidays from Weld Australia

On behalf of everyone at Weld Australia, we would like to thank our members and clients for their continued support throughout 2022, and to extend our warmest wishes for the holiday season.

Our National Office will be closed over Christmas and the New Year, from Friday 23 December 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023.

Outreach Program. In addition, we will continue to advocate for the expansion of this Program into other states.

Member Events

Following on from a successful return to in-person events this year, Weld Australia will strengthen its calendar of events in 2023.

In exciting news, we are working with The Australia Institute - Centre for Future Work on a major conference. To be held at Parliament House in Canberra, the theme of the conference will be Renewable Energy Manufacturing.

Thank You and Warm Wishes

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those members who have contributed to Weld Australia this year. In particular, my thanks go to the hard-working members of all our local committees.

I would also like to thank the Weld Australia Directors who commit a significant proportion of their free time to Board matters. I thank them for their advice throughout 2021. Finally, I would like to thank the entire Weld Australia team for their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication.

I wish everyone a safe and happy festive season and a prosperous new year.

Craftsmanship, quality and professionalism were front over the last month, with the winners of the 2022 Welding Excellence Awards announced across the national.

Weld Australia’s Excellence Awards are the most prestigious event on the welding industry calendar. The Awards showcase and celebrate the world-class work being undertaken by local welders, fabricators and industry educators.

According to Weld Australia’s CEO, Geoff Crittenden, “Weld Australia’s 2022 Welding Excellence Awards celebrate the incredible work of Australia’s welders and fabricators. The Awards recognise and reward professionals whose dedication, skill, and teamwork speak for themselves.”

“This year’s winners feature businesses and people committed to the pursuit of innovative, sustainable solutions that minimise risk and maximise project outcomes, as well as initiatives designed to increase the breadth and depth of skilled labour within the welding sector,” Crittenden said.

Weld Australia would like to thank all our sponsors, without which the Awards would not have been possible: BOC, Coregas, Diverseco, the Outsource Institute and ProQM.

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

The ACT and NSW Awards Ceremony.

The Queensland and NT Awards Ceremony.

The Victoria and Tasmania Awards Ceremony.

ACT & NEW SOUTH WALES

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION MC Quality Control

Established in 2015, MC Quality is committed to supporting the welding industry long-term. With workshops in both Singleton in the Upper Hunter and Mackay in Queensland, MC Quality Control has a team of over 25 professionals. Over the last four years, MC Quality Control has expanded and invested significantly in formal training for its team, in Welding Inspection (IWI-B), Welding Supervision (AS 2214), Welding Coordination (IWT) and Project Management. This has consistently delivered improvements in quality for its customers, and opportunities for the business to expand into a diverse range of sectors including manufacturing, renewable energy, rail and mining.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – GAS AND GEAR BOC Gas and Gear, Lismore

In early 2022, Queensland and Northern NSW were affected by devastating floods. With the floodwaters rising to above roof level, BOC Lismore experienced significant damage to their store and stock. Despite this, the BOC Lismore team was integral in getting medical cylinders transported from Brisbane to Lismore Base Hospital. They also worked tirelessly with the SES to get high quality medical oxygen to isolated nursing homes in areas cut off by the floods. Throughout the rebuild, BOC Gas and Gear at Lismore has continued to supply and support local fabrication shops with welding gas and equipment whilst continuing to service the greater Northern Rivers region.

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Allianz Stadium Roof - S&L Steel

Located in in the heart of Sydney’s thriving sport, entertainment and hospitality precinct, the new world class Allianz Stadium was designed to create an unrivalled experience for spectators, athletes, and entertainers. Based in Western Sydney, S&L Steel fabricated the roof of the stadium, which consisted of: a tension ring located on the outside perimeter of the roof; four derricks that support the roof in the four corners; and ten truss sections that are complemented with the diagrid a combination of RHS and CHS members. S&L’s scope of work also included primary and secondary steel members for following trades, such as fabric and lighting.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION – ORGANISATION AWARD

New South Wales (NSW) Department of Education

The NSW Department of Education delivers vocational education to students enrolled in government secondary schools across the state. The Department constantly seeks opportunities that will give students access to equipment and facilities that enhance their learning In 2019, the Department introduced the WELD Hub Manufacturing program. Designed to boost interest in manufacturing and engineering subjects, the program gives students access to augmented reality welding simulators. Over 80 simulators have been installed in 40 schools. The program is delivering exceptional results, made possible by staff who have worked hard to ensure the program supports both students and teachers.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION – INDIVIDUAL TEACHER AWARD

Alan Bailey, Central Coast Community College

With a welding career spanning over 40 years, Alan Bailey has been a Senior Trade Trainer at the Central Coast Community College for the last three years. Prior to this, he was a TAFE Teacher for 15 years, including the Metal Fabrication and Welding Head Teacher. After completing his apprenticeship, Alan worked as a boilermaker, a workshop and site manager and an estimator. But his real passion is educating aspiring tradespeople, where he can share his knowledge of the industry. He leads with his heart and has worked tirelessly with industry to improve course delivery and equip apprentices with practical workplace skills. Importantly, Alan makes his lessons fun. His students all agree that they’ve never had a better learning experience.

YOUNG TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR

Arnekin Loftus, Formula Offroad

Arnekin has shown outstanding dedication and commitment to his Certificate III in Engineering at TAFE NSW, as well as his work at Formula Offroad. He takes pride in all his work and uses initiative to problem solve. As a result, Arnekin helps to revise and improve manufacturing processes for easy fitment and economical production. He is involved with research and development, prototypes, and trial fits and has a thorough knowledge of the quality control procedures. Along with his high level fabrication skills, Arnekin is the chief operator for the CNC mandrel bender for both custom pipe work and Formula Offroad’s standard line of products. He recently won the Gold Medal for the Welding Category at the WorldSkills Regional Competition for Sydney West.

WELDING COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

Michael Cameron, MC Quality Control

Michael has helped MC Quality grow while maintaining the company’s vision, values and behaviours. A natural leader, he is professional, knowledgeable and respected by his peers. With over 25 years’ experience, Michael has now embarked on the formal welding inspection side of the trade, working for MC Quality over the last seven years. Michael has been responsible for conducting welding coordination on mine sites and for subcontractor repair and manufacturing facilities. Michael has increasingly provided value to MC Quality’s customers, grown the company’s workload, and increased revenue over the last 12 months. All customer feedback has been supportive, positive, and appreciative of Michael’s professionalism and flexibility.

WELDING SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

Sungmook (AKA Mac) Park, TSS Engineering

Mac has played a key role in helping TSS Engineering evolve from a small fabrication workshop into a multi-million contractor that provides services for major projects like WestConnex. Mac has been with TSS Engineering for over three years. During this time, he has taken on the role of Welding Supervisor and Welding Coordinator, performing all aspects of fabrication management including welding procedure development and production plans in line with AS/NZS ISO 3834 guidelines. Mac also provides effective mentoring to more junior welders. An IWI-B, Mac holds AS 2214, AS1796 - Certificate 10, a Cert IV in Engineering Drafting and Cert III in Engineering (Fabrication).

WELDING INSPECTOR OF THE YEAR

Mark Lamb-Crane, MC Quality Control

Mark boasts over 10 years of experience in boilermaking. After securing his International Welding Inspector - Basic (IWI-B) qualification, Mark took on the role of Welding Inspector. Over the last 12 months, he has delivered quality assurance and control services for MC Quality Control. As a Team Leader, responsible for two Glencore mine sites for MC Quality Control, Mark conducts welding examinations onsite at mine and sub-contractor repair and manufacturing facilities. In 2022, Mark conducted over 150 inspections and completed 117 welding inspection reports with all customer feedback being supportive, positive, and appreciative of Mark’s professionalism and flexibility. Every report submitted has been detailed and accurate.

CEO’S AWARD FOR THE WELDING PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Jason Elias, Precision Metal Group

Jason is a true champion of the Australian welding industry. He is dedicated to promoting local contractors, and the importance of Australian and international standards. Jason established Precision Metal Group in 2000 in Yennora, Western Sydney after his highly successful boilermaker apprenticeship—he was named Apprentice of the Year three years in a row. After eight successful years as a sole trader, Elias formed a company and moving into bigger premises at Wetherill Park. Ten years on, PMG boasts up a team of over 40 employees, delivers innovative, quality work and is involved with some of Australia’s biggest companies and projects. Jason recently volunteered for the role of Chair of Weld Australia’s defence industry network.

NSW Department of Education team, along with Guy Brooks (far left) and Michael Pitt (far right) from Weld Australia.

The team from DBC Group Australia.

The team from Glencore Coal Assets and Alan Bailey (far right).

The team from BOC.

QUEENSLAND & NT

QUEENSLAND COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION JRS Manufacturing Group

Established in 2011, JRS Manufacturing Group specialises in fabrication consultation and construction of plate, pipe and structural steel products. They are committed to innovation and firmly believe in investing in the technology behind their practices, as well as their people. As a growing organisation, their business is built on long term strategic partnerships which have seen them working in a variety of sectors, including mining, civil, oil and gas, defence, construction, and aerospace. JRS recently established their own Skills Academy. An Australian-first hybrid learning framework, the Academy is helping strengthen the local advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

NORTHERN TERRITORY COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION A&B Welding

Established in Darwin in 1986, A & B Welding was the first company in Australia to obtain certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834.2. Specialists in all alloy and carbon steel piping, fabrication and welding, their experience and technical knowledge of even the most complex fabrication and welding applications is extremely impressive. Their team specialises in the welding of exotic materials, with applications such as all piping, structural steel, pressure vessels, crossovers, metering skids, access platforms, and more. A keen focus on delivering high quality products and outcomes has been key to A & B Welding’s success over the last 35 years.

INDIGENOUS COMPANY OF THE YEAR Bridgeman

Bridgeman is a proudly Indigenous owned, operated and Supply Nation certified metal manufacturing and construction company. They are committed to providing leadership, support, opportunity, and encouragement to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community. Originally founded in 1997 as a metal manufacturing company, Bridgeman has transitioned into one of Australia’s most trusted and respected multi-faceted solutions providers. With a presence in Brisbane, Townsville and Cairns, Bridgeman boasts an advanced manufacturing facility of over 2,700m2, which is equipped with the latest machinery.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – GAS AND GEAR Coregas

Operating since 1974, Coregas is the only Australian industrial gases company. Coregas manufactures gases locally and distributes them throughout Australia and New Zealand via a network of branches and third parties. As a key partner to the welding industry, Coregas is always seeking to raise the bar in terms of service, quality and value. They actively support the learning and development of their own people to better assist their clients and the sectors in which they operate. This includes offering apprenticeships, internships, on the job training and other educational and developmental programs. Coregas delivers highly solutions that reduce the financial and resource burden on Australian industry.

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Greenfield Construction Project for a large CSG Company by Ventia

This project for a large CSG company required Ventia to engage and manage multiple contractors for all aspects of the construction including earthworks, piling, civil, electrical and instrumentation. In order to increase efficiency in the field, the team identified early on how best to split the welding between workshop welds and site-based welds. Ventia performed all pipe installation, field welding and bolt ups. This required welding large diameter piping sourced from overseas in both carbon steel and stainless steel. Ventia’s Quality Control Inspector worked closely with suppliers to ensure only high-quality components were used and met the correct specifications.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION – ORGANISATION AWARD

The Outsource Institute

Founded in 1998, the Outsource Institute has provided quality vocational engineering qualifications and advanced specialised technical skills for over 20 years. They take an innovative approach that features industry collaborations, accreditations and pathways that improve access to education and address the ongoing skills shortages across a variety of industries. With a number of qualified and highly valued welding trainers and engineers on hand, the Outsource Institute are also committed to initiatives that actively increase female engagement with Science, Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing (STEM) and trade-based vocational education.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION – INDIVIDUAL TEACHER AWARD

Tasvir Singh, TAFE Queensland - East Coast

Tasvir completed his tertiary teacher Diploma at Fiji National University before converting his qualification to the Australian standard and taking a teaching role in 2016. Tasvir currently teaches Certificate I to Certificate III in Engineering at TAFE Queensland’s Maryborough Trade Training Centre. Also committed to his own professional development, Tasvir has undertaken a range of welding qualifications, up to and including an International Welding Inspector (IWI) qualification. He works closely with industry to deliver training that is relevant and in-line with industry standards, and is always on the lookout for new training opportunities to benefit his students.

YOUNG TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR

Kohan Hanby, Hanby Welding and Engineering

At 18 years of age, Kohan already displays great attention to detail, quality and a high level of craftmanship. His apprenticeship has seen him attain a number of qualifications in quick succession including the completion of AS/NZS ISO 9606 qualification in the second year of his apprenticeship, making him the youngest recipient in the southern hemisphere. Kohan takes extreme pride in his work and is passionate, methodical and determined. He was named Engineering Apprentice of the Year at the TAFE Queensland 2022 Cairns Trade Excellence Awards and claimed the event’s top accolade, the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year Award. Kohan also competed in this year’s WorldSkills Competition.

YOUNG INDIGENOUS TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR

Hayden Fox, Bridgeman

Hayden completed his apprenticeship with Bridgeman and is now a qualified tradesperson. He has actively sought more responsibility in his role and is now an experienced site installer—a role that is only given to the most trusted and highly skilled Bridgeman employees. Hayden has been working on the Queensland Correctional Services Bunk Bed rollout project for the past year during which he has demonstrated a superb work ethic, outstanding productivity and is recognised as one of Bridgeman’s best welders. In the very early stages of his promising career, Hayden already displays dedication to the welding profession. He is often paired with new employees as a role-model for both workmanship and committment.

QUEENSLAND WELDING COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

Rod Clarke, Berg Engineering

When it comes to welding highly alloyed and exotic materials, Rod is at the forefront of his profession. With a career spanning over a decade, Rod is Berg Engineering’s Welding Coordinator. A big believer in lifelong learning, he holds various welding qualifications including an International Welding Supervisor (IWS), International Welding Inspector (IWI) and International Welding Technician (IWT). He plans on continuing his studies to complete a Diploma of Engineering. Passionate and dedicated, Rod embodies Berg Engineering’s core values of excellence, persistence, humility, accountability, and respect. He is also a member of the Weld Australia Queensland committee, voluntaring his time to help strengthen the welding industry throughout the state.

NORTHERN TERRITORY WELDING COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

Grant Ryan, A & B Welding

Being part of the industry his entire working life, Grant lives and breathes welding and fabrication. As the owner of A & B Welding, he is committed to the highest welding quality standards and dedicates considerable time to training school-based work experience students and apprentices. This passion to play a hands-on role in training the next generation of welders (on top of performing his role as a Managing Director) is what sets Grant apart from so many business owners. Grant has volunteered as the Chair of Weld Australia’s Northern Territory committee for some years, further cementing his personal reputation as a true industry leader.

QUEENSLAND WELDING SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR Nicholas Marsden, MC Quality Control

Over the last 12 months, Nicholas has provided welding supervision and quality control services for MC Quality after achieving his IWI-B qualification. With over ten years’ experience, Nicholas’ background includes a trade in boilermaking. Nicholas has been responsible for conducting welding examinations at mine sites and subcontractor repair and manufacturing facilities. Over the last 12 months, he has conducted over 150 welding supervision interactions and completed 100 welding supervision reports. Nicholas has increasingly provided value to MC Quality’s customers, has grown the company’s workload, and increased its revenue. All customer feedback has been supportive, positive, and appreciative of Nicholas’s professionalism and flexibility.

WELDING WELDING INSPECTOR OF THE YEAR

Rachel Abbot, Downer

A qualified boilermaker and International Welding Inspector (IWI), Rachel has worked on major projects across the marine, industrial, power and energy sectors. She’s worked her way up from an apprentice and has held key business development and technical roles. Rachel is currently a Quality Coordinator with Downer working on a turbine rebuild at the Callide Power Station. On site, she is making a significant contribution to the safety, quality, and success of the project. With a passion for quality control, welding supervision and procedural development, Rachel is committed to her professional development. Her capability extends from all types of heavy fabrication and overhauls, through to inspections and technical sales.

CEO’S AWARD FOR AN OUTSTANDING WELDING ENGINEER

Abhishek Trivedi, Rheinmetall Defence Australia

Abhishek has over 10 years engineering experience in welding, metallurgy, materials and quality assurance, across the defence, nuclear, oil and gas, medical device and construction industries. He has worked across projects for a range of global companies, including the Fortune 500. For the last three years, Abhishek has taken on a role at Rheinmetall Defence Australia. During this time, Abhishek has been instrumental in the establishement of a greenfield specialist military products welding facility at MILVEHCOE in Redbank. The project involved achieving all the required company certifications including AS/NZS ISO 3834-2, followed by DIN 2303. Prior to his work at Rheinmetall Defence, Abhishek was a valued member of the Weld Australia team.

L to R: Doug Hawkes, Geoff Crittenden and Warren Raisin.

Glencore Assets accepts their award.

Adam Sarota accepts Bridgeman’s award. Jasmine Riddle accepts JRS Group’s award. Abhishek Trivedi accepts his award.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION (SMALL)

Bowhill Engineering

Bowhill Engineering is a high performing, innovative second generation family business based on the River Murray in regional South Australia. Established over 40 years ago, Bowhill has a workforce of 60 people and an enviable track record for project delivery. Delivering over $12 million worth of landmark projects annually, Bowhill specialises in the fabrication of heavy and complex steel structures. Their expertise extends to bridge girders, mining headframes, steel hulled ferries and defence assemblies. Bowhill is adept at larger technical bespoke components that require the highest levels of compliance, in line with their AS/NZS ISO 3834.2 certification.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION (LARGE)

Mine Tech

Mine Tech Engineering is an innovative engineering, fabrication and construction company. With experience in the mining, energy and industrial sectors, Mine Tech provides structural, mechanical, piping fabrication and construction services. Their fabrication teams bring technical know-how and vast experience in carbon steels, stainless steels, alloys and plastics. From modest beginnings, Mine Tech was established in 2014, with a small workshop in the remote mining township of Roxby Downs. Today, Mine Tech supports a team of over 300 people in Adelaide and Whyalla, with specialist teams mobilising to sites in remote South Australia and interstate.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR - GAS AND GEAR

K-TIG

K-TIG is an Australian owned manufacturer of a patented, high quality, high productivity and repeatable welding technology known as Keyhole TIG. Over a ten year period K-TIG has evolved from a set of advanced physics developed by the CSIRO to become one of the world’s most advanced welding technologies. They have seen outstanding growth over the past three years, expanding into more than 20 countries globally. K-TIG is an advanced GTAW technology that reduces multi-hour welds to just minutes whilst retaining the high quality of conventional TIG processes. In addition to speed advantages the K-TIG technology significantly reduces power, gas consumption and labour costs.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION – ORGANISATION AWARD TAFE SA

TAFE SA enables students, industries and communities to develop, grow and thrive through high quality education and training delivery. The development of new training facilities at their Regency Campus in 2013 included a state of the art Advanced Welder Training Centre. This Centre features augmented reality welding simulators that help TAFE SA deliver training that meets high standards of quality, accessibility and flexibility. TAFE SA has enjoyed a strong partnership with the welding industry over many years. TAFE SA also conducts welder training at nine other metropolitan and regional campuses including Elizabeth, Mount Gambier, Berri, Port Augusta, and Murray Bridge.

WELDING COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

Rebecca Cameron, Mine Tech

With over 15 years experience, Rebecca kick-started her career as an apprentice, undertaking a Certificate III in Engineering. Since then, she has gained in-depth experience across just about all aspects of welding, from welding supervision and inspection, through to sales and lecturing at TAFE. As the lead of Mine Tech’s Quality Assurance department, she has implemented a range of new systems to take the company into the future. She has developed a reputation amongst her peers and colleagues as a strong, knowledgeable professional who can be relied upon on to train and educate others.

WELDING INSPECTOR OF THE YEAR

John Watson, BAE Systems

With a career spanning over 40 years, John has gained shop floor experience both in Australia and the United Kingdom. Widely regarded as someone who is committed to his profession, John has been continually developing his skills over the past 11 years and holds an International Welding Inspector - Basic (IWI-B) qualification, as well as a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. He plays a key role in training and supervising junior team members, helping them improve their skills. John currently undertakes volunteer work with apprentices at TAFE SA, assisting with assessment, guidance and mentoring.

KEN TREVENA AWARD

David Price, ASC

David has been employed at ASC for over 30 years. He commenced as a Hull and Pipe Welder, was promoted to Welding Supervisor, and then to Fabrication Manager, before taking on his current role as Training Superintendent –Fabrication and Piping. David played a key role in obtaining ASC’s accreditation AS/NZS ISO 3834, and developing welding processes and quality systems for the Collins Class Submarines. David holds International Welding Specialist (IWS), International Welding Inspector (IWI), AS1796 Cert 10, and AS 2214 qualifications, as well as a Diploma of Business Management. David has volunteered as Chair of Weld Australia’s South Australia Committee since 2018.

The South Australia Awards for Excellence Event.

L to R: David Price and Geoff Crittenden.

VICTORIA & TASMANIA

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION Hofmann Engineering

Since 1969 Hofmann Engineering has provided specialist engineering services to Australia’s industry leaders. Their quality assurance accreditation to AS/NZS ISO 3834 and EN 15085 (among others) complements their total quality culture. Hofmann Engineering has approximately 600 employees across the globe, based in nine manufacturing sites. Their successes in safety, quality, innovation and sustainability are well-documented. For instance, their facility in Melbourne is 1,300+ days Loss Time Injury (LTI) free. In recent years, Hofmann Engineering has invested heavily in meaningful Industry 4.0 tehcnology, working on three R&D projects with La Trobe University.

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

New PAO Tube - EODAS System on F-35 Joint Strike Fighter By UNEEK

The Electro-Optical Distributed Aperture System (EODAS) provides a 360-degree sensor suite for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. This sensor gives F-35 pilots unprecedented situational awareness to operate and navigate safely in any environment. The Poly Alpha Olefin (PAO) tube that UNEEK manufactures is a critical component of the EODAS system. It maintains the optimum temperature for the electronics and optics inside the assembly. The project involved satisfication of the exacting requirements of the defence industry, in areas such as material sourcing, tube bending, fit up and assembly, welding, forming, surface treatment, and pressure testing.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR - GAS AND GEAR

BOC

Gas & Gear - Albury-Wodonga

BOC’s Gas & Gear site at Albury-Wodonga is more than just a retail center. One of BOC’s busiest sites, it manages all aspects of scheduling and distribution of gases across a wide regional area, with approximately seven semi-trailer movements and tankers daily. It services 59 hospitality customers in the Wodonga, Shepparton, Wagga Wagga and Bendigo areas, and boasts a nitrogen tank that dispenses 12,000 liters per month to a wide range of customers. The site holds approximately 2,500 cylinders including 70 manifold packs, is a storage facility for a range of specialised gases, and services 520 LPG (Elgas) cylinders per month.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD – SMALL ORGANISATION Ringwood Training

Ringwood Training provides a unique government school RTO training model with a continuing and sustained history of success and innovation. The organisation was established in the late 1990s to help students who were slipping through the cracks of mainstream education. Ringwood Training offers uniquely tailored programs in three industry areas: automotive, engineering fabrication, and Information Communication Technology (ICT). The organisation delivers quality blended learning that combines practical workshop and IT laboratory based applied learning, with online studentfriendly resources.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD – VICTORIAN ORGANISATION

Chisholm Institute

As one of Victoria’s premier public vocational education and training providers, Chisholm Institute has worked diligently with the manufacturing industry over many years. In the last 12 months, their relationship with SEMMA, AMTIL and Ai Group has further reinforced Chisholm’s support for the industry. Chisholm has delivered ‘short and sharp’ training programs to up-skill participants and help fill skills gaps. Chisholm works with these partners to source candidates through various avenues such as Disability Employment Service (DES) providers, community groups, local councils, state and commonwealth government departments, Jobs Victoria Employment Network, and recruitment agencies.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD – TASMANIAN ORGANISATION

Incat Tasmania

Training is an integral element of Incat’s success. Incat has a small, highly effective training team whose core focus is the provision of internal nonaccredited training. In the 2022 financial year, approximately 75% of Incat employees attended training. Their training team delivered over 9,000 hours of off-the-job skill and knowledge development to their production staff and their apprentices attended almost 10,500 hours of the job training. In addition, Incat works with local schools and teachers to raise awareness of career opportunities in the manufacturing and engineering industries. Incat is clearly commitment to training the next generation of skilled workers.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD - VICTORIAN TEACHER

Anthony Monagl, Federation TAFE

Anthony’s career spans over 40 years. After completing his apprenticeship as a boilermaker, he enlisted in the Australian Army as a metalsmith. He served in the Army for 20 years in several roles, including welding supervisor, trainer, and finally as Senior Technical Advisor - Metalsmith. Since joining Federation TAFE in 2013, Anthony has designed and introduced a number of projects that enhance the learning experience for apprentices. These projects focus on the real-world skills needed by industry like the use of CNC across fabrication tasks. Anthony has delivered quality training outcomes that have been highlighted by senior personnel and in feedback from apprentices.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD - TASMANIAN TEACHER Simon King, Incat Tasmania

Simon has over 25 years experience in aluminium and steel welding and is currently undertaking an International Welding Inspector (IWI) qualification to further his knowledge and skills. Since taking on the role of welding trainer at Incat in early 2022, 97% of Incat’s DNV certification candidates have successfully completed their certification on their first attempt. This is a testament to Simon’s skill and ability as a specialist trainer. Simon is developing Incat’s Welder Non-Trades Program. The Program will help Incat personnel with low levels of literacy and numeracy develop the knowledge and skill required to successfully complete DNV Certification.

WELDING COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

Mathew Billman, UNEEK Bending

With a career spanning 20 years, Mathew holds multiple qualifications in welding, welding supervision and welding inspection. Most recently, successfully obtained an International Welding Technologist (IWT) qualification. Mathew has gained experience working on major project across Australia in the oil and gas, power generation, rail, boat building, mining and defence sectors. Mathew developed and implemented a number of management systems at UNEEK Bending which led to the company becoming certified to AS 9100, AS/NZS ISO 3834, DIN 2303 and EN 15085. He has also been a trainer and mentor at Chisholm Institute of TAFE for the last 13 years, and volunteers on Weld Australia’s Victorian Committee.

WELDING SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR

Basyl Jakimow, Welding Management Services

Basyl’s career in welding spans an impressive 40 plus years. So, it comes as no surprise that he has extensive experience in working with materials of all types, and in a range of sectors throughout Australia and internationally. He has worked on major projects for the mining, water, civil, infrastructure and rail sectors. Basyl has expertise in welding supervision and inspection, development of welding procedure specifications in line with Australian and international standards, and the delivery of in-depth, highly accurate technical welding guidance. He also holds an impressive array of qualifications. Basyl is a NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP) 2 Inspector, a Certified Senior Welding Inspector and an International Welding Specialist (IWS).

VICTORIAN WELDING INSPECTOR OF THE YEAR

Paul Gedye, Total Piping and Mechanical

Paul’s experience is extensive and has seen him involved in many different applications over the last 30 years, including pipe welding, tube sheet welding and enclosed orbital welding. With experience in sectors like pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, Paul holds several welding qualifications—most of which he gained at night school while working full time. Paul is currently working on the largest pharmaceutical project in Australia’s history. He is responsible for the quality outcomes of approximately 25 welders, utilising seven orbital welding plants across three sites in Melbourne, producing approximately 20,000 welds a year. Paul’s dedication to welding, high level of skill, passion and commitment make him a worthy winner.

TASMANIAN WELDING INSPECTOR OF THE YEAR

Kiah McCreadie, Tasmanian Minerals Manufacturing and Energy Council

With over 15 years experience, Kiah commenced his career in welding an apprenticeship in 2004. Since that time, he has built up an impressive body of qualifications and skills. He currently holds both an International Welding Specialist (IWS) and an International Welding Inspector - Basic (IWI-B) qualification. Kiah has worked across a broad range of projects, gaining valuable experience as a supervisor, team leader and fabricator in the health, food, manufacturing and mining industries. He is now pursuing his passion for teaching and mentoring at the Advanced Welding Centre Supervisor at the Tasmanian Minerals, Manufacturing and Energy Council (TMEC). Kiah travels around Tasmania, visiting schools and TAFEs to encourage a career in welding.

CEO’S AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO WELDER TRAINING

Robert Vernon, TAFE Gippsland

Robert has trained Australia’s welders for over 40 years. While now ‘retired’, he continues to deliver training courses in welding supervision and metallurgy. Robert’s dedication to the welding industry and welder training has seen him develop a reputation as being one of the industries most respected, soughtafter experts. Rob plays an integral role in the success of TAFE Gippsland’s Engineering courses, and was instrumental in the TAFE gaining a Certificate IV in Engineering in a Pathway Program into University. Rob contextualises training and tailors his delivery to suit all learning styles. He has an uncanny ability to engage the ‘quiet student’ to ensure they participate. Rob has been a long-term supporter of Weld Australia, serving on our local committee for many years.

Geoff Crittenden and Michelle Bignold with the ProQM team.

L to R: David Lake (Chair, Weld Australia) and Robert Vernon.

L to R: David Lake and David Hubbert (Hofmann Engineering).

L to R: David Lake and the Uneek Bending team.

L to R: David Lake and Rob Waterhouse (Thornton Engineering).

L to R: David Lake and Sowatt Hyunh.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

COMPANY OF THE YEAR – FABRICATION

Monadelphous

Headquartered in Perth, Monadelphous provides construction, maintenance and industrial services to the resources, energy and infrastructure sectors. Monadelphous makes a significant contribution to enhancing the welding and fabrication industry through research projects and training programs. Monadelphous’ apprenticeship program gives their people the opportunity to upskill and gain a TAFE qualification, while they work on-site and learn specific welding skills at their purpose-built Test and Training Facility in Perth. Monadelphous continually seeks opportunities to improve productivity and deliver value to customers through business-aligned innovation and technology.

