Welding consumables used in hull structures must carry classification society approval — without it, an entire welding procedure can be rejected at survey. Buyers approaching marine aluminum wire for the first time usually get stuck on the same questions: what exactly are ABS, DNV and LR approvals, and which documents should you ask your supplier for? This guide from Mastership (sole authorized distributor of Canadian Indalco aluminum welding consumables in Asia) answers both.
What is classification society approval?
A classification society is an independent third party that verifies ship safety. Welding consumables used in hull structures must hold the society’s type approval, which covers the consumable’s chemical composition, mechanical properties and the manufacturer’s quality system. Welds made with unapproved consumables will not pass survey.
The five major societies at a glance
| Approval | Society | Where it is typically required |
|---|---|---|
| ABS | American Bureau of Shipping | US-flag owners, offshore platforms |
| DNV | Det Norske Veritas | European merchant ships, offshore wind |
| LR | Lloyd’s Register | International merchant shipping, yachts |
| BV | Bureau Veritas | European vessels, workboats |
| CCS | China Classification Society | Chinese-flag vessels, cross-strait routes |
The flag the vessel will fly and the owner it is being built for determine which approval your consumable needs. A multi-approved wire (one product approved by ABS, DNV, LR and more at the same time) is the easiest option for a yard — you avoid re-qualifying welding procedures (WPS) every time a different project demands a different society.
Which filler for marine aluminum?
Aluminum hulls most commonly use 5083 plate, whose matching filler is ER5183 (higher magnesium plus manganese, the highest strength and the mainstay of class approvals). General 5xxx structures and outfitting parts can use ER5356. For a full comparison see our aluminum welding wire selection guide.
Which documents should you request from your supplier?
- Classification society type approval certificate — check it is still valid and that it covers the grade and wire diameter you are buying.
- Original manufacturer datasheet.
- Mill test certificate (MTC) — the batch number must match the goods actually delivered.
- WPS / PQR support — can the supplier provide technical support if you need to qualify a welding procedure?
Where to buy fully certified aluminum consumables
Mastership is the sole authorized distributor of Canadian Indalco aluminum welding consumables in Asia. Our consumables are approved by ABS, DNV, LR, BV, CWB, AWS and CCS and manufactured under ISO 9001; certificates and mill test certificates are available with shipment, and MIG spools and TIG rods are in stock. Contact us with your classification society requirement and base metal specification — we will recommend a grade and provide samples. See also our certifications overview.
Mastership | Aluminum Welding Consumables