CRAW APPROVED TESTING CENTERS

The facility applying for to become an ATC must demonstrate its capacity to meet the following requirements:

Facilities

The ATC will have available for testing purposes at least one operating arc welding robot that can be programmed for operation in three axes. The ATC will demonstrate that it has the equipment to perform mechanical and macroetch testing of completed weld coupons. The ATC will have one room that is conducive to a proper environment (adequate lighting, space, quiet, etc.) for candidates taking a written examination. The ATC will demonstrate that it has the capability of storing confidential materials in a place of limited access (locked cabinet or room).

Personnel

It is the responsibility of the ATC to provide a CRAW-T to act as the written examination and performance test supervisor. The ATC must employ or have access to a Certified Robotic Arc Welding –Technician (CRAW-T).

This individual cannot conduct any training or preparatory activities for those candidates who they will be testing for AWS certification.

Procedures

The ATC will demonstrate that it has procedures in place to assure:

1. Traceability of all test materials (filler and base metals) used in the robotic performance testing
2. Ability to monitor candidate registrations and appointments to take certification testing
3. Returned testing information to AWS in a timely manner

ATC Initial Onsite Audit Application Package

CRAW Procedure for Authorizing AWS Approved Testing Centers

CRAW Performance Test Information Booklet

QC19-2002, Specification for AWS Certification of Robotic Arc Welding Personnel

D16.4-2005, Specification for the Qualification of Robotic Arc Welding Personnel

Procedure for Authorizing AWS Approved Testing Centers

CRAW Candidate Performance Test Information Booklet

Step 1: Submitting your application package

The following documents must be submitted to AWS in order to apply to become an Approved Testing Center (ATC):

• ATC Initial on-Site Audit Application
• Schematic of Examination Work Cell
• Organizational Chart
• Procedures on Material Traceability/Security/Privacy/Registration/Fees

Note: There are currently no up-front fees for the ATC Program due at the time of application. View current program fees that are due following the ATC audit, under PRICING.

Email your documents to accreditation@aws.org

Or mail to:

American Welding Society
Attn: Certification Department
8669 NW 36 St, #130
Miami, FL 33166-6672

Step 2: Conducting Your Onsite Audit

Following a satisfactory review of the facility’s application and supporting documents, AWS will schedule an onsite audit of your facility by a third party auditor. ATC applicants are responsible for auditor’s fees and travel expenses, including airfare, transportation, lodging and meals. Refer to ATC Initial Onsite Audit Application for applicable fees.

1. Test Supervisors are required to be certified as an AWS Certified Robotic Arc Welding Technician (CRAW-T) before the audit can be scheduled. This will then allow the test supervisor to administer the testing for this program, once the facility is approved.
2. When your audit is completed, the auditor will determine if your facility should be recommended for an Approved Testing Center. Results of your audit will be presented to the AWS Certification Committee for final approval.

Step 3: Receiving Your Approved Certificate

If your facility is approved to become an ATC, your facility will be issued a Certificate of Approval. Once approved, your facility can begin testing individuals for CRAW certification.

Currently, there is no requirement for renewal of facilities that have been approved by AWS as a CRAW Approved Testing Center (ATC).

There are currently no up-front application fees for the ATC program; however, ATC applicants are responsible for auditor’s fees and travel expenses including airfare, transportation, lodging, and meals. Auditor’s fees are:

Domestic: $300 for audit (one day) and $150 per travel day (up to two days)

International: $400 for audit (one day) and $200 per travel day (up to three days)

No disclaimers apply to the CRAW Approved Testing Center (ATC) program.