COMPANY OF THE YEAR - GAS AND GEAR

Coregas

Operating since 1974, Coregas is the only Australian industrial gases company. They manufacture gases locally and distribute them throughout Australia and New Zealand via a network of branches and third parties. They supply to a range of industries including welding, and are always seeking to raise the bar in terms of service, quality and value. Coregas is committed to supporting the learning and development of their own people to better assist their customers. This includes offering apprenticeships, internships, on the job training and other educational and developmental programs. Coregas has long supported the local communities in which it operates and is committed to safety.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD – ORGANISATION

South Metropolitan TAFE

South Metropolitan TAFE is one of Western Australia’s most diverse training providers. It offers more than 340 qualifications, including tailored, relevant welding and fabrication training. Their facilities are world-class, providing students with hands-on experience in a real-life industry setting. South Metropolitan TAFE is Western Australia’s most trusted industry partner for trades training and workforce development with over 10,000 apprentices— equivalent to 40% of WA’s market share. The TAFE has a proven track record of producing job-ready workers, winning the 2022 Academic Institution of the Year Award at the Australian Defence Industry Awards.

TRAINING AND EDUCATION AWARD – INDIVIDUAL TEACHER

Darren Way, South Metropolitan TAFE

Having been a boilermaker and fabricator for over 20 years, Darren has gained extensive hands-on industry experience since commencing his apprenticeship in 1989. He worked as a fabricator and workshop manager for an impressive array of industry leading outfits before becoming an industry trainer in 2008. Darren is a big believer in personal development and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of Australia’s welders. All his students and colleagues agree that he demonstrates high level safety awareness, a strong work ethic, a passion for sharing his skills, knowledge and experience, and a real ability to connect with his students.

YOUNG TRADESPERSON OF THE YEAR

David Jonas, Bossong Engineering

David joined Bossong Engineering in 2019. He quickly assumed the role of leading for Bossong’s hardbanding operation in Karratha. Within six short months, he commenced his boilermaker apprenticeship and dedicated his time to training in heavy fabrication and welding techniques. As a result of David’s dedication, he fast-tracked his apprenticeship, completing it in 3.5 years. He is now undertaking additional training that will see him take on the role of Manager of the Bossong PTA division, overseeing several robots and completing jobs for customers in the oil and gas industry. David’s contribution to such a wide scope of work and commitment make him a deserving winner.

WELDING PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

Mathew Lee, Taylors Engineering and Welding Services

With a successful career spanning over 10 years, Mathew is an expert welding quality control and assurance supervisor. He is currently the Quality Assurance and Control Manager at Taylors Engineering and Welding Services. He has worked across various industries, from mining through to construction, and attained a high level of skill in a broad range of mechanical and management disciplines. Maintaining the highest degree of integrity and adherence to safety, he takes professional development seriously. Mathew holds an Welding Specialist (IWS), International Welding Inspector - Standard (IWI-S), and AS 2214 Welding Supervision qualifications.

Geoff Crittenden opens the WA Awards for Excellence. Sapphire Bengiler, Runner Up Young Tradesperson of the Year.

Members of the South Metropolitan TAFE team.

BOC BRINGS SMOOTHARC ADVANCE MIG MACHINES TO THE NEXT LEVEL

BOC Gas and Welding is pleased to introduce the launch of its new range of Smootharc Advance III MIG inverter welders. Steel fabricators who already know the advantages of using BOC Advance II MIG welders will be excited by the new developments in the Advance III range. For those metal fabricators who don’t know and who are looking for welding machines that offer the right processes, power capacity and the reliability they need to get a quality job done then please read on.

BOC’s workhorses just got better. The BOC Smootharc Advance III range of compact and remote MIG welders offer smooth welding characteristics and are loaded with high duty cycles for light to heavier industrial applications. Five new MIG welders, each with full digital control with LCD design, deliver fine tune settings for optimum performance.

Designed with high productivity in mind, these machines are not only MIG welders but have the added ability to MMA and Liftarc TIG, with our 425R and 555R BEAST models also able to gouge up to 8-9.5mm.

Easy set up wire feeding system includes a four-roll feeder for secure and robust feeding. IP23 insulation rated, BOC’s Smootharc units

are built to stand up to the tough conditions normally found within the welding industry. You can tell once you start using them. These machines perform like workhorses and will stand by you until the job gets done.

Built for hard workers. Once you get used to the power and stamina of the BOC Smootharc Advance III machines, you’ll appreciate the finer features such as ergonomically designed and robust steel handles, crane lifting points, hooks to keep cables in place and large wheels for easy manoeuvring. The full Smootharc Advance III range includes:

Compact models – MIG 225C and MIG 255C

Ideal for light industrial fabrication, maintenance workshops, automotive repairers, light construction, and sheet structures (ducting). The Smootharc Advance III 225C is designed to operate from a convenient 15A single phase outlet while the larger and more powerful Advance III 255C delivers full power from a 32A single phase outlet.

Remote models – MIG 255R, MIG 425R and MIG 555R BEAST

Ideal for Medium to heavy engineering fabrication, maintenance

workshops, earth moving equipment and maintenance, trailer construction and repairs, structural engineering, container construction and repairs.

Package includes a Binzel torch, electrode holder, regulator, work return lead, wire feed rollers, gas hose and operating manual. Remote models include external wire feeder with 10m inter-connecting cable. Optional extra for all models include the BOC TIG torch (Part no: MMATIG) - purchased separately. For the MIG 425R and MIG 555R BEAST there is an optional cooling unit –purchased separately.

The Smootharc series complies to AS/NZS 60974-1, IEC/EN 6097410 for quality assurance and safety and is backed by BOC’s five-year conditional warranty. Overall, professional welders will appreciate the ease of use and affordability these machines offer.

BOC’s new Smootharc Advance III welding range is now available in Australia and New Zealand. For more information ring 131 262 (AU) or 0800 111 333 (NZ) or visit www.boc.com.au or www.boc.co.nz

This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

SMARTER GAS FOR HIGHER PERFORMANCE

Quality and productivity improvements are crucial for any company wishing to become or remain competitive in the welding industry. There are significant links between the shielding gas mixture components and welding optimisation. This means that selecting the most suitable gas mixture for your application can offer significant benefits.

Shielding gases have a primary function to protect the weld pool from contamination and provide stability to the welding arc. The most common welding gases are pure argon as the default ‘go to’ product when using GTAW, or as the base gas in mixtures with the addition of carbon dioxide and/or oxygen for other common welding processes such as GMAW, MCAW, and FCAW. These additional gases in a mixture assist with benefits in welding speed, geometry, and weld finish, designed to cover most core welding applications that require a gas shielded arc.

With shielding gases, many parameters of the welding process can be controlled and optimised for specific applications. The gas or gas mixture must be selected to bring about the desired effects. Possibilities for optimisation include virtually every factor in the welding process. Physical properties of the gas affect metal transfer, wetting behaviour, depth and form of penetration, welding speed, fume formation, spatter rates, and arc setting.

Chemical properties influence the metallurgical behaviour as well as the weld surface qualities. Oxygen for example, burns off alloy constituents and leads to more fluid weld pools, while carbon dioxide adds carbon, supports weld penetration, and gives slightly reinforced welds. Argon and helium show metallurgically neutral behaviour and hydrogen acts as a reducing agent. The addition of hydrogen also has the benefit of reducing surface oxides in some applications, which leads to a higher quality weld finish and less clean up time.

The thermal conductivity influences weld forming, weld-pool temperature, degassing, and welding speed. For example, the welding speed and penetration can be markedly increased by the addition of helium in the GMAW and GTAW of aluminium materials, or by the addition of

Coregas have products and service solutions that span across all modern welding and fabrication applications. Their solutions are continuously reviewed by their product and industry experts. This is supported by customer and industry stakeholder led discussions to ensure their product and service offering is both innovative and fit for purpose. Contact Coregas to discuss the productivity advantages of their high performance gas products: 1800 807 203 or coregas.com.au

hydrogen in the GTAW and GMAW of some stainless steel and nickel materials. These higher-performance shielding gas mixtures come under the ShieldPro® product group as part of the Coregas shielding gas complete product range.

One of the major benefits from the higher performance ShieldPro gas mixture range is where productivity can be improved in your production processes. Faster welds, improved deposition rates, increased weld penetration, and less clean up time can amount to cost savings that far exceed any extra investment towards a premium gas product selection. Coregas can assist with these reviews to support any productivity gains that could be achieved through a change in gas mixture.

This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

Argon GTAW of austenitic stainless steel. Weld speed of 70mm/min

ShieldPro® 22 GTAW of austenitic stainless steel. Weld speed of 110mm/min

Argon GMAW of aluminium at 280A / 25V

ShieldPro® He25 GMAW of aluminium at 282A / 27V

ShieldPro® He75 GMAW of aluminium at 285A / 34V

HOW COLLABORATIVE ROBOT WELDING CAN HELP SOLVE THE WELDING LABOUR SHORTAGE

Welding practices have dramatically evolved over the last 60 years.

In 1962 the concept of robotic welding was made a reality with the first real-world spot-welding application being implemented into the assembly line of General Motors, enabling the full-automation of this dangerous task (Automate, 2017).

This became a fundamental addition to the manufacturing space as the use-cases for robotic welding – and in this case, fully-isolated industrial robots working in human-free zones –started to quickly become ubiquitous across the industry in the decades to come. The ability for these robotic welding systems to increase the overall efficiencies of manufacturers skyrocketed the output capabilities of manufacturers that could justify the significant investment required – both from a financial and factory space perspective.

Fast forward to 2022: industrial robotic welding systems are as ubiquitous as ever – still requiring the significant aforementioned investment – but a new problem has emerged to perturb the abilities of manufacturers; and that is the availability of skilled labour. Weld Australia reported to ABC in 2022 that a range of fabricators in Queensland are working at about 50% capacity due to this world-wide (not just Australia, unfortunately) skilled labour shortage and that this is to the direct detriment of meeting demand from the renewables sector.

Well, if robots can automate welding tasks, then what problem does a skilled labour shortage pose? Some would ask. Industrial robots are not a viable solution for many manufacturers who require welding tasks to be completed. While they are exceptionally proficient at the welding

tasks they do automate, for example, high volume, long duty cycle welds, such tasks as these are not always the norm for all metal fabricators and jobbing shops.

If you’re welding together car chassis as the first industrial welding robot did for General Motors, then an industrial welding robot is likely an ideal fit for you – you’ve probably got significant factory floor space, high throughput requirements, and are comfortable with the spend; to name but a few reasons.

So, for manufacturers that aren’t suited to using industrial welding robots, are they at the mercy of trying to find what little skilled labour exists in the market? Well, no – and here’s why.

Where 60 years ago industrial robotic welding began the automation of certain welding tasks, another evolution is occurring this year with the introduction of collaborative robotic welding specifically addressing the skilled labour shortages. The new addition to the manufacturing capabilities space for welders is collaborative robot welding: robots that work collaboratively alongside

Collaborative robot welding - the welder’s mate and what we call the Weld Mate 355 - is ideal for lowvalue, repetitive welding tasks, and keeps your weld team focused on higher-skilled and complex work. The cobot welders work side-by-side in collaboration with human welders, and are ideal for short-run, high-mix welding applications, allowing your operations to overcome skilled labour shortages by enhancing your existing welding capabilities. Cobot welding bridges the gap between skilled human welding and industrial robot welding, is easy to program, fast to deploy, and significantly boosts your welding productivity, quality, and consistency.

Cobot welding, the solution to this very real world-wide skills shortage, is poised to assist manufacturers of all sizes operate at full capacity and help revitalise the manufacturing capabilities of Australian businesses. If you’d like to learn more about the Weld Mate 355, visit Diverseco’s website for more information

This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

human welders in a collaborative environment.

AUTOMATE YOUR WELDING WITH COBOTS

IDEAL FOR HIGH-MIX, LOW-VOLUME TASKS

COMBAT LABOUR SHORTAGES

IMPROVE EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY

ENQUIRE NOW TO GET WELDING

The cobot Weld Mate 355 from Diverseco is your welding buddy and is designed to perform the time-consuming and menial tasks, enabling your human welders to perform the more complex and specialised tasks.

UPSKILLING WITH OUTSOURCE INSTITUTE (AUS): WHY IT SHOULD BE PART OF YOUR STRATEGIC PLAN

Certificate IV in Engineering

Are you looking for ways to retain key Engineering related team members? Are you wanting to increase your company’s competitiveness, commercial viability, and corporate knowledge? Then the Certificate IV in Engineering is your solution.

When the economy is down, choose to look up. Upskilling demonstrates to your employees, clients and a range of other stakeholders that your business is committed to a better future. Upskilling your team can improve your competitiveness, productivity and employee retention. Choosing to harness the opportunities available—even during an economic downturn— can be a winning strategy for businesses and their workforces.

Outsource Institute (AUS) provides advanced trade training in the metals and engineering sector to upskill workforces and individuals in trade and technical skills enhancing both company’s and Australia’s sovereign capability. Having partnered with industry for over 20 years, they offer training in the areas of advanced welding, fluid power and mechanical engineering. They deliver specialised skill sets in advanced hydraulics, pneumatics, air conditioning, project management and leadership and management.

Just some examples of their training include:

1. Austal Services: Certificate IV in Engineering, currently delivering a FluidPower outcome stream onsite.

2. ASC Shipbuilding: currently delivering Advanced Diploma of Engineering and Diploma of Engineering Technical qualifications to develop the skills required to meet current and future ship building qualification requirements relevant to the participants job role.

3. BAE Systems: Certificate IV in Engineering, including faceto-face delivery to 35 students who are maintenance workers, welders and welding supervisors. The training covers AS1796 certificate 10 and AS2214.

Curious to learn what funding you may be eligible for? Contact the training and development specialists at Outsource Institute (AUS) today on 1300 136 904 for a customised and complimentary proposal.

This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

By undertaking this course, participants will further enhance the skills and knowledge they have learnt within their current trade. Depending on the specialisation chosen the skills and knowledge which may be developed can include advanced skills in the design, assembly, manufacture, installation, modification, testing, fault finding, commissioning, maintenance, and service of equipment and machinery.

Additionally, participants may also gain skills in the fabrication of structures and assemblies, manufacture of sheet metal work, and use of relevant machinery, equipment and joining techniques.

Undertaking this course with Outsource Institute (AUS) reduces downtime for employers too, as we conduct the training within your workplace using your machinery, tools, policies, procedures, and real-world projects. At Outsource Institute (AUS) we pride ourselves on our ability to contextualise our training and assessment to fit within the industry and the learner’s world of requirements and experiences.

Upon successful completion of Certificate IV in Engineering, Engineers will now be recognised as a Higher Engineering Tradesperson or a Special Class Engineering Tradesperson - Level II.

Click here to learn more.

