The AWS WI-I:2020 is a 600+ page training manual designed specifically for the CWI Part A (Fundamentals) and Part B (Practical) examinations. Unlike general welding textbooks, the WI-I focuses exclusively on inspection criteria, including:
The 2020 edition introduced new sections on advanced high-strength steels, laser welding inspection, and digital record-keeping – topics not covered in depth in earlier PDFs floating online.
Last updated: October 2025. This article is not affiliated with the American Welding Society. Always refer to the official AWS website for the most current examination materials.
Mastering Your CWI Prep: A Guide to the 2020 Welding Inspection Technology (WIT) Manual If you’re pursuing your Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential, the AWS WIT-T:2020 Welding Inspection Technology
is your foundational roadmap. This 6th edition is specifically designed to provide both novice and experienced inspectors with the critical background needed for the CWI Part A exam. Why the 2020 Edition Matters The 2020 manual serves as the primary study resource for Part A: Fundamentals
, a closed-book, 150-question exam. It moves beyond just "looking at welds" to cover the deep technical knowledge required by standards. Key Topics Included: Safety Practices
: Vital procedures for welding inspectors to ensure job site safety. Inspector Qualities & Ethics i--- Welding Inspection Technology 2020 Pdf
: The professional requirements and communication skills necessary for the role. Welding Metallurgy
: Fundamentals of how metals react during the heating and cooling of the weld process. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
: Procedures for Ultrasonic (UT), Radiographic (RT), Magnetic Particle, and Liquid Penetrant testing. WPS & PQR Review
: Understanding Welding Procedure Specifications and Procedure Qualification Records. Study Tips for Success Read Multiple Times : Successful CWI candidates recommend reading the WIT-T manual
at least three times—taking notes, creating flashcards, and answering every question in the companion workbook. Use the Workbook AWS WIT-W:2020 Workbook
is an essential companion for practical exercises and scenario-based learning. Focus on Symbols : A significant portion of Part A involves The AWS WI-I:2020 is a 600+ page training
welding symbols. Ensure you can distinguish between "weld symbols" and "welding symbols".
Overall: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) – Essential for CWI candidates but expensive.
Pros:
Cons:
Verdict: Buy the official PDF only from AWS.org or an authorized reseller. Avoid free downloads – they often contain missing pages, outdated info (pre-2017 codes), or malware.
No. The WI-I references B5.1 (CWI qualification standard) but does not reprint it. You will need to purchase B5.1 separately for the exam. The 2020 edition introduced new sections on advanced
Scammers know that welders and inspectors are practical, cost-conscious professionals. They exploit the high price of new AWS materials. However, using an outdated PDF from 2008 or 2015 can cause real-world failures:
Real case: A CWI candidate in Texas studied from a 2011 PDF. On the Part A exam, he missed every question related to stud welding inspection – because that chapter was completely rewritten in 2020. He failed by 4 points.
Yes. WI-I (Welding Inspection Technology) is the textbook. WI-2 (Welding Inspection Technology Workbook) is the accompanying practice question booklet. Many people searching for “I--- Welding Inspection Technology 2020 PDF” actually want the workbook – but that is a separate document.
If budget is the main reason you are searching for a free PDF, consider these low-cost or free alternatives:
While a PDF is portable, the physical WI-I has advantages for serious inspectors:
If you must have a PDF for mobile study, buy the official one. It is DRM-free (usually) and includes: