President’s Report 2024
1. Introduction
It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to each of you to the SWS 46th Annual General Meeting today.
The year 2023/2024 has been truly remarkable for SWS, presenting us with both challenges and opportunities. Thanks to the unwavering support of our members, we have achieved several significant milestones. We proudly hosted the esteemed 76th IIW Annual Assembly in Singapore in July 2023, marking a momentous achievement for our society. Additionally, after a hiatus of six years, we successfully resumed the Singapore National Welding Competition. Lastly, but certainly not least, SWS completed its inaugural Operation & Technology Roadmap (OTR) in the first quarter of 2024, made possible through a collaborative effort with the National Trade Union Congress (NTUC).
On behalf of the council, I am delighted to present a report on the society’s progress and accomplishments over the past year. Below is a summary of the activities organized by various committees during the 2023/2024 term of office for your review and consideration.
2. SWS Council Members of Year 2023/2024
Name | Position |
Dr Sun Zheng
|
President
Chairman, IIW 2023 Organizing Committee |
Prof Pang Hock Lye
|
Vice President
Chairman, Welding Standardization Committee |
Mr Hooi Yu Koh | Vice President
Assistant Honorary Treasurer |
Mr Lim Zhi Yang | Honorary Secretary
|
Mr Simon Wong Man Ming
|
Honorary Treasurer
|
Mr Sze Thiam Siong
|
Immediate Past President
Chairman, International Affairs Committee Chairman, Education & Training Committee |
Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan
|
Past President
Chairman, Certification & Common Welder Qualification Scheme (CWQS) Committee |
Mr Ong Beng Tiong | Chairman, Publications Committee
|
Dr Zhou Wei | Chairman, Welding Technology Committee
|
Mr Yusoof Aynuddin | Chairman, Technical Talks Committee
|
Mr Suggu Ravi Chandra Reddy | Chairman, Membership Committee
|
Mr Khoo Kok Leong | Vice Chairman, Certification & Common Welder Qualification Scheme (CWQS) Committee |
Mr William Chong Jun Hua | Vice Chairman, Education & Training Committee
|
Mr Subbiah Krishnan | Vice Chairman, Technical Talks Committee
|
Mr Boon Khong Lee | Vice Chairman, Membership committee |
SWS Secretariat: Ms Einette Law
3. Finance
Honorary Treasurer: Mr Simon Wong
Assistant Honorary Treasurer: Mr Hooi Yu Koh
The total income for Year 2023 is S$1,638,311 versus S$291,887 for Year 2022. The significant increase of income is mainly attributed to the revenue from the one-off IIW2023 event held in July 2023 in the form of event registration and sponsorship. Apart from IIW2023, the income for SWS was mainly derived from membership fees, course fees and fixed deposit interest.
The total expenditure for Year 2023 is S$1,225,376 versus S$130,052 for Year 2022. The significant increase of expenditure was also due to IIW2023 conference and assembly expenses. Apart from the IIW2023, the other expenses are consistence with year 2022 at approximately $130,000. This is reflective of our efforts to control of SWS running cost in spite of the high inflation rate.
The surplus before tax for Year 2023 is S$412,935 versus S$161,835 for Year 2022. Again, the additional increase of surplus was mainly contributed by our IIW2023 event.
Our cash balance for Year 2023 is S$1,798,799 which is $238,213 more compared with S$1,560,586 for Year 2022. The healthy cash position maintained over the past few years was the result of our efforts to maintain SWS financial status in a sound and sustainable manner.
As mentioned in the President’s Report, the Society had partnered NTUC Training and Transformation team in charting our Operation Technology Roadmap (OTR) for the next five years. With the implementation of OTR, we anticipate incurring additional costs. Nevertheless, we are committed to control our finances effectively and responsibly for the benefit of the Society.
4. Education & Training Committee
Chairman: Mr Sze Thiam Siong
Vice Chairman: Mr William Chong Jun Hua
The Singapore welding market is expected to see steady growth over the next one to three years driven by the construction, marine & offshore, oil & gas and manufacturing. Infrastructure projects, such as commercial complexes, underground deep excavation works, industrial facilities and airport re-development require extensive welding services. Repair and maintenance of existing structures also contribute to the demand for welding services. Companies are adopting advanced welding technologies to improve productivity and reduce human labour. Automation and robotics have enhanced the efficiency and quality of welding processes.
The Education and Training Committee is dedicated to advancing the knowledge, skills, and competencies of welding professionals through various educational initiatives and training programs. Welding education and training play a critical role in the field of welding. It is necessary to ensure safety and efficiency, provide technical skills and knowledge, work with other industries, provide networking opportunities and career advancement in the welding industry. With covid-19 restriction lifted, all the courses were conducted physically, and participants were happy to interact among themselves and share their experiences and knowledges. The benefits of attending the SWS training courses are:
- Improve their welding knowledge
- Expand their job scope
- Enhance their skills
- Make them more qualified through certifications
- Keep abreast of latest trends and developments
- Provide opportunity for personal growth
SWS has been approved by the International Institute of Welding (IIW) as an Authorised Nominated Body (ANB) to conduct IIW Welding Inspection Personnel (IWIP) qualification examinations in Singapore for Basic, Standard and Comprehensive levels. Participants (Singaporeans /Permanent Residents) who have attended the Welding Inspection Personnel course for Basic Level (IWI-Basic) will be eligible for 50% training grant from Employment and Employability Institute (e2i). This grant is applicable to both modules of Basic Level, i.e. Welding Technology and Welding Inspection. E2i does not cover the IIW examination fee. On successful completion of course and examination, candidates will be issued with a IIW Diploma by SWS as an Authorised Nominated Body (ANB).
The following are some of the training courses and examinations organised by SWS on a regular basis.
- International Institute of Welding (IIW) Welding Inspection Personnel; Basic, Standard & Comprehensive
- API 653 – Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector
- API 510 – Pressure Vessel Inspector
- API 570 – Piping Inspector
- API 571 – Corrosion and Materials
- API 577 – Welding Inspection & Metallurgy
- API 580 – Risk Based Inspection
- Visual Inspection
- American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Inspector
- Safety in Welding & Cutting Processes
- Structural Welding Design
- Metal Joining & Cutting Processes
- Apply Metallurgy Principles
Singapore Welding Society (SWS) has collaborated with the American Welding Society (AWS) to offer a series of online welding and related courses to its members. The AWS courses incorporate animated graphics, audio narration, video footage, and interactive elements that make complex topics both engaging and easy to understand. The following are some of the courses available from AWS:
- Metallurgy 1 – Fundamental concepts
- Metallurgy 2 – Properties that affect weldability
- Industrial metallurgy courses
- Destructive testing
- Non-destructive testing – The science of non-destructive testing
- Non-destructive testing – NDT classroom courses
- Welding fundamental 1 – The basic principles of welding
- Welding fundamental 2 – A comprehensive overview of common welding techniques
- Welding fundamental 3 – A comprehensive of brazing and soldering
- Understanding welding symbols
- Welding Procedure Specification (WPS)/ Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
In addition to the above courses, the Society is also able to organise in-house courses for corporate members or clients. The courses can be tailored to the needs of individual organisation.
As of 31st March 2024, the Society has conducted a total of 837 certification examinations under the British Institute for Non-destructive Testing (BINDT) Personnel Certification for NDT (PCN) scheme in the multi-sector, weld, and aerospace sectors for the various NDT methods.
In conclusion, the Education and Training Committee remains committed to advancing excellence in welding education and training, empowering professionals to excel in their careers and contribute to the growth and innovation of the welding industry. We look forward to continuing our efforts to support the lifelong learning journey of our members.
5. International Affairs Committee
Chairman: Mr Sze Thiam Siong
The International Affairs Committee has been active since the lifting of travel restrictions as more events and meetings were organised during the past one year. Some of the objectives of this committee include:
- Foster closer cooperation/collaboration among the regional societies
- Adopt common welding standards/ practices
- Share welding knowledge and information
- Build a stronger regional grouping
- Develop new welding technologies
- Promote welding forum, seminars and events
- Adopt welding personnel certification
- Support regional and international activities
- Provide opportunities for interaction among members
- Encourage new membership
During the year 2023, the committee has participated in the following regional/international events.
- IAB-International Authorisation Board Group A-Education, Training and Qualification Meeting conducted online, 10, 11 & 12 January 2023 and attended by Mr Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan, Dr Sun Zheng, Dr Zhou Wei and Mr Sze Thiam Siong
- 9th Asian welding Federation (AWF) Steering Committee Meeting, Singapore, 11 March 2023 and attended by Mr Sze Thiam Siong and Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan
- 15th Asian Welding Technology and Its Application Forum entitled “2023 International Seminar on Intelligent Welding & Additive Manufacturing and Cooperation”, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 14 May 2023 and attended by Mr Sze Thiam Siong and Mr Simon Wong Man Ming
- 38th AWF Governing Council Meeting, Taskforce and Committee Meetings, Xiamen, Fujian, China, 12 to 14 May 2023 and attended by Mr Sze Thiam Siong and Mr Simon Wong Man Ming
- 76th IIW Annual Assembly and International Conference on Welding & Joining, Marina Bay Sand, Singapore, 16 to 21 July 2023 and attended by Dr Sun Zheng, Dr Zhou Wei, Mr Simon Wong Man Ming, Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan, Mr Hooi Yu Koh, Mr Lim Zhi Yang, Prof John Phang, Mr Suggu Ravi Chandra Reddy , Mr Khoo Kok Leong, Mr William Chong Jun Hua, Mr Yusoof Aynuddin, Mr Subbiah Krishnan, Mr Mr Ong Beng Tiong and Mr Sze Thiam Siong
- IAB-International Authorisation Board Group A-Education, Training and Qualification Meeting, Singapore, 17 to 19 July 2023 and attended by Dr Sun Zheng, Dr Zhou Wei, Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan, Mr Sze Thiam Siong and Mr Simon Wong Man Ming.
- 10th Asian welding Federation (AWF) Steering Committee Meeting, Singapore, 30 September 2023 and attended by Mr Sze Thiam Siong and Mr Perianan Radhakrishnan
- 16th Asian Welding Technology & Application Forum and inauguration of newly constructed advance welding training centre, Manila, Philippines, 19 October 2023 and attended by Mr Simon Wong Man Ming.
- 39th AWF Governing Council Meeting, Taskforce and Committee Meetings, Manila, Philippines, 20 & 21 October 2023, and attended by Mr Sze Thiam Siong, Mr P Radhakrishnan and Mr Simon Wong Man Ming.
- 17th Asian Welding Technology and Its Application Forum entitled “2023 international Seminar on Intelligent Welding & Additive Manufacturing and Its Application”, Inner Mongolia Technical College of Mechanics & Electrics via Zoom, 23 November 2023.
6. Publication Committee
Chairman: Mr Ong Beng Tiong
We are thrilled to announce our ongoing commitment to fostering a dynamic learning and sharing platform through Weldpoint. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all our contributors for enriching our publication with diverse articles, technical insights, and welding news.
To our esteemed corporate members, we invite you to continue sharing your expertise by contributing articles on welding and joining technologies, engineering solutions, innovations, and pertinent industry updates. Your contributions not only benefit our readers but also serve as a valuable avenue to showcase your expertise and connect with potential customers through advertising opportunities within our newsletter.
We are dedicated to delivering a newsletter that adds value and provides informative content to our readership. We extend our gratitude to our loyal readers for their continued support. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable to us as we strive for continuous improvement.
As we look ahead, we are excited to bring you quarterly newsletters filled with quality material, highlighting the latest industry trends and insights into welding developments worldwide.
Thank you for being part of the Weldpoint community, and we look forward to your ongoing support and engagement.
7. Welding Technology Committee
Chairman: Prof Zhou Wei
After the AGM on 28 May 2022, the SWS Council decided to divide the Welding Technology and Standardization Committee into two committees: Welding Technology Committee and Welding Standardization Committee. Since then, all issues related to standardization have been dealt with the Welding Standardization Committee, and the Welding Technology Committee focuses on promoting new welding technology.
With strong support of many SWS Council members, a few interesting technical articles on various aspects of welding technology have been published in the recent issues of Weldpoint. In addition, the following keynote presentations on welding technology have been delivered by Dr Zhou Wei on behalf of SWS:
- Keynote on “Mechanisms of Rapid Improvement of Mechanical Properties of Cold Sprayed Coatings by Induction Heating”, TMS2024 – 153rd Annual Meeting & Exhibition (TMS stands for The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society, the event was attended by more than 4000 participants), Orlando, FL, USA, 3-7 Mar 2024.
- Keynote on “Multi-material Additive Manufacturing by Cold Spray Technology”, WSE2023 – 9th International Conference on Welding Science and Engineering, Harbin, China, 24-27 Jul 2023.
- The 51st Metallurgical Lecture on “Microscopic Approach to Fracture in Welded and 3D Printed Steel Structures”, University of Science and Technology Beijing, China, 11 May 2023.
Dr Zhou Wei and Prof John Pang co-chaired an international conference in Marina Bay Sands on 20 and 21 Jul 2023 as part of the 76th IIW Annual Assembly & International Conference on Welding and Joining. The conference focused on “Advances in Welding, Joining, and Additive Manufacturing” and served well as a major forum for the exchange of knowledge and provided opportunities to network and meet leading experts in the field.
In the next few years, the Welding Technology Committee intends to promote applications of new welding technologies, including laser welding technology and wire-arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) technology.
8. Welding Standardization Committee
Chairman: Prof John Pang
The Welding Standardization Committee has continued its work, with support of Enterprise Singapore and SMF, to develop international standards on welding and allied processes.
With the adoption of SS ISO 3834 and SS ISO 9606 standards, SWS Welding Standardization Committee is promoting the use of the following Standards for their business operations.
SS ISO 3834: Part 1 to 5
- SS ISO 3834-1:2022 (Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials – Part 1: Criteria for the selection of the appropriate level of quality requirements)
- SS ISO 3834-2:2021 (Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials Part 2: Comprehensive quality requirements)
- SS ISO 3834-3:2021 (Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials Part 3: Standard quality requirements)
- SS ISO 3834-4:2021 (Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials Part 4: Elementary quality requirements)
- SS ISO 3834-5:2022 (Quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials Part 5: Documents with which it is necessary to conform to claim conformity to the quality requirements of ISO 3834-2, ISO 3834-3 or ISO 3834-4).
SS ISO 9606: Part 1 to 5
- SS ISO 9606-1:2021 (Qualification testing of welders Fusion welding Part 1: Steels)
- SS ISO 9606-2:2021 (Qualification test of welders – Fusion welding – Part 2: Aluminium and aluminium alloys)
- SS ISO 9606-3:2021 (Approval testing of welders – Fusion welding – Part 3: Copper and copper alloys)
- SS ISO 9606-4:2021 (Approval testing of welders – Fusion welding – Part 4: Nickel and nickel alloys)
- SS ISO 9606-5:2021 (Approval testing of welders – Fusion welding – Part 5: Titanium and titanium alloys, zirconium and zirconium alloys)
9. Technical Talks Committee
Chairman: Mr Yusoof Aynuddin
Vice Chairman: Mr Subbiah Krishnan
In 2023, SWS was proud to host a series of enriching technical talks, bringing together experts and enthusiasts from across the industry. Here’s a look back at the key events:
Innovative Robotic Solutions for Water Infrastructure. In March, SWS members who attended were introduced to cutting-edge robotic solutions for water line inspection and repair, a collaborative effort by Craig Senych from Eddyfi Technologies and Mueller Water Systems. This innovative robotic system can enter water distribution systems through fire hydrants and performing maintenance tasks under pressure, such as localizing, cleaning, and repairing leaks. This event not only highlighted the practical integration of robotics in urban infrastructure maintenance but also emphasized the potential for significant efficiency improvements and cost reductions in water system management.
Welding Low Alloy Steels: Techniques and Challenges. On June 9, Dr. Krishnan Sivaraman, in collaboration with the Nickel Institute, led an insightful webinar focusing on the practical aspects of welding low alloy steels, specifically Cr-Mo steels. The discussion covered a comprehensive range of topics, including material procurement, selection of welding processes and consumables, as well as detailed welding procedures and post-weld heat treatments. These insights are crucial for industries such as petrochemicals and refineries, where precision in welding significantly impacts the quality and durability of the infrastructure.
Advancements in Ultrasonic Testing and Corrosion Detection. Later in June, an on-site event presented by Evident introduced the Next-Generation HydroFORM™ Scanner, which incorporates design improvements for enhanced corrosion mapping and thickness gaging. The seminar detailed the scanner’s integrated X and Y-axis encoders, ergonomic design, and extended gasket lifespan, all contributing to increased accuracy and repeatability in industrial safety inspections. Additional discussions focused on Evident’s customized reporting software, which streamlines the reporting process and integrates seamlessly with industrial data management systems.
Digital Radiographic Testing: Setting New Industry Standards. In July, Denis Kiesel of Waygate Technologies led a comprehensive session on the evolution and differentiation of digital detectors in non-destructive testing, presented during an on-site event organized with the Non-Destructive Testing Society (Singapore). The presentation detailed the USM100 UT, a new conventional device known for its unmatched portability and smart capabilities. This device represents a leap forward in setting industry standards, enabling real-time insights and reducing inefficiencies in non-destructive testing environments.
Challenges of Welding Dissimilar Metals. In August, Dr. Krishnan Sivaraman returned to lead a webinar focused on the challenges of welding dissimilar metals, again in collaboration with the Nickel Institute. The session delved into the evaluation of filler materials and base metals before welding, addressing the main challenges: differing thermal expansion coefficients, disparate metallurgy, and the risk of galvanic corrosion. Practical solutions and methodologies for achieving satisfactory welds were discussed, along with the broader classification of welding processes suitable for common dissimilar material combinations.
Enhancing Stainless Steel Welding Techniques. In November, Dr. Graham Sