Core Responsibilities
- Specimen Preparation: Operate machine tools (Surface grinders, Polishing Machine, Gas Cutting) to extract and prepare test samples from the pipe body and weld seam according to ASTM and API 5L dimensions.
- Mechanical Testing: Execute standardized tests including Tensile Testing (Yield, UTS, Elongation), Charpy V-Notch Impact Testing (at temperatures down to -50∘C using liquid nitrogen), and Guided Bend Tests.
- Hardness Surveys: Perform Vickers or Rockwell hardness testing across the Weld, HAZ (Heat Affected Zone), and Base Metal to ensure compliance with NACE (Sour Service) limits.
- Chemical Analysis: Prepare and spark samples using Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES) to verify chemical composition (C, Mn, S, P, Cr, Ni, etc.)
- Metallographic Support: Prepare samples for micro-examination by cutting, mounting (hot/cold), and polishing/etching for grain size and inclusion rating analysis.
- Corrosion Test Support: Assist in the preparation of samples for HIC (Hydrogen Induced Cracking) and SSCC tests, ensuring strict adherence to NACE protocols.
- Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine cleaning, lubrication, and basic calibration of lab equipment (UTMs, Impact Testers, and Spectrometers).
Technical Skill Set
- Testing Software: Experience with lab data acquisition software (e.g., ZwickRoell, Instron, or Thermo Scientific LIMS).
- Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with API 5L, ASTM (Impact), ASTM E415 (Spectrometry), and Saudi Aramco.
- Lab Safety: Mastery of chemical handling (acids for etching), cryogenic safety (liquid nitrogen), and machine guarding.
Key Qualifications
- Education: ITI (Machinist/Turner) or a Diploma in Mechanical, Metallurgical, or Chemical Engineering.
- Experience: 3–8 years of hands-on experience in a metallurgical laboratory, preferably within a pipe mill (LSAW/HSAW/Seamless) or a large steel plant.
- Industry Background: Candidates from similar industries are highly preferred due to their experience with rigorous Third-Party Inspections (TPI).
Preferred Attributes (Global Standards)
- Understanding the documentation and precision required to maintain international lab accreditation.
- Absolute integrity in recording test values; understanding that the lab is the final word on pipe safety.
- For Middle East roles, familiarity with SAMSS-011 and 9COM laboratory requirements is essential.
Employer-Specific Context
- Focus on high-frequency Drop Weight Tear Testing (DWTT) and low-temperature impact testing for fracture toughness.
- Integration with automated data logging where test results are digitally linked to the pipe's unique ID for life-cycle traceability.
- High-speed specimen preparation to support the continuous output of high-tonnage production lines.