PROQM: YOUR PARTNERS FOR QUALITY CONTROL SUPPORT

With many years of experience working with some of the largest construction companies in Australia, ProQM specialises in a range of inspection skills to help deliver construction projects on-time, on-budget and to the highest quality possible.

ProQM has a team of dedicated surveillance officers and inspectors to undertake inspections for various disciplines, in a range of industries including: Tier 1 and 2 construction companies; and Construction supply chain, structural steel fabricators and architectural steel suppliers, precast manufacturers and coatings contractors. ProQM tailors all its systems to suit

the size of the business or the scale of the project. NATA accredited to ISO/IEC 17020 Bodies Performing Inspection, ProQM can provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 construction companies with accredited reports that meet the VicRoads requirements for structural steel, structural and precast concrete, and protective coatings. If your construction company requires leeway suppliers, structural steel fabricators or architectural steel suppliers, ProQM can help.

ProQM is focused on ensuring that your construction projects run smoothly and efficiently for first time right deliverables. Their reporting

Welding Inspection

When the structural steel fabricator is awarded the contract to supply the structural steel elements, ProQM is engaged to firstly review their quality management system and ensure that their traceability and Manufacturer’s Data Record (MDR) is populated according to the project requirements. From there, welding procedures and welder qualifications are reviewed and approved, and an inspection schedule is generated based on the program.

During the structural steel fabrication process, ProQM ensures that the welding operator is qualified according to the approved

steel girders, gantries, and structural steel for infrastructure, buildings and train stations. ProQM also covers welding inspections in the oil and gas industry on pipeline projects and offshore platforms.

Precast Inspections

ProQM carrries out pre-pour inspections as per Technical Bulletin 47 (TB47), which covers the stressing of pre-stressed elements and ensures all the reinforcement and casting items are as per the design and meet Australian Standards. Post-pour inspections are also completed to ensure components are acceptable for delivery to their relevant project. Elements inspected by ProQM include pre-stressed super-T beams, pre-stressed L-beams, crossheads, columns, barriers, parapets, match casting, and various other elements for infrastructure projects.

Welding Inspection

ProQM understand the essential need for welding inspection to ensure that welded joints are up to Australian Standards.

Coatings Inspections

Following the blasting process, ProQM will inspect the coatings as per Technical Bulletin 48 (TB48). Under this guide, ProQM performs an inspection of the substrate, which includes profile measurement, the class of the blast, and testing for any substrate contamination. Once ProQM inspects the substrate, we can then give the approval to commence painting. During, and following each coat of paint, we inspect to ensure the application and finish are acceptable.

Factors such as the corrosion environment, steel structure design, and surface preparation and application methods can impact the coatings process. However, ProQM will work alongside the coatings contractor to ensure the coatings conditions are the best they can be to

achieve a high quality finish.

Quality and Safety Auditing and System Development

ProQM undertakes auditing in line with ISO 9001 for Quality, ISO 14001 for Environmental and ISO 18001 for Safety, to ensure companies accredited to these standards are compliant. ProQM also conducts project-specific audits, covering project management plans during the design, delivery, and completion of the project. ProQM can also help to create detailed quality and systems for construction companies.

For further information, contact ProQM on 1800 467 767 or enquiries@proqm.com.au, or visit: proqm.com.au.

This article was provided as part of a paid sponsorship package.

Concrete Inspection

With over thousands of precast pre pour inspections, ProQM has extensive experience in many projects varying in types and complexity.

Coating Inspection

Coatings provide an integral part to a construction element, durability and corrosion protection is paramount to preserving your investment.

2022: A YEAR IN REVIEW

Welcome to Weld Australia’s 2022 Year In Review – a look at our successes, projects and programs over the last 12 months, as well as that of our members. Throughout the year, we continued to strengthen our advocacy work, facilitated a host of member events, and were involved in a range of industry events. We continued to reinforce our membership offering, and provided high-quality training courses and certification services.

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 primary goal—ensuring that the Australian welding industry remains both locally and globally competitive, both now and into the future. The entire Weld Australia team is looking forward to a busy, successful 2023.

11,570 Welders Registered on the Australian Welder Certification Register (AWCR)

4,429 People in the Weld Australia Community

735 People Attended Events

312 People Commenced Training Courses

WELD AUSTRALIA’S ADVOCACY IN 2021

shortage—not political posturing and promises that cannot be kept,” said Crittenden.

As such, Weld Australia advocated for a radical four-pronged approach to overcome the nation’s skilled welder shortage that includes: an overhaul of welding apprenticeships; tapping into hidden sources of talent; refocussing STEM training in schools; and investment in TAFEs nationally.

Sovereign Manufacturing Capability

As the peak body for welding in Australia, our primary goal is to ensure that the Australian welding industry remains both locally and globally competitive, both now and into the future. In all our advocacy activities, our over-reaching vision is to facilitate the growth of a world class welding industry.

As the urgency of Australia’s COVID-19 response fell from the headlines, the lasting affects of the pandemic on the global economy became clear. These were coupled with the ongoing war in Ukraine, a severe shortage of skilled labour, and supply chain issues.

However, Weld Australia’s role remained clear: to provide highquality advocacy services to members. Weld Australia’s advocacy agenda focused on training initiatives for the next generation of welders and fabricators, building a sustainable and productive local industry, and ensuring superior welding quality standards and public safety.

Skills Shortages

Weld Australia estimates that, unless action is taken now, Australia will be 70,000 welders short by 2030. This urgent issue is not unique to Australia; the US will face a shortage of 500,000 welders by 2030, and Japan estimates a shortfall of 250,000 welders by 2050. This global shortfall of welders is driving most developed nations to implement extraordinary measures to resolve it— Australia must follow suit.

According to Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia), “Australia does not have the welders to deliver the nation’s critical energy, defence, rail and infrastructure projects. We will be unable to deliver on the Federal Government’s promises, like renewable energy targets that require fabrication of wind towers, solar panel structures, hydrogen plants and battery processing plants. Access to the global supply chain for fabricated steel products is a high-risk and expensive proposition.”

“We need a practical, actionable plan that can be implemented now to overcome the welder skills

In 2022, Weld Australia continued to push for further investment in sovereign manufacturing capability. Weld Australia has long urged the federal and state governments to support local manufacturers, welders and fabricators in their procurement processes. Local procurement has the power to create thousands of jobs, a solid local supply chain, and an industry equipped to export worldclass products all over the world.

According to Crittenden, “There is a real opportunity for the federal and state governments to invest in creating a robust, resilient manufacturing industry that can compete on the world stage. Government procurement practices that support local welders and fabricators will create thousands of jobs, supporting local economies in a post COVID-19 world.”

“With a long-term procurement commitment from the state governments, Australian manufacturers will have the confidence to reinvest in their own capabilities, strengthening the industry from within. This type of business innovation strengthens businesses and creates new and better jobs, which together support a move to higher living standards. Innovation investment by business is crucial to our ongoing prosperity.”

“In recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, this type of economic expansion is essential; both the Federal Government and the Reserve Bank of Australia have emphasised how important it is for state governments to spend money. And yet, our state governments consistently spend our money overseas.”

“Offshoring manufacturing, welding and fabrication work to the likes of China, South Korea and Spain weakens Australia’s economy.”

“If all our governments adopted a nationally consistent procurement process that considered whole of life costs and prioritised local content, not only would it create thousands of jobs, it would deliver better quality public transport. Locally fabricated trains would adhere to all relevant Australian and international Standards, reducing expensive rework and repair. Cheap imports from overseas often cost more in the long run,” said Crittenden.

Quality and Compliance

The quality and accuracy of the entire lifecycle of the welding process must be carefully controlled, from design right through to inspection. This type of approach is essential because it is impossible to undertake complete verification of a welded joint without destroying it.

Inspection after completion does not guarantee weld serviceability. Quality must be built into the welding process, right from the very beginning. Welding must be done correctly the first time. A weld cannot be adjusted once it is complete. The only course of action is to scrap the weld entirely, and start again.

As such, the welding processes set out in Australian and International Standards are crucial—they must be followed exactly. Standards like AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials must be implemented. Welders, welding supervisors and welding inspectors

The Langi Kal Kal Prison Program

Australia’s prison population continues to grow at a rate that is four times that of the general population. According to the most recent figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, from 30 June 2020 to 30 June 2021, the total number of Australian prisoners increased by 5% to 42,970.

As at 30 June 2021, the median age was 35.6 years for all prisoners. When comparing the prison population to the general adult population, prisoners are much younger—2 in 3 (65%) prisoners were under 40, compared with about 2 in 5 (40%) in the general adult population. Many prisoners have education and skill levels well below the Australian average. Almost 2 in 3 (63%) prisoners have an education level of Year 8 or below.

And, possibly most concerning, once prisoners enter the correctional system, finding their way out can be tough. The Productivity Commission’s latest report on government services found that, in 20202021, the rate of prisoners returning to prison in Victoria was 43.6%.

All these statistics paint a clear picture: our prison population is rapidly expanding, and is increasingly comprised of younger people and reoffenders. This gives rise to the need for practical rehabilitation and vocational education and training (VET) programs that can help alleviate recidivism.

The introduction of VET programs as part of prisoner rehabilitation offers opportunities for prisoners to reduce this disadvantage, increasing the likelihood of successful re-integration into the community and reducing the risk of reoffending. A recent study confirmed that participation in VET whilst incarcerated helps prisoners to remain custody free post-release. In fact, prisoners who successfully completed VET were 59.96% more likely to remain custody free at two years post-release; and 78.23% more likely to remain custody free at five years post-release.

Given the proven success of VET programs for prisoner rehabilitation, in 2022, Corrections Victoria expanded the VET Centre of Excellence model to deliver Fusion Welding to ISO 9606 certification standard to complement their Metal Fabrication industry at HM Prison Langi Kal Kal. Federation University delivers the training program with the support of Weld Australia and on-site prison industry staff.

As part of the program, augmented reality training was introduced to expand the welding skills of the prisoner learners to meet international standards. A welding workshop sits alongside the augmented reality training room so that participants can work on projects to use and practice their welding skills in the physical as well as virtual environments. To participate in the program, prisoners are invited to submit an Expression of Interest and then selected through an interview process. Up to eight participants can be accommodated in the intensive 14-week program.

With Australia facing a looming shortage of skilled welders—70,000 additional welders will be needed in the next 10 years—Weld Australia advocated for the national roll-out of this important program.

If you’d like to get involved as a prospective employer, click on the link below and complete the quick and easy Expression of Interest form.

must be qualified to ISO 9606 Qualification testing of welders

If these Standards are not followed, then there is a significant chance that a weld will fail—with possibly catastrophic consequences. Imagine the collapse of a stadium or a bridge; how many bystanders would be seriously injured or worse?

“When it comes to welding, we cannot simply wave a magic wand and make a weld safe after the fact. Welding is a highly complex process based on science and research that requires an in-depth understanding of metallurgy and materials science, as well as enormous discipline and rigorous application of the correct processes and procedures,” Crittenden explained.

Weld Australia has advocated for a whole-of-industry approach to upholding these Standards. Some of the biggest players who rely on these Standards are often caught refusing to support the participation of their own staff in Standards Committees.

“The welding processes set out in Australian and International Standards are crucial. Standards exist for a reason; to ensure public safety. When it comes to welding, we cannot simply wave a magic wand and make a weld safe after the fact,” Crittenden said.

If these Standards are not followed, there is a significant chance that a weld will fail—with possibly catastrophic consequences. Weld Australia continues to collaborate with its members to ensure these Standards are followed.

Cobotics and Automation

The welding industry is fast evolving. Welding is no longer a dirty, precarious job, conducted in dark workshops. In fact, the sector has become a place for bright, talented, and technically-minded personnel to learn and create infrastructure for a modern Australia.

The introduction of modern technologies, like cobots and

automation is paving the way for the manufacturing of high-tech equipment for the aerospace and defence industries. Cobots, or collaborative robots, make automation easier for businesses of all sizes. They are designed to share the workplace with humans. They are versatile, lightweight and relatively easier to program.

“Australian industry is also developing and investing in cutting-edge technology to help ameliorate looming skills shortages. Automation, robotics and collaborative robots are changing the way the welding and manufacturing industries work,” Crittenden said.

These devices can play a crucial role when it comes to leaner manufacturing, eliminating errors, and reducing bottlenecks. In fact, automation has the power to deliver a $2.2 trillion boost to Australia’s national income by 2030, according to research commissioned by Google. Automation is also expected to increase safety among workers. Strategy and economic advisory business AlphaBeta, also estimated an 11 per cent drop in workplace injuries in companies where there is widespread adoption of cobots.

“Weld Australia members have demonstrated extraordinary innovation and invested in leadingedge technology in order to maintain production schedules and grow their businesses throughout what has been an incredibly difficult time over the last two years. It is this ability to innovate that has continued to ensure that Australian manufacturers are resilient, profitable and readily able to compete on the world stage,” Crittenden said.

Women in Welding

As part of the ongoing skills shortage conundrum, Weld Australia continues to push for more women in welding. In fact, recent research found that increasing women’s participation in the paid workforce would address Australia’s current skills shortage and have long-lasting impact on productivity in Australia.

MAJOR MEDIA COVERAGE IN 2022

Weld Australia recently appeared on ABC’s Q+A. Bailey Greathead asked a fantastic question around how the government plans to de-stigmatise apprenticeships versus university.

RADIO INTERVIEWS

Geoff Crittenden secured a range of radio interviews this year, including:

• 2CC Canberra - Afternoon on 3 August (recording unavailable)

• ABC Radio Ballarat - Breakfast on 24 August

• 2GB / 3AW Radio - Money News with Luke Grant on 30 August

• ABC Radio Canberra - Drive on 30 August

• 2BS Bathurst Radio - Drive on 27 September

• ANM Hunter Valley - Drive on 20 October (recording unavailable)

• ABC Illawarra - Mornings on 20 October (recording unavailable)

• ABC North West Queensland on 25 October (recording unavailable)

The analysis, conducted by Impact Economics and Policy, shows that unlocking women’s workforce participation could fill job vacancies and address critical skills shortages predicted between now and 2026. The report also found that halving the workforce participation gap between men and women would represent an additional 500,000 fulltime skilled workers with post school qualifications.

“Gender equity and diversity in the construction and manufacturing industry workforce is a persistent problem that exacerbates skills shortages, reduces economic

Geoff Crittenden (CEO) and Michael Pitt (National Manager Education and Training) spoke about VET programs for prisoner rehabilitation on ABC’s The Drum

WATCH THE TODAY SHOW

CHANNEL 9’S TODAY SHOW Channel 9’s Today Show broadcast live from TAFE Queensland’s Acacia Ridge training centre this year. The broadcast demonstrated the benefits of welding simulators for training.

productivity, and constrains innovation. Encouraging the participation of women in maleoriented industries such as construction, manufacturing and welding is long overdue in ending the cycle of employment disparity, gender pay gap, and representation of women in management positions.”

“We need a proactive, targeted approach that engages and recruits women into the trades, new and innovative trade training programs designed specifically for women, and measurable gender diversity targets set by the Federal Government,” Crittenden said.

