IIW White Paper

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Scope and objectives

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This white paper (WhiP) is a common vision document agreed and prepared by the experts of the International Institute of Welding (IIW). It is not intended to provide a comprehensive coverage, but it is representative, precise and inspiring.

W hiP identifies the current and future challenges and needs for welding and joining technologies, base and filler materials, weld design and structural assessment as well as future demands and requirements of resources. Here, the term joining is used for the manufacture of all material-locking joints between materials, such as welding, soldering and brazing, adhesive bonding and thermal coating, as well as for thermal cutting and mechanical joining apart from joining with screws. At the same time, it identifies the potential methods, innovations and solutions for complex problems of joining sciences and industrial applications while taking into account regional and national differences in strategic agendas. It is widely recognised that there exist different priorities for developing and developed nations and nations with economies in transition with respect to the value and benefit of welding and joining. This document takes into account the differences of priorities in basic and applied research and development (R&D), commercial enterprise, occupational health and safety (OHS), training, education, qualification, certification and a sustainable environment. WhiP aims: To recommend the implementation of strategies to find solutions to meet identified challenges of different industrial sectors and nations for the next 10 years. Topromote the implementationof innovations and solutions on a national, regional and international basis through greater collaboration, shared knowledge and partnerships. To contribute to the improvement of the global quality of life through use and innovation in welding and joining technologies. It should be noted that significant changes, including the use of new technologies, are underway in the practices of material development, welded structures design, welding/joining processes, structural erection, inspection, repair and inspection and testing of welds world-wide. While these developments are satisfying some of the industry’s needs, others remain as challenges still to be tackled. “

This document aims to identify remaining and newly emerging needs and challenges as well as establish strategies to develop solutions.

It is true that new materials have significantly contributed to improving the standards of living of mankind as a whole and this would continue to be so in the future. Joining these materials would definitely be

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Through Optimum Use and Innovation of Welding and Joining Technologies

Improving Global Quality of Life