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CPM - Certified Plant Mechanic Welding and Fabrication Techniques Flashcards

6 cards from real CPM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What does the acronym MIG stand for in the MIG welding process?

    Answer: Metal Inert Gas

    MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, also called GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), uses a continuously fed wire electrode shielded by an inert or semi-inert gas.

  2. What shielding gas mixture is most commonly used when MIG welding mild steel in a plant maintenance setting?

    Answer: 75% argon / 25% CO2 (C25)

    C25 (75% Ar / 25% CO2) provides a stable arc, good penetration, and reduced spatter, making it the most common choice for mild steel MIG welding.

  3. Which welding process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and is best suited for precision welds on stainless steel and aluminum?

    Answer: GTAW (TIG)

    GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), commonly called TIG, uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and filler rod added separately, allowing precise, high-quality welds.

  4. In SMAW (Stick) welding, what is the primary function of the flux coating on the electrode?

    Answer: Protect the weld pool from atmospheric contamination

    The flux coating melts and forms a slag that shields the molten weld pool from oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere, preventing porosity and oxidation.

  5. What is the purpose of preheating base metal before welding in plant maintenance applications?

    Answer: Reduce the risk of hydrogen cracking in high-carbon or thick materials

    Preheating slows the cooling rate after welding, reducing thermal shock and the formation of hard, brittle microstructures that can crack in high-carbon or alloy steels.

  6. What does PWHT stand for and when is it typically required in plant fabrication?

    Answer: Post Weld Heat Treatment; used to relieve residual stresses and improve toughness after welding

    PWHT (Post Weld Heat Treatment) involves controlled heating and cooling of a completed weld to relieve residual stresses, temper hard zones, and meet code requirements.