ABC’S Q+A

ABC’S THE DRUM

WELD AUSTRALIA 2022 MEMBER SURVEY: RESULTS ANALYSIS

Weld Australia conducted a Member Survey in 2022. The results demonstrate that significant concerns remain for Australia’s welding industry. In particular, Australia’s fabricators are being forced to turn down work due to a severe shortage of skilled welders.

According to Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia), “Distributed in June 2022 and completed by approximately 140 companies, our 2022 Member Survey indicates that skills shortages, local content and sustainability remain high on the agenda for the welding industry.”

“When asked what they are most concerned about, almost 64% of senior managers cited lack of skilled

staff in an extremely constrained recruitment market (see Figure 1). This comes as little surprise, with Australia facing a looming shortage of skilled welders—70,000 additional welders will be needed by the end of the decade.”

“With a considerable volume of work being onshored in the wake of international supply chain disruptions, most Australian fabrication companies are so strapped for skilled welders that they are working at anywhere between 30% and 50% of their full capacity. They are being forced to turn down jobs because they simply don’t have the manpower to complete the work. This is having a major impact on production and causing delays throughout downstream industries including building and construction, mining, oil and gas, and manufacturing,” said Crittenden.

It is little wonder that half (see Figure 2) of the survey respondents have a pipeline of work that extends for six months or longer—this protracted pipeline is necessary in the face of these ongoing skills shortages. By way of context, this is a marked increase on Weld Australia’s 2020 member survey results. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the most common answers were a pipeline of work that extended less than one month (at 28%), one month (19%), and two months (16%).

Given the concern over Australia’s looming skills crisis, it makes sense that 95% of respondents support the concept of free TAFE, increased funding to upgrade TAFE facilities, or both initiatives. Clearly, the welding industry is looking to the government to help increase the supply of skilled labour over the coming years.

Figure 1. As a business owner, or senior manager, which issue are you most concerned about?

Figure 2. How many months ahead does your pipeline of work extend?

“Our members are also investing in their own welder training programs. BHP, Komatsu, JRS Manufacturing, Maxi-Trans and Precision Manufacturing Group have all established their own schools. While industry appreciates the rollout of government-funded TAFE places, it remains to be seen whether this initiative will translate into high completion rates. Moreover, while encouraging more students into TAFE is always a positive, government spending also needs to focus on resources for TAFEs, teachers and equipment—TAFEs need the right tools to teach this sudden influx of students,” said Crittenden.

Industry is also investing in advanced welding technology to help overcome skills shortages. Over 28% of respondents indicated that their company or the company they work for has purchased robots or cobots, and 25% has invested in Industry 4.0 capabilities (see Figure 6). A range of other types of technology was also mentioned, from drones and automated welders, through to various software solutions.

Despite the skills shortages, local procurement and content targets remain top of mind for the welding industry. 100% of respondents confirmed that they would support Federal and State Government policies to increase Australia’s

Survey Respondent Demographics

The majority of survey respondents were based in Queensland (at 28%), followed closely by New South Wales (23%), Victoria (19%) and Western Australia (16%).

The largest age group was over 65, accounting for 16% of respondents. In line with industry trends, 78% of respondents were over the age of 40 (see Figure 3).

The most commonly cited highest level of education was an apprenticeship or vocational training at 30%, followed by International Welding Specialist at 23%, Bachelor Degree at 13% and Masters Degree at 9%.

Salaries are relatively healthy compared to Australia’s average wage (of $67,860 per annum); 20% of respondents indicated that their salary is between $100,000 and $125,000, and 17% take home over $150,000 per annum.

Overwhelmingly, respondents are employed full-time (72%). Another 16% indicated that they are business owners and 9% are either employed part-time or as a sub-contractor. The remaining 3% are retired. At 23%, the majority of respondents have worked for their current employer for over 20 years (see Figure 4).

Over 51% of respondents work for a business in the fabrication, manufacturing or engineering industry, 12% work for a business in the mining and resources industry, 10% in the education and training industry, and 7% in testing and NDT. The vast majority of these businesses are quite large; 32% of respondents indicated that the company they work for has over 500 staff.

However, SMEs were also well represented, with 16% of respondents confirming that the business they work for has under 10 staff members (see Figure 5).

Figure 3. What is your age?

Figure 4. How long have you worked for your current employer?

Figure 5. What is the size of your business, or the business you work for?

share of fabricated steel product to at least 75% as part of a joint government-industry plan to grow the manufacturing industry.

“Importantly, whether it is imported or locally manufactured, all fabricated steel erected in Australia must comply with Australian Standards. Weld Australia is committed to ensuring that no Australian lives are lost through an accident caused by noncompliant welding, without causing undue regulatory burden on industry. We firmly believe in quality welding for structural safety,” said Crittenden.

Inflation and rising costs were also of concern for approximately 23% of respondents, followed by weak international supply chains (9%) and reliability and affordability of power supply (4%).

Environmental Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility

Australia is rapidly moving from carbon fuelled power generation to a renewable energy system. In June 2022, Prime Minister Anthony

Albanese announced more ambitious climate targets. Albanese pledged to cut carbon emissions by 43% from 2005 levels by 2030, up from the previous government’s target of between 26% and 28%. Given these targets, private companies will play a key role, making sustainability a priority for many businesses. As such, our 2022 member survey asked a series of environmental sustainability focused questions.

Welders are environmentally responsible. 30% of respondents support the target of zero emissions before 2050; 20% prefer cutting emissions by 35% by 2030; and another 17% support cutting emissions by 43% by 2030. In addition, 74% of respondents would support a Federal Government package to help employees transfer from carbon intensive to carbon free industries.

Clearly, Australia’s welding industry is already taking steps to reduce its carbon emissions. While 41% of respondents have already installed

solar panels to supplement power supply, another 53% have installed LED or sensor lighting, 46% have waste reduction programs in place, 46% operate recycling, up-cycling or repurposing programs, and 13% have a net zero carbon plan in place.

When asked if an electric or hybrid ute was available in Australia at a competitive price would you buy them for your company or employees as fleet cars, 50% of respondents answered in the affirmative. Interestingly, 63% of respondents would buy an electric or hybrid UTE for themselves.

Corporate responsibility remains a growing area of focus for the welding industry. Over 63% of respondents indicated that they have initiatives aimed at improving opportunities for women; 63% promote opportunities for apprentices and trainees; 63% have diversity and inclusion initiatives in place; 59% have mental health and fitness initiatives in place; and 31% have a Reconciliation Action Plan.

Figure 6. Has your business, or the business you work for, invested in advanced welding technology?

Figure 7. How would you rate the prospects of your business over the next six to 12 months?

Weld Australia reintroduced its Welding Excellence Awards in 2022. The Awards embody and promote the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality and professionalism. The 2022 Welding Excellence Awards presented a fantastic opportunity for welders, fabricators and educators across Australia to showcase their people and their operations. Winners will be awarded in each state for each of the award categories below. Award ceremonies will be held around the country in November and December.

Company of the Year

The Company of the Year Award recognises superior performance across a comprehensive range of business metrics including: innovation, quality assurance, market success, corporate social responsibility, health and safety, sustainability, and training and development of employees. There are three sub-categories:

• Company of the Year – Fabrication

• Company of the Year – Gas & Gear

• Indigenous Company of the Year

Welding Professional of the Year

This Award recognises professionals who are making a valuable contribution to the Australian welding and fabrication industry. The individual should demonstrate a high level of skill, knowledge or craftsmanship, be dedicated to their profession, and have professional development plans in place. There are three sub-categories:

• Welding Professional of the Year – Welding Coordinator

Welding Professional of the Year – Welding Supervisor

• Welding Professional of the Year – Welding Inspector

Project of the Year

The Project of the Year Award recognises excellence in welding and fabrication projects, with a focus on exceptional craftsmanship, a commitment to Australian and International Standards, environmental sustainability and innovation. Projects must have been completed in the 12 months preceding 1 October 2022.

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Young Trades Person of the Year

This Award recognises people under the age of 25 who are making a valuable contribution to the Australian welding and fabrication industry. The individual should demonstrate a high level of skill, knowledge or craftsmanship, be dedicated to their profession, and have professional development plans in place.

Young Indigenous Trades Person of the Year

This Award recognises indigenous trades people under the age of 25 who are making a valuable contribution to the Australian welding and fabrication industry. The individual should demonstrate a high level of skill, knowledge or craftsmanship, be dedicated to their profession, and have professional development plans in place.

Training and Education Award – Organisation

The Training and Education Award recognises the outstanding achievements of a STEM or VET provider or program. Entrants may include secondary education and tertiary education providers. Criteria include delivery of quality, innovative training programs, involvement with industry, recruitment and retention of students, and corporate social responsibility.

Training and Education Award – Individual Teacher

This Award recognises the outstanding achievements of a STEM or VET teacher at TAFEs, independent RTOs and private companies. Entrants will be judged on criteria such as delivery of quality, innovative training programs, high level of knowledge or craftsmanship, strong links with students, and dedication to their profession.

WORKSHOPS, SEMINARS AND MEMBER EVENTS IN 2022

Each year, Weld Australia facilitates a variety of member-focused events to help ensure that the Australian welding industry remains strong, competitive and upto-date with advancements in everything from technology, through to Australian Standards. Our events give members the opportunity to network and collaborate with like-minded individuals throughout the industry. With COVID-19 restrictions easing, Weld Australia was able to introduce face-to-face events back into the calendar.

Talking Standards Webinar

Online, March

The Western Australia State Committee presented an interactive webinar discussing AS/NZS 9606 Qualification testing of welders –Fusion welding – Steels. The webinar covered everything there is to know about this Standard, it’s application within the workplace and important facts to remember. Attendees were invited to voice any questions or concerns they had about the Standard and were welcome to take advantage of the Western Australia State Committee’s expert knowledge on the matter.

Skilling for the Future

Online, March

Weld Australia’s Training Manager, Guy Brooks, guided attendees through the importance of training and how to decide what training and qualifications are the right choice. Starting with a broad overview of the status of welder skills and training in Australia, Guy noted there is a shortage of labour present as the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. The session highlighted the importance of upskilling and emphasised the benefits of investing in training and certification.

Pipeline Repair, Hot Tapping and In-Service Welding Courses

Sydney, March and Adelaide, April

Presented by William A. Bruce (Director, Welding and Materials Technology at DNV), the Pipeline Repair, Hot Tapping and In-Service Welding course was held in both Sydney and Adelaide across four days. The course offered a review and critical analysis of various aspects of pipeline modification and repair while addressing the concerns associated with welding onto inservice pipelines. The course was completed by over 25 students.

Cobot Case Study Online, April

As the application of collaborative welding robots—or cobots for short— gains traction in the industry, it is important to consider the benefits of cobots and how they might be used in welding long term. This interactive online session presented by Novarc Technologies, looked at some reallife case studies on applications of cobots in industry and considered the positive impact of cobots, such as resolving ergonomic issues, cost reductions and improving safety.

Pipeline Repair, Hot Tapping and In-Service Welding Courses.

Students from the Pipeline Repair, Hot Tapping and In-Service Welding Course..in Sydney

2022 Standards Update

Online, April

Weld Australia hosted a session for over 200 attendees on Australian Standards. The session was facilitated by Bruce Cannon, Weld Australia’s Principal Welding Engineer. Bruce discussed the revisions that have been made to Australian and New Zealand welding-related standards in the last 12 months, including why the changes were made and how to get involved in the public review process of Standards. A highly informative and engaging webinar, all feedback received from attendees was very positive.

Welding Vision Technology Event

Online, May

Weld Australia hosted a Welding Vision Technology Event presented by Xiris Automation. Attendees learnt how Xiris Weld Cameras are being applied in industry and welder training. The webinar covered topics such as: an introduction to weld cameras, weld monitoring software innovation and integrations, using weld cameras in welder education, metal process research and industrial processes, and innovation via thermal analysis. Xiris helps manufacturers detect, recognise, and interpret quality defects in manufactured goods.

AS/NZS ISO 3834: Helping Secure the Future of Australia’s Welding Industry

Mackay, May

Weld Australia delivered a three-part workshop for the Mackay Manufacturing Hub on the benefits of certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834 certification. Paolo Corronca (National Manager Engineering), Victor Blain (Engineering Team Manager - South and West) and Ross O’Bryan (Engineering Team Manager - East) facilitated the training. Certification helps Australian businesses demonstrate their ability to deliver a compliant, superior quality welded product on time and to budget.

The Cost and Economics of Welding

Online, June

Every year, welding manufacturing operations lose millions of dollars in profits due to the improper calculation of costs and inefficient welding practices. Facilitated by Victor Blain, this member event covered learnings from the industry. It helped attendees learn how to identify and manage the costs of production to reduce expenses and ensure quality; how to calculate the costs of welding; and understand the main factors influencing weld costs to highlight where it is possible to optimise the welding process and save money.

Welding Vision Technology Event.

Photo Introduction to K-TIG. K-TIG is a highly refined, keyhole variation of GTAW both with or without filler. It excels in Austenitic Stainless Steels, Carbon steels, Titanium, Zirconium, Duplex and Super Duplex, Nickel, Monel, Inconel and Hastelloy.

Welding Technology Showcase

Mackay, June

Weld Australia celebrated the launch of newly formed Mackay Committee with a technology showcase at BOC Mackay’s centre of welding. The event was co-hosted by BOC, Independent Welding Supplies, Diverseco and the Mackay Manufacturing Hub. Attendees had the opportunity to hear from Weld Australia CEO, Geoff Crittenden, who opened the event, followed by a panel of welding industry experts who delivered interactive and engaging demonstrations. The event was a great opportunity for the local industry.

Introduction to K-TIG

Online, August

K-TIG is a highly refined, keyhole variation of GTAW both with or

without filler. It excels in Austenitic Stainless Steels, Carbon steels, Titanium, Zirconium, Duplex and Super Duplex, Nickel, Monel, Inconel and Hastelloy. This presentation, delivered by Bill Kelly (Chief Technical Officer, K-TIG) included a close up look at the K-TIG process, with a practical demonstration of the system and how it can be applied in both piping and pressure vessel applications.

AS

1796:

Overview for Users

Online, August

AS 1796 is the Australian Standard related to the qualification of welders, welding supervisors and welding inspectors for pressure equipment. Last published in 2001, the Standard needed to be revised to align with current trends and international best practice. This online presentation

provided an overview of the 2022 edition focusing on alignment of welder requirements to AS/NZS ISO 9606.1, updating the welding supervisor requirements consistent with AS/NZS 2214 and the transition process for inspectors to Certificate 11.

Winning Business: The Glencore GCAA Welder Qualification Scheme Case Study

Online, August

Presented by Garry Horner, who worked in the coal industry for his entire career, this event delved into the Glencore GCAA Welder Qualification Scheme. It provided insights into the types of welder qualifications required, why Glencore implemented the scheme, and the factors that led to its success. With the assistance of MC Quality and

Weld Australia, Garry developed a GCAA Welder Competency training program for Glencore’s full-time boilermakers and third party repairers performing these weld repairs.

