Core Responsibilities
- Flux Preparation & Baking: Operate industrial flux ovens to bake/dry flux at specified temperatures (typically 250 to 350 degree) as per AWS and API 5L standards to remove moisture.
- Automated Recovery System Oversight: Manage the vacuum-based Flux Recovery System at the ID and OD welding stations, ensuring the continuous recycling of unfused flux back into the hopper.
- Contamination Control: Monitor the Flux-to-Slag ratio. Ensure that recycled flux is filtered for fines (dust), slag, and metallic particles that could cause weld defects.
- Moisture Management: Maintain strict Out-of-Oven time logs. Ensure heated flux is delivered to the welding station via heated hoses or hoppers to prevent moisture pick-up (essential for Sour Service pipes).
- System Maintenance: Perform cleaning of flux filters, magnetic separators, and vacuum hoses to prevent blockages and maintain system efficiency.
- Inventory Tracking: Manage flux batch/heat numbers for 100% traceability. Ensure that different flux types (e.g., for X70 vs. X80 grades) are never cross-contaminated.
Technical Skill Set
- Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating automated flux delivery systems.
- Thermal Monitoring: Skilled in using digital temperature controllers and moisture analyzers to verify flux condition.
- Mechanical Aptitude: Basic troubleshooting of pneumatic vacuum systems, air compressors, and magnetic separators.
- Documentation: Ability to maintain Flux Baking Logs required for the Final Data Book and client audits by Third-Party Inspectors (TPI).
Key Qualifications
- Education: ITI (Fitter/Mechanical) or equivalent vocational training.
- Experience: 3-7 years of experience in an LSAW, HSAW, or heavy SAW fabrication environment.
- Industry Background: Candidates from similar industries are preferred for their familiarity with Saudi Aramco quality requirements.
Preferred Attributes
- Deep understanding of storage and handling of Submerged Arc Welding consumables.
- Awareness that dirty or moist flux is the cause of porosity and hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC).
- Knowledge of respiratory safety (dust management) and high-temperature PPE protocols.
Employer-Specific Context
- Maximum focus on moisture-control records and batch-traceability
- Use of automated PLC-controlled flux systems with digital sensors that alert operators to temperature drops.
- High-efficiency management of flux recycling to reduce material waste while maintaining high-speed production.
