High-Pressure Welding (New version)

Program Objectives

The High-Pressure Welding program prepares students to practise the trade of high-pressure welder.

High-pressure welders work in sectors of activity such as the manufacture of metal products, machines and paper, civil engineering and building construction. They work in a range of production or metal shops and on construction sites.

High-pressure welders are capable of performing specialized welding operations on pipes designed to hold pressurized fluids and gases. More specifically, they prepare, assemble, weld and repair pipes and pipe components such as supports and anchors. They also connect pipe systems to pressure vessels.

High-pressure welders are proficient in the main welding processes used in the trade and work on different metals (in particular mild and stainless steel) and in all welding positions used in piping. They require the utmost dexterity to be able to produce welds in compliance with the different laws and standards governing the welding of pipes and pressure vessels. They must regularly pass practical exams to obtain certificates of competency, including those issued by Emploi-Québec. Stress management is also an asset.

To ensure the conformity of their work, high-pressure welders must be able to correctly interpret various types of documents, in particular piping diagrams and welding procedures.

High-pressure welders regularly use lifting equipment and accessories to move heavy workpieces. They must also use access equipment to get to certain work sites. They work indoors or outdoors, often in hot or cold environments, and must deal with dust, gases and high noise levels, and work at heights or work in confined spaces. They must pay special attention to mandatory health and safety rules in all their activities.

Although they mainly work alone and independently, they occasionally work with other high-pressure welders, labourers, pipe fitters and boilermakers. Forepersons and site managers oversee their activities.