Automation Technology Night

Adelaide, August

Held on-site at the TAFE SA Regency Campus, this presentation highlighted the latest welding automation technology and its broad range of applications to improve welding ergonomics and increase productivity and quality. The event also covered various cost saving applications that can easily double the production rate of a welding workshop by increasing the arc time and reducing labour, gas and filler metal costs compared to manual welding.

The Need for AS/NZS ISO 3834 and AS/NZS 5131 Certification

Melbourne, September

Held in conjunction with the ASI, this event covered both AS/NZS ISO 3834 and AS/NZS 5131, outlining the benefits and processes involved in gaining the two certifications. Presenters included Victor Blain, Bushan Salunke (General Manager, Steelwork Compliance Australia) and Michael Dawson (State Manager, ASI). AS/NZS 5131 defines good practice for fabrication and erection of structural steelwork for projects in Australia and AS/NZS ISO 3834 specifies the production control requirements for fusion welded product.

AS/NZS ISO 3834: An Overview

Online, September

Weld Australia hosted a webinar that provided an overview of AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials. The presentation detailed what AS/NZS ISO 3834 is, how it is structured, why you need it, the requirements outlined in the standard, the benefits of undergoing the certification process, as well as the steps involved in the certification process. The webinar was presented by Weld Australia team members Victor Blain and Bruce Cannon.

ASME Section IX Three Day Courses

Perth and Brisbane, November

Facilitated by Walter J. Sperko (President of Sperko Engineering Services), this three-day course was held in both Perth and Sydney. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standard regulates the design, development and construction of boilers and pressure vessels. ASME Section IX specifies the requirements for the qualification of welders and the welding procedure specifications. This three day course gave participants a working knowledge of ASME Section IX, including how to comply with its requirements.

Further Information

For further information about Weld Australia’s events, or to register for an upcoming event, visit our website: weldaustralia.com.au

Welding Technology Showcase in Mackay.

Welding Technology Showcase in Mackay.

Welding Technology Showcase in Mackay.

INDUSTRY EVENTS IN 2022

With COVID-19 restrictions easing, industry conferences, exhibitions and expos were back in full force. From expos and career fairs, through to INDO PACIFIC and National Manufacturing Week, Weld Australia was on hand to answer questions and represent the Australian Welding industry.

INDO PACIFIC 2022

Sydney, May

The INDO PACIFIC 2022 International Maritime Exposition featured the largest exhibitor turnout in the event’s 20-year history. It is believed to be the largest defence industry event ever held in Australia, after a record number of participating exhibitor companies presented at the event. Weld Australia’s stand proved popular with attendees, with people keen to try out the Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators. It was a great opportunity to talk to members and other industry experts about shipbuilding opportunities.

Aboriginal Career Exploration Expo

Adelaide, May

Weld Australia was invited by South Australia’s Department for Education to attend the Aboriginal Career Exploration (ACE) Expo. The aim of the Expo was to help promote career pathways in the fabrication, manufacturing and steel industry. Held in Adelaide, the event attracted approximately 500 students. With several Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators available, the students enjoyed getting hands-on with virtual welding. Weld Australia also had several students sign up for our free Student Membership.

Careers Day Out Expo

Shepparton, May

Weld Australia’s interactive stand at the Careers Day Out Expo in Shepparton proved extremely popular with students. Now in its 24th year, Careers Day Out is the largest education, training and employment expo in Northern Victoria. Over 1,800 students from years 9 to 12 visit the Expo each year. The event included a range of workshops, demonstrations

and talks to provide students with the opportunity to engage and interact with local businesses and trades to see what the workplace is all about.

Australian Manufacturing Week

Sydney, June

Owned and operated by AMTIL, the inaugural Australian Manufacturing Week (AMW) took place in June at the International Convention Centre Sydney. The theme for 2022 was Where technology meets innovation AMW exhibited some of the very latest manufacturing technologies, processes and support services with more than 170 organisations taking stands. Weld Australia also exhibited, with our Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator on-hand.

CSIRO Generation STEM #WithSTEMYouCan Careers Expo

Sydney, June

Weld Australia had the pleasure of attending and presenting at the CSIRO Generation STEM #WithSTEMYouCan Careers Expo alongside S&L Steel. Generation STEM will deliver programs that attract more diverse, high-potential high school students into NSWbased STEM educational pathways. Many enthusiastic students tried their hand at welding using our Sodamatic augmented reality welding simulator at our stand. It was safe to say that there was a healthy amount of competition amongst students.

INDO PACIFIC 2022.

Engineering, Manufacturing and Technology Expo

Perth, June

Hosted by EMICoL and Innovation Central Perth, Weld Australia had the pleasure of attending the Engineering Manufacturing and Technology Expo at Curtin University in Perth. Attended by industry, academics and students, the event proved to be a great opportunity to engage with EMICoL members and partners. Weld Australia had its Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator on-hand for attendees and students to try. As always, it proved very popular with the crowd.

Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME)

Mackay,

July

For almost 30 years, the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) has been at the heart of the mining sector in Mackay. Weld Australia shared a booth with Outsource Institute at QME 2022. This year, QME featured over 250 suppliers and attracted over 5,000 visitors across three days. Weld Australia

shared its knowledge around how to upskill workforces and individuals in trade and technical skills to help more businesses in the region enhance both their own and Australia’s sovereign manufacturing capability.

IBSA Group’s Manufacturing Skills Forum

Melbourne, August

Weld Australia CEO Geoff Crittenden was invited to attend the IBSA Group’s Manufacturing Skills Forum in Melbourne. IBSA Group brought together manufacturers, union leaders, peak bodies and training providers to share opinions and insights into the strategies needed to address the skills needs of the manufacturing sector. Expertly hosted by ABC journalist Ellen Fanning with many Australian industry experts speaking, it was an interesting, thought-provoking day.

Climate and Energy Mini Jobs Summit

Canberra, August

Following the IBSA Group’s Forum, CEO Geoff Crittenden attended the

Climate and Energy Mini Jobs Summit at Parliament house, hosted by the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the Hon Chris Bowen MP. The summit brought together key stakeholders to help discuss energy industry jobs now and in the future. The event examined the investments and pipelines required to upskill workers in preparation for the opportunities in renewables across the country.

Canberra CareersXpo

Canberra, August

Weld Australia exhibited at the Canberra CareersXpo at Exhibition Park. An annual event, the Canberra CareersXpo is conducted in conjunction with ACT Education. It seeks to provide valuable career guidance and advice on career opportunities available to secondary students throughout the ACT and surrounding NSW schools network. This CareersXpo is the largest event of its type in the region with over 100 local and national exhibitors. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.

Australian Manufacturing Week.

Aboriginal Career Exploration Expo

Careers Day Out Expo.

PREMIER WELDER TRAINING

Weld Australia is Australia’s premier welder training organisation. We understand the value of ongoing professional development and are committed to upskilling the next generation of welders. This year, we progressed with the MEM 2.0 Welder Learning Resources project, launched the new Welding Fundamentals course, made a range of improvements to our online exam system, and facilitated several tailored in-house training courses. All this and more was achieved while delivering our usual high quality calendar of training courses.

New Welding Fundamentals Course Launched

Weld Australia facilitated its first Welding Fundamentals courses early in the year. The course gives technical personnel working in the metal and manufacturing industry an overview of welding processes, defects, testing and qualification as required by Australian and International Standards.

Weld Australia taught two intakes of the brand new course. The first session was open to the general public, and facilitated via six sessions over Zoom. The second session was run for BHP employees in Western Australia. The format was tailored specifically for

103 IWI-B Students

135 IWE Modules Taught

45 IWS Modules Taught

BHP, with lessons taught over the course of three consecutive days. The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive. Over 92% of attendees found the module on Weld Procedures and Documentation relevant, while over 82% of attendees found the module on Standards highly relevant.

MEM 2.0 Learning Resources

Weld Australia is making significant progress with the national Metals and Engineering online learning resources project. Weld Australia is working with TAFEs across the country through the National TAFE Consortium to create excellent online resources.

According to Michael Pitt, (National

605 Modules Taught in Total

Manager Education and Training, Weld Australia), “We are creating a set of national resources mapped to the national MEM training package, so that learning resources for trade students are consistent across the country.”

“This will help ensure consistent training, regardless of where in the country students undertake that training. The new resources are completely online and accessible via phone, mobile device or computer. This will allow students to access learning at the time, place and pace that suits them best. We are very excited about the project and are already seeing some great results.”

242 Welding Supervisor Modules Taught

80 Welding Fundamentals Students

Weld Australia circulated the new learning resources to members of the National TAFE Consortium. The feedback was extremely positive. As a result, South Metropolitan TAFE in Fremantle, Western Australia is running an official pilot using the new units of competency and online resources.

Once again, the feedback received from students and lecturers alike has been extremely positive. Weld Australia will continue working closely with TAFEs nationally on further development and uptake of the resources.

In-House Training and Testing

Weld Australia facilitated in-house training and welder testing for a whole host of companies in 2021.

Joseph Sandor (Welding Technology Trainer, Weld Australia) lent a hand to TAFE NSW’s Deniliquin campus in February. TAFE NSW was having difficulty sourcing a Welding Inspector to test the students in their training course for AS 1796 Certification of welders and welding supervisors. Given Sandor’s extensive experience within the TAFE system, he was only too happy to oversee the exam.

In February and March, Weld Australia delivered training for Monadelphous across their Gladstone and Singleton sites, covering both the IIW International Welding Inspector - Basic (IWI-B) qualification and the Welding Supervisor AS 2214 qualification.

Over two days in May, Weld Australia facilitated a Welding Fundamentals course for Schenck Process Australia. The course was tailored specifically for Schenck with a focus on critical clearance, heat affected zone and distortion. There were 20 students in attendance, all of whom were engineers.

We delivered ISO 9606 ‘Train the Trainer’ training to teachers from both Federation TAFE and Corrections Victoria in Ballarat in June. The training encompassed multiple welding processes, as well as multiple Welding Procedure Specification (WPS).

In September, Weld Australia facilitated in-house Welder Supervisor training for ASC in Perth, in line with AS 1796 Certificate 10 and AS 2214.

Improvements to the WeldQ Online Exam System

Earlier this year, Weld Australia rolled out a major new feature for WeldQ, the online exam system. Students are now able to complete online written exams using a single platform.

The process has been streamlined as much as possible to ensure that students can focus on the task at hand— achieving the best possible exam result. With the new process, students will use the robust WeldQ platform, along with interactive QR Codes to complete their exams.

Weld Australia also launched a brand new phone app version of the WeldQ platform. The app is available for download via both the Android and iOS platforms.

Courses

The app has made accessing the WeldQ platform—and all the vital information stored within the platform—even easier for welders and employers alike. It will be particularly handy for use on-site or in a workshop when a computer is not readily available.

AN UPDATE FROM THE AWTCs

Weld Australia has worked with partners around the country to secure State and Federal Government funding for the establishment of Advanced Welder Training Centres (AWTCs). Using the state-of-the-art Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators, the training delivered at the AWTCs quickly qualifies welders to the only industry Standard in the world that is accepted in both Europe and America: ISO 9606-1 Qualificationtestingofwelders–Fusionwelding . This Standard is the minimum requirement for working on rolling stock, defence and infrastructure projects, which are crucial to onshore Australian manufacturing and a stronger national economy.

Advanced Manufacturing School Outreach Program

In June 2020 NSW Department of Education and Training (DET) ordered 32 Augmented Reality Welding Simulators (ARWS) to be deployed on a pilot program in 16 schools. The schools ranged from the Wagga Wagga, Lake Illawarra and Dapto high schools in southern New South Wales, to the Gorokan and Kurri Kurri High Schools in the Lower Hunter region.

During October and November 2020, Weld Australia commissioned the machines and conducted training for teaching staff. The first pilot commenced at the beginning of Term 1 in 2021. The simulators have been used to teach high school students studying subjects like Manufacturing and Engineering; and Industrial Technology (Metal).

Based on the success of the first pilot program, the NSW Department of Education ordered a further 22 simulators in late 2021 for another 12 high schools in regional areas including Cobar, Bourke, Broken Hill, Bathurst, Temora, West Wyalong, Shepherds Park and Junee.

In 2022, a further 28 simulators were ordered and commissioned, with Weld Australia delivering teacher training for 14 high schools in Bateman’s Bay, Camden Haven, Dubbo, Evans, Great Lakes College, Gunnedah, Heathcote, Nowra, Macksville, Morisett, Mount View, Muswellbrook, Vincentia and Whitebridge.

To date, 82 welding simulators are installed at 40 high schools across New South Wales.

QMI’s Women Who Weld Program

Throughout the year, Weld Australia participated in the Queensland Manufacturing Institute’s (QMI) Women Who Weld Program. The program aims to increase gender diversity and participation in manufacturing careers.

It provides the opportunities for female high school students in years 10, 11 and 12 to gain insight into trade skills and career pathways, including local employment opportunities. The program was facilitated at several high schools across Queensland.

Training for Students at Central Queensland (CQ) University

Weld Australia facilitated a training session for first year apprentices studying welding at Central

Queensland (CQ) University. During the session, students reviewed an ISO 9606-1 qualified procedure, looked for essential welding parameters, and then practiced welding within those parameters using a Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulator.

Training at TAFE Queensland’s Nambour and Maryborough Campuses

In January, Weld Australia helped with the training programs being facilitated by TAFE Queensland’s Maryborough and Nambour campuses for working apprentices. The training days included training to ISO 9606-1 using the Soldamatic augmented reality simulators as well as additional information on quality and safety when welding. Augmented and virtual reality training is enabling future welders to acquire the skills and the self-confidence they need before moving into real-world workshops.

Augmented Reality Welder Training at Queensland Schools

Throughout the year, Weld Australia facilitated augmented reality welding training in high schools across Queensland, including in Caboolture, Brisbane, and Yeppoon. Students had the opportunity to undertake augmented reality welding training in line with ISO 9606.1 Qualification testing of welders. After just a few hours of practice, students were achieving results required to achieve qualified welder status.

Murrumbidgee High School STEM Program

The Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence (MASE) was treated to a demonstration of their new Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators from Joseph Sandor (Welding Technology Trainer, Weld Australia). Joe walked staff, students and even industry professionals Heath and Craig from A&G Engineering through the new technology. The group got to pitch their abilities against one another using the augmented reality welders’ scoring feature.

The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy’s Tradies for a Day Program

During 2022, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA), the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC), delivered its Tradies for a Day program. The program is a day of exciting, resources-related activities with a focus on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) as well as trade roles. Weld Australia assisted with several of the programs throughout the year, providing Soldamatic augmented reality welding simulators with pre-loaded exercises, all ready for students to try their hand at welding.

Further Information

For further information about Weld Australia’s training, contact training@weldaustralia.com.au

2022 AUGMENTED REALITY WELDING TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS PROGRAM

Weld Australia facilitated the 2022 Augmented Reality Welding to Industry Standards Program at the Outsource Institute. International Advanced Diploma of Engineering students had the opportunity to upskill and add to their professional portfolios by undertaking augmented reality welding training in line with ISO 9606.1 Qualification testing of welders. The students were given an opportunity to learn about welding, including quality control, safety aspects and following welding procedures. After just a few hours of practice, the students were achieving results required to achieve qualified welder status. This demonstrates just how much augmented reality can accelerate the learning process for students.

LINKING MEMBERS: WELD AUSTRALIA’S INDUSTRY GROUPS IN 2022

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.

POWER GENERATION INDUSTRY GROUP

Meetings of the Power Generation Industry Group were held in the offices of CS Energy (Brisbane) over 22 and 23 June 2022. A huge vote of thanks to CS Energy who provided excellent facilities, catering and support for the IT systems required to manage the meetings and online attendees.

The Power Generation Industry Group comprises:

1. Boiler Industry Group

2. PG9 Project

3. Process Safety Industry Group

4. Asset Integrity Board

There were four meetings held over two days. The meetings covered a wide range of subject material with many highly detailed presentations.

A summary of each of the meetings is outlined below.

Boiler Industry Group

With 35 people in attendance, the meeting was opened by Geoff Crittenden (CEO, Weld Australia). Geoff provided an industry update, touching on the nation-wide shortage of skilled welders and the MEM2.0 Learning Resources that Weld Australia is developing in conjunction with TAFEs. Geoff also detailed the issues related to wind tower manufacture and the import of towers considered to be non-compliant with Australian Standards. Weld Australia is calling for local manufacture and compliance with Australian Standards.

CS Energy gave a presentation on the boiler dry out and preservation procedures following the major turbine incident at the Callide C4 unit which occurred on 25 May 2021. This process was subjected to a wide range of conditions, issues and constraints arising from the turbine incident which required actions well beyond normal operating conditions and requirements.

CS Energy also provided an overview of a failure in a reheater cross over tube at Kogan Creek Power Station. The root cause was found to be excessive weld root concavity on one of the connecting welds. These welds were undertaken at the time of manufacture through a robotic welding process. The implication was that all welds would have the same fault.

Energy Australia gave a presentation on layup practices for wet and dry storage of boilers. These practices had been developed at the Mt Piper Power Station covering a number of plant requirements, scenarios and layup durations.

Les Sabo (Managing Director, Uneek Bending) provided an overview of Uneek Bending, which specialises in the bending of tubes and other types of steel. Les also discussed the Acoustic Gas Temperature Measurement System (AGAM) which has been developed by Germanbased Bonnenberg & Drescher. This system uses an array of acoustic transmitters and microphones to measure time differences between sending and receiving and so accurately determine the temperature of flue gases. This is particularly applicable to boiler flue gas exit ducts.

Wayne Hill (Principal Engineer Boilers and Pressure Parts, EnergyAustralia) spoke about an investigation into post outage boiler tube leaks after major unit outages. One possible scenario was debris which can accumulate in boiler tubes and orifice plates leading to flow starvation and tube failure. This led to a discussion on the use of rice paper during boiler tube weld repairs and the need to

Photo: Power Generation Industry Group meeting attendees.

use the correct type of paper for draft reduction during weld repairs.

HRL is currently working on a project to review flexible operations for Power Generation Industry Group member power stations. This mode of operation is extremely important, particularly as the industry is transitioning towards net zero carbon by 2050 and phasing out coal fired power stations. HRL’s presentation focused on how a process for flexible operations may be implemented.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of current issues and future directions over the next five to 10 years. The discussion focused on the current market and transition towards the closure of coal fired power stations.

PG9 Project

The Power Generation Number 9 Project (PG-9) is being conducted within the Boiler Industry Group. The objective of the project is to develop a database of certified weld procedures which will then be accessible by the project members. The project is funded and managed by the members.

The database is currently well developed and populated. The logistics for access and procedures for future qualifications and certifications are issues being addressed. PG-9 project members conducted a progress meeting.

Weld Australia has engaged a specialist welding engineer Louise Petrick to work on the PG9 project. Louise brings a depth of knowledge and experience to the PG9 project which is most welcome. Louise will now focus on reviewing progress to date and carrying out weld procedure testing, certifications and qualifications and bring the project to completion.

Process Safety Industry Group

With over 30 people in attendance, Geoff Crittenden opened the meeting. This was followed by an open discussion around baseline audits. A number of issues were raised, from skills shortages, process safety, welder

certifications, chartered engineers, and the need for process safety to be accompanied by cultural change. Wade Underhill (CS Energy) gave an update on the progress of implementing process safety at CS Energy. A rigorous program of training is being undertaken across the entire CS Energy organisation, including a separate training package aimed at company leaders. While establishing the systems is easy, the implementation of training and cultural change is hard.

Ryan James (Director, OXT Group) spoke on the topic of risk assessment, focused on improved performance monitoring, and risk control within a commercial environment. Ryan emphasised that process safety cannot succeed without leadership, or cultural change.

Ian Rawlings (Chief Mechanical Engineer, CS Energy) gave a presentation on a near miss incident that occurred on the Callide B2 precipitator inlet duct. Operational conditions caused the dust loading in the duct to accumulate and overload one of the duct supports. The duct did not suffer a failure of the support but was considered to be a near miss.

There were many learnings from this incident, including:

• Gas velocities in ducts

• Throttling of outlet dampers

• Maintenance of precipitators

• Process safety risks to be fully assessed in conjunction with health and safety risks

Industry Group members then discussed general safety incidents and learnings. The first incident was an issue with a vertical 9m duct that ran from the top of a boiler to an air heater. A crack had developed in the duct, and an expansion joint was found to be locked up due to a build up of ash. In addition, constant load hangers were found to be out of adjustment. A major failure could have occurred if the crack had developed.

The next incident raised was the discovery of asbestos-looking material around some thermocouples during

boiler maintenance. The asbestos register indicated that asbestos had been removed in the area, but did not detail the particular level and location of where the asbestos had been removed. The key takeaway from this incident was that staff need to be trained to be aware of asbestos.

An issue which occurred with the controls on some newly installed tanks was then reviewed. There was a mismatch on the valve identification on the vessels. Testing was carried out on components only and the mismatch was not identified. This underscored the importance of thorough testing of all aspects of tanks.

The TransGrid Tallawarra switchyard transformer failure and resultant fire was raised as a prime example of a catastrophic failure.

Monorails, cranes and lifting equipment are often over looked, but need ongoing maintenance and certification. A near miss was discussed which emphasised the need for ongoing maintenance and certification.

Finally, the Process Safety Good Practice Guide is nearing completion but requires final editing. This is to be undertaken by a smaller committee and presented at the next meeting.

Asset Integrity Board

The role of the Asset Integrity Board is to discuss the high-level strategic directions for the Power Generation Industry Group.

Members discussed high level issues affecting each of the companies, with a focus on flexible and low load

operations. The transition from coal fired plants to renewable energy is a massive issue and will not happen overnight. It will also require massive resources to complete and specialist knowledge in areas like BESS, pumped storage, wind and hydrogen.

All members agreed that mentoring and skills development were of the utmost importance. A range of other issues was discussed, from skills shortages, aging plant, failure modes, and the use of non-destructive testing.

The next meeting of the Asset Integrity Board will be held on 23 November online. The next meetings of the Boiler Industry Group and Process Safety Industry Group will be held on 30 November and 1 December 2022 in Melbourne.

DEFENCE INDUSTRY NETWORK

During the COVID the Weld Australia Defence Industry Network experienced a hiatus. Weld Australia is now in the process of restoring and reinvigorating the Defence Industry Network.

The Defence Industry Network will focus on companies who are either already operating in the defence industry, or have ambitions of joining. Our aim is to ensure that contractual commitments to Australian Industry Content and Indigenous Participation are honoured.

The Defence will also focus on:

• Contracting issues and the supply chain issues.

• Compliance with Australian

Standards, and certification and accreditation to Australian Standards.

• Australian local manufacture and equal opportunity.

• Advocacy to Government.

Earlier this year, Weld Australia announced that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Australian Industry and Defence Network (AIDN). Weld Australia and AIDN will cooperate and collaborate on matters related to their members and will engage in joint events.

Membership of the Weld Australia Defence Industry Network will be free of charge for all Weld Australia Premium Corporate Members.

Just some of the benefits include: networking with others in the defence industry, addressing technical and welding issues, discussing supply chain issues and solutions and accessing Weld Australia training, resources and specialist personnel. Weld Australia will organise and facilitate all meetings, with agendas and areas of interest driven by members. Areas of Proprietary or Confidential Information will be recognised and appropriately managed by all participants.

Further Information

For details, contact: Andrew Davies (Manager Technical Industry Networks) on 0438 428 966 or a.davies@weldaustralia.com.au

WELDING SAFETY COUNCIL

The Welding Safety Council (WSC) met on 4 May 2022. Membership of the WSC includes safety regulators from around Australia, suppliers to the welding industry and the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH).

Bruce Cannon (Principal Welding Engineer, Weld Australia) provided an update from the International Institute of Welding. In particular there was some concern regarding the importation of a new form of handheld laser welding machine. These are potentially available to the public and may pose significant safety issues to untrained users. Weld Australia will review further and will also review standards and regulations in relation to the use of such lasers.

Bruce also provided a presentation on some of the dangers associated with voltage controls on some DC welding machines. There are some machines where the DC output has fluctuating ripple in the voltage which may act as alternating current and give rise to a safety issue with users. Bruce will prepare a briefing paper on this issue.

WELD AUSTRALIA WELCOMES NEW INDUSTRY GROUPS MANAGER

Andrew Davies joined Weld Australia in February 2022 as Manager, Technical Industry Networks. Andrew boasts over 40 years of in-depth engineering and asset management experience across a number of power stations in New South Wales, including coal fired, gas turbines and hydro plant. Andrew will manage our Industry Groups, facilitating meetings and networking. This role was previously carried out by Alistair Forbes who has now retired. We wish Alistair all the best in retirement and thank him for all his work with the Industry Groups.

An update was also provided on the AIOH conference held in March 2022. In particular the issue of the health effects of welding fumes was discussed.

A paper on women’s health in the welding and electrical trades was presented. The study revealed no marked difference between the welding and electrical trades. There was no significant increase in fetal loss in welding trades compared to

THE BENEFITS OF INDUSTRY GROUP MEMBERSHIP

• A confidential forum for discussing issues with peers

• A unified body that advocates for change among industry clients

• Advantageous access to technical advice and engineering support

• The opportunity to benchmark against industry best practice

• A conduit between industry and research organisations

• Beneficial nationally and internationally accredited training

• Cost effective certification products and services

• Collaborative sharing of resources and services for repair options in accordance with Australian and international standards

• Opportunities to influence Australian Standards, contract terms and specifications

• Opportunity to participate in research and development projects

• Technology transfer and networking via industry specific forums

electrical work. The study did identify some actions (vibration and extended work rotations) which appear to be potentially modifiable factors of some importance.

A report of an electrical shock during welding was discussed. While the nature of the electric shock was low level, it had the potential to be higher and more serious.

The next meeting of the WSC will be held in late 2022.

UPDATES TO AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS IN 2022

Australian Standards are living documents. They reflect progress in science, technology and systems. To maintain their relevancy, all Standards are periodically reviewed, with amendments and revised editions published. The last 12 months have seen several developments, including reviews into standards related to pressure equipment, steel structures and pipelines. Weld Australia also released a range of updated technical and guidance notes.

Pressure Equipment

Committee ME-001 completed a revision of AS 1796 Certification of welders and welding supervisors, and it was published on 24 June 2022.

As previously reported, users have reported a number of issues with the revised AS 3992 Pressure equipment—Welding and brazing qualification (published in June 2020), and amendments have been prepared to address the issues raised. Public comment has been resolved and the amendment is being prepared for ballot.

The revision of AS/NZS 3788 Pressure equipment—In-service inspection is progressing. The initial draft has been completed and submitted for preparation for public review. Public review is likely to commence in the first quarter of 2023.

Welding Consumables

Committee WD-002 met in March 2022 to review Australia’s suite of

ISO-based welding consumable standards. Projects have been initiated to revise the GMAW and FCAW suite of standards, including a proposal to supersede AS 4882 Shielding gases for welding with ISO 14175 Welding consumables — Gases and gas mixtures for fusion welding and allied processes

A project was also initiated to adopt the GTAW consumable standard ISO 636 Welding consumables — Rods, wires and deposits for tungsten inert gas welding of non-alloy and fine-grain steels — Classification to complete the GTAW suite of standards. The intention is to supplement and retain the existing AS/NZS 1167.2 Welding and brazing — Filler metals Part 2: Filler metals for welding. Public comment on all adoptions and revisions is complete and they were published in October.

Welding Safety

A proposal has been submitted and accepted by Standards Australia to

revise AS1674.1 Safety in Welding and allied processes—Part 1 Fire precautions. The standard is used extensively in industry to establish fire preventative measures whilst welding in locations not necessarily designed for hot work. The project is intended to clarify what is meant by the term ‘hot work’ and include provisions to assist small business and sole traders. A drafting committee is currently being constituted by Standards Australia and kick-off is anticipated in January.

Associated with this project is a proposal to update AS 2812 Welding, brazing and cutting of metals — Glossary of terms. Kick-off meetings for both projects are currently in the early planning stage. This project will commence in December.

Bridges

The revision of AS/NZS 5100.6 Bridge design — Part 6: Steels and composite construction is well advanced. The revision will align the

requirements of the standard with the latest revision of AS 4100 Steel structures and the New Zealand steel structures design standard NZS 3404.1. The revision will resolve known conflicts and anomalies via an amendment.

ISO Update

ISO TC44/SC10 has commenced the revision of ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials series of standards primarily to take cognisance of changes to ISO 9001 Quality management systems — Requirements and the 2019 edition of ISO 14731 Welding coordination — Tasks and responsibilities. Parts 1 to 5 inclusive have been published and a project request has been submitted to Standards Australia to adopt the latest revisions.

These ISO Standards are currently open for public review for adoption as AS/NZS ISO Standards. Part 6 of ISO 3834 is being revised by ISO to become an ISO Standard in lieu of a technical report and it is currently at the DIS ballot stage. Consideration for adoption in Australia will commence after finalisation by ISO.

TC44/SC10 has also been revising ISO 17660 Welding—Welding of reinforcing steel. This edition is planned to combine the two existing parts into a single document. A DIS ballot has been held and comments are currently under review. Due to the large number of technical changes within, a second DIS review and ballot will need to be held.

Similarly, ISO TC44/SC11 has been revising ISO 9606-1 Qualification testing of welders— Fusion welding— Part 1: Steels to combine all 5 parts into the one standard. This will simplify the ongoing maintenance and review requirements for the standards currently published as parts 2 to 5 of ISO 9606-1.

Weld Australia Releases Updated Technical and Guidance Notes in 2022

Several of Weld Australia’s Technical Notes and Technical Guidance Notes were updated this year, as noted below. All our Guidance Notes are available via the website, free of charge for Weld Australia members.

