Featured Resources
NCPWB Technical Bulletin: Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC)
What is Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) and why do contractors need to know anything about it? Well, it turns out that MIC can negatively affect your profits.
NCPWB Technical Bulletin: Purge to Protect Stainless-Steel Pipe Welds
On occasion we get questions from our members who would like to use backing flux in lieu of purging when making welds on stainless steel or other corrosion resistant materials. This bulletin describes an experiment conducted by NCPWB Consultant Walter Sperko where he had a colleague make stainless steel butt welds without any protection of the root of the weld, with inert gas backing, with backing flux and with flux-coated wire.
When reviewing a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) or a welder qualification record, the term “backing” frequently appears. In some cases, backing is required, while in others, it is optional. Backing can take various forms, including metal, non-fusing metal, nonmetallic materials, or even weld metal. But what exactly is “backing,” and why is it important in welding?
NCPWB Technical Bulletin: When To Use E6010 Welding Electrodes
The E6010 electrode is a wire encased in cellulose held together with salts and minerals. These electrodes penetrate better than low-hydrogen electrodes like E7018 when making root passes, making it easier to make a good root pass. However, E6010 introduces hydrogen into the weld creating a risk of cracking, and this article shows when its use should be limited.
The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA) created an above-the-line federal income tax deduction for “qualified overtime compensation.” This applies to overtime mandated by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) time-a-half requirements triggered by an employee working over 40 hours in a week. It is available for tax years 2025 through 2028. Below is a general outline of the deduction and its requirements and limitations.
The NCPWB Technical Conference returns April 26–28, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio, Texas, with a renewed focus on the real-world welding challenges mechanical contractors face—particularly those related to compliance with ASME Section IX. What began years ago as a primarily technical gathering has evolved into a broader, more dynamic conference that reflects the changing needs of today’s industry.
The MCAA Sponsorship Prospectus is here! Explore exclusive ways to connect with contractors, leaders, and decision-makers throughout the year. This prospectus gives you everything you need for planning the year ahead for MCAA exhibits, brand visibility, and supporting the future of our industry.
The MCAA Hub is your one-stop destination for everything MCAA has to offer. From upcoming conferences and association initiatives to industry best practices, the Hub connects you to the full spectrum of MCAA events and educational opportunities. Whether you’re looking to expand your skills, grow your network or simply discover all the resources available to you, the Hub makes it easy to explore, engage and stay informed.
Time is running out – the early bird registration rate for MCAA26 expires December 31. Register now to lock in the best pricing, as all registration categories will increase on January 1, 2026.
MCAA, SMACNA, and TAUC have come together to bring you a conference full of educational opportunities, led by industry professionals for industry professionals. This event fosters collaboration, facilitates the sharing of best practices and important resources, and drives collective progress toward the future of the industry. This action-packed conference offers up to 50 hours of education and networking, 30+ speakers, and up to 19 CEU hours.
Network with pipe welding contractors, United Association folks, and welding experts. Nationally or as a member of one of our NCPWB Chapters.
Everything from lists of Certified Welders to technical resources and bulletins. NCPWB is focused solely on Pipe Welding, so if you’re in the business, you need to belong.
Confused about compliance? Have questions about the NCPWB WPSs and BPSs? We’ll connect you to the right person for everything NCPWB.