For procedure qualification test coupons, which statement is NOT a requirement?

• A. They must reproduce the intended joint and materials.
• B. They must be larger than production joints.
• C. They must meet acceptance criteria.
• D. They must be representative of actual welding conditions.

Answer: (B)

Procedure qualification test coupons are used to verify that a welding procedure will produce sound welds under the actual joint and material conditions. They must reproduce the intended joint and materials, be welded under the actual welding conditions, and the welds must meet the defined acceptance criteria. It is not a requirement that the coupons be larger than production joints; the important point is that the coupons accurately reflect the production geometry, material, and process so the results validate the procedure, not that they are bigger than what will be welded in production.