TGN-SG09: Inspection and Test Plans

Published in 2022, this Technical Guidance Note is a guide to the writing and use of Inspection and Test Plans (ITP’s) typically utilised throughout the welding and construction industry. Originally developed for use with AS/NZS ISO 9001 quality management systems, these documents are also specified for use in AS/NZS 5131, and may be useful in the production planning and application of inspection and testing requirements of AS/NZS ISO 3834.

TGN-SW04: Welding Safety - Audit Checklist

Published in 2022, this Technical Guidance Note assists users to identify hazards associated with welding and its allied processes. It draws upon the recommendations of a range of Weld Australia’s Technical Notes and Technical Guidance Notes and is presented in the format of a selfaudit form. It may be particularly useful when identifying hazards associated with welding and related activities, and where additional control measures may be required.

TGN-PG03: Control of Distortion in Welded Structures

This Technical Guidance Note is a revision of Weld Australia’s Technical Guidance Notes on distortion control, originally published by the Welding Technology Institute of Australia (WTIA). It is designed to assist the fabricator in the production of welded structures with minimal distortion, and where distortion occurs, provides guidance on distortion correction techniques.

TGN-PG02: Minimisation of Fatigue in Welds

Published in 2022, this Technical Guidance Note is a revision of Weld Australia’s various Technical Guidance Notes on fatigue improvements of welds including the dressing of welds to minimise fatigue, originally published by the WTIA. This guide is designed to assist the fabricator in the enhancement of weld bead shape when conformance with AS/NZS 1554’s Category FP and fatigue improvement methods have been specified.

TN-18: Welding of Castings

This Technical Note is a revision of the 1987 edition, with changes made primarily to updated health and safety requirements and references to standards. Importantly, references to welding consumables have been updated consistent with current recommendations and designations. This Technical Note is designed to give practical guidance together with some background information on the welding of various castings. It is intended to assist all involved in the welding repair and fabrication of castings in the foundry, maintenance and fabrication shop.

COMPANY CERTIFICATIONS IN 2022

Weld Australia would like to congratulate all the companies that were awarded certification in 2022, including:

• 12 new companies certified to AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials , bringing the total to 75 companies

• 6 new companies certified to EN 15085 Railway applications –Weldingofrailwayvehicles , bringing the total up to 13 companies

• 6 new companies certified to DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes - Quality requirements to be met by production and maintenance companies for military products , bringing the total up to 8 companies

Certification demonstrates a company’s ability to deliver a compliantly welded product, on time and on budget. Certification increases your potential to enter international markets with a competitive edge and improves the likelihood of repeat business.

All Industries Group

All Industries Group is an innovative, multi-disciplinary design, engineering and fabrication specialist. Based in Yeppoon, Queensland, the company delivers turnkey solutions for local, national and international clients. All Industries Group is focused on delivering the best quality, price and speed for all their clients. Their team has extensive tooling capabilities to produce full in house manufacturing for specialised products across a range of sectors: underground, open cut, construction, and mobile plant and rollover and falling object protective systems. For further information, visit: allindustries.com.au

Australian General Engineering

A market leader in metal fabrication services, Australian General Engineering (AGE) provides full product and development services from concept to final product. With facilities in both Melbourne and Vietnam, AGE offers CNC laser cutting, CNC turret punching, CNC brake pressing and folding, other cutting services, height access equipment, and mechanical and electrical enclosures for applications in heavy vehicles, automotive, shop-fittings, rail infrastructure and agricultural and farming. For further information, visit: austgen.com.au

DVR Engineering

DVR Engineering provides manufacturing solutions for a range of clients across the defence, telecommunications, rail, aerospace, mining and marine sectors. The company operates in 30,000m2 over two manufacturing facilities, with more than 95 staff operating advanced manufacturing equipment for end-to-end solutions. With over 33 years of precision metal engineering experience, DVR boasts the latest CNC machining, laser and plasma cutting and machining technology. For further information, visit: dvrengineering.com.au

Hofman Engineering (Bassendean)

Established in 1969, Hofman Engineering has long been an industry leader in specialist engineering. With a dedicated research and development team, Hofman promises an innovative approach to meeting their customers’ needs and continued improvement of their technology. Hofman services industries such as mining, defence, transport, manufacturing and agriculture on a global scale with facilities in Australia, Chile, Peru, North America, India and China. For further information, visit: hofmannengineering.com

JRS Manufacturing Group

JRS Manufacturing Group is a Toowoomba-based steel fabrication and welding company that specialises in fabrication consultation and construction of plate, pipe and structural steel products for clients in the civil, energy, mining, agricultural, oil and gas industries. Established in 2014 with a small team of five people, JRS rapidly expanded to workforce of over 50 people offering pressure pipe fabrication and welding, abrasive blasting and coating, medium to heavy plate fabrication, specialised surface treatments, CNC and general machining and assembly. For further information, visit: jrsmanufacturinggroup.com.au

K&S Metal Fabrication

A family operated business, K&S Metal Fabrication boasts over 20 years of experience in metal fabrication across the industrial, commercial and residential sectors. Based in Smithfield, New South Wales, the company assists architects, builders and interior decorators in bringing their ideas to life with bespoke and custom work. Their services include welding, cutting, drilling, turning, hole punching and CNC plasma cutting. For further information, visit: kandsmetalfabrication.com.au

Knox Engineering

Founded in 1948, Knox Engineering specialises in metal forming, welding and general engineering. Based in Ingleburn in Western Sydney, but serving all regions of Australia, the Knox Engineering team and factory are equipped to handle both large and small projects. They provide expertise in steel and aluminium fabrication, repair welding and straightening, sheet metal fabrication, pulsed and pressure welding, metal piercing and cutting and general engineering. With a reputation for quality and reliability built over more than 60 years, Knox Engineering is one of Sydney’s premier metal fabricators. For further information, visit: knoxeng.com

Marand

Founded in Melbourne in 1969, Marand is a global supplier of precision engineered solutions to a range of industries, including aerospace, defence, rail, automotive, mining and energy. Offering total manufacturing solutions to their clients, Marand’s services include project management, design, manufacture, installation, commissioning, maintenance and support for all of their supplied precision machinery and products. Marand boasts facilities in Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the UK. For further information, visit: marand.com.au

Milspec Manufacturing

For over 40 years Milspec has worked hard to become the premier designer and manufacturer of brushless alternators and portable power systems for defence forces across the world. Operating in a global market that demands precision, reliability, and low costs, Milspec has established themselves as the contract manufacturer of choice for defence and industry. Today, Milspec has grown into a successful privately owned Australian business, designing, integrating and manufacturing products and subsystems for multiple industries. For further information, visit: milspecmanufacturing.com

Precision Metal Group

Established in 2000 in Western Sydney, Precision Metal Group (PMG) specialises in mechanical engineering services and welding. As the business has evolved, PMG has developed its capabilities and achieved significant certifications, including AS/NZS ISO 3834, DIN 2303, and EN 15085. Working across sectors such as defence, infrastructure, construction, oil and gas, rail, mining and manufacturing, PMG is involved in high-profile projects like Rheinmetall’s Boxer Land 400 parts and seats for major rail supplier Probatec. For further information, visit: precisionmetalgroup.com

Photos

Left: Members of the All Industries Group team. Image courtesy of All Industries Group.

Right: Members of the JRS Manufacturing team. Image courtesy of JRS Manufacturing Group

Rockpress

Rockpress has been in business since 1972. In the 50 years since then, the company has grown to become one of Brisbane’s most highly-regarded steel fabrication suppliers. While Rockpress can supply ‘off the shelf’ materials in steel and other metals, their real expertise is in manufacturing and fabricating custom-made work, either for one-off projects or in quantities for high volume demand. Rockpress boasts more than 12,000m2 under roof floor space. All of these capabilities mean Rockpress is more than capable of handling work of any size or volume. For further information, visit: rockpress.com.au

RUD Australia

RUD Australia manufactures and supplies high-quality round steel link chain solutions and lifting technologies. They work with clients in the defence, infrastructure, mining, quarry, power station and engineering industries plus many more. Their collaborative approach makes RUD a partner of choice for organisations who value quality. All of their products are rigorously tested and assessed against strict quality-control measures. RUD complements these high quality products with dedicated technical support and training services. For further information, visit: rud.com.au

Shadbolt Group

Since 1981, Shadbolt Group has provided cost-effective engineering solutions throughout Australia. They are involved in pipework projects, tank manufacturing, structural works, machine building, site work and more. Shadbolt Group is committed to delivering a high level of expertise and delivering genuine value for money on every project. They provide fabrication services for mild steel, stainless steel, copper-nickel and aluminium to various industries including defence, mining, transport, construction, energy and more. For further information, visit: shadbolt.com.au

SP McLean

Based in Bayswater, Melbourne, SP McLean manufactures high-quality stainless steel and carbon steel filtration solutions. They service a variety of industries across Australia, including fuel and aviation filtration, pressure vessels, architectural and general metal fabrication, and rolling stock components. SP McLean also designs and manufactures bespoke components to support their filter equipment. Established in 1999 as a

small family business, the company now has an impressive team of design engineers, project managers, welderboilermakers and more. For further information, visit: spmclean.com.au

Thales Australia

Thales Australia is a trusted partner of the Australian Defence Force and is also present in commercial sectors ranging from air traffic management and ground transport systems to security systems and services. With 35 sites across the country, Thales Australia employs around 3,800 people directly and supports over 2,000 jobs along its Australian supply chain. Thales Australia has a history of patient investment to build advanced in-country capability across manufacturing, critical systems and services. For further information, visit: thalesgroup.com

TWK Steel

Steel fabrication specialists, TWK Steel services large scale civil and infrastructure projects across the country. TWK Steel specialises in architectural steel, specialised formwork systems, temporary and

structural steelwork, aluminium, Corten weathered steel, and civil, marine and rail construction. Combining innovation with exceptional quality products, TWK Steel has over a decade of experience and a capacity of over 10,000 tons per annum. TWK Steel is also a stockist of Nippon Steel sheet pile, manufactured in Japan. For further information, visit: twksteel.com.au

Uneek Bending Co

Based in Dandenong, Melbourne, Uneek provides state of the art engineering solutions in the design, manufacture and application of complex metal bending, rolling and welding throughout Australia. Through extensive research and development, Uneek’s team of engineers, designers and researchers have built impressive structures that push the limits of engineering to incredible lengths. Since 1964, Uneek has established themselves as Australia’s leading bending, rolling and welding engineering company. For further information, visit: uneek.com.au

Weld Australia’s Certification Services

Weld Australia is Australia’s premier welding certification body. We understand the value of ongoing professional and business development and are committed to upskilling the next generation of welders and safeguarding the future of local welding businesses.

Our comprehensive range of certification services are designed to help Australian welders, fabrication and manufacturing companies and the industrial sector at large achieve and maintain a competitive advantage. As the International Institute of Welding (IIW) Authorised National Body (ANB) and the Authorised Training Body (ATB), we are able to provide internationally recognised qualifications and certifications, to the following Standards:

• AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials

• EN 15085 Railway applications – Welding of railway vehicles

• DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes - Quality requirements to be met by production and maintenance companies for military products

Contact engineering@weldaustralia.com.au for details.

A RUD Australia team member hard at work.

WHAT WELD AUSTRALIA MEMBERS AND PARTNERS HAVE TO SAY

Weld Australia’s members and partners 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 and partners, eliciting their feedback on our activities, services and membership benefits.

Chris Ross (Asset Integrity Specialist, CS Energy)

“CS Energy has been corporate members of Weld Australia for some time now—already being a member when I started in my current role as Asset Integrity Specialist two years ago. The company was already a part of Weld Australia’s Power Generation Group, which is made up of power station operators and maintainers from around Australia. This includes sub-groups for different focuses such as Process Safety, Asset Integrity and PG9 (welding).”

“These Groups bring everyone together from similar areas of the industry and provide a really good learning and sharing platform for the industry, and are one of the main reasons for CS Energy’s membership. The networking opportunities are great and allow us to reach out for advice or connect with engineering services that may be presenting during the meetings. For example, the PG9 group specifically is great for developing, qualifying and sharing weld procedures amongst the members.”

“Weld Australia is also a great body to bounce questions off—they have a team of experts on-hand who are easily contactable and very helpful.”

“Personally, I am finding the career

development services that Weld Australia offer to be great and provide a clear pathway. There are a lot of courses available that I’m interested in, particularly in the welding coordination and inspection space.”

“Weld Australia has been really positive and accommodating throughout all the study I’ve done with them so far. Recently, I’ve completed the International Welding Inspector - Basic course through Weld Australia. I found it a really positive, flexible experience. I was able to do most of the study online from home, with just the practical and exam done on-site. All the course content was very relevant, and the lecturer Cornelis was very knowledgeable.”

“Australia is transitioning into the renewable energy era. With that comes a lot of new projects, which require a highly skilled workforce. I think Weld Australia is leading the way in terms of upskilling the next generation in the welding industry. Their programs with the welding simulators, and partnerships with the TAFEs and schools are playing a big role in securing the skills needed for Australia’s renewable energy transition. This will go a long way to having a quality workforce and keeping jobs in Australia.”

Mathew Billman (Quality Manager, UNEEK)

“Uneek joined Weld Australia because they are the peak industry body—they are the number one go to for welding.”

“We recently undertook a range of certifications with Weld Australia, including AS/NZS ISO 3834 Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials, EN 15085 Railway applications — Welding of railway vehicles and components, and DIN 2303 Welding and allied processes - Quality requirements to be met by production and maintenance companies for military products.”

“I had actually worked with Weld Australia in my previous role for certification to AS/NZS ISO 3834. The whole experience was trouble free. I had such a good experience with the certification process the first time, I enlisted the help of Weld Australia again.”

“The auditor, Victor Blain, was very professional, easy to work with, and had great knowledge on the subject. He was able to provide meaningful feedback on improvements in the business. The whole auditing process was a pleasure, right from the beginning. The entire team is very responsive and always happy to help.”

“Weld Australia also benefits the welding industry as a whole. Weld Australia, and their CEO Geoff Crittenden, are pushing the importance of Australian content and skills in welding. We are operating in an industry where the go to is always offshoring, from places like India and China. It is impossible to compete on price with product from these countries. What Geoff is doing— making it known how important local content is for major projects—is good for all Australian businesses.”

Weld Australia Membership Types

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

• Corporate Membership: Best suited to micro, small and medium businesses. Corporate members have access to a range of exclusive and valuable resources, opportunities and events.

• Premium Corporate Membership: Ideal for larger businesses, and businesses of any size wanting to take advantage of the premium offering to increase their exposure and visibility in the marketplace.

• Technology Networks Membership: Technology Networks share resources for engineering innovative solutions to enhance safety, manage risk, reduce cost, and optimise operating efficiency. Technology Network members are primes and Tier One contractors, major asset owners and state authorities.

• Free Student and Apprentice Membership: As part of our commitment to nurturing the next generation of skilled welders in Australia, Weld Australia is offers free membership to students and apprentices.

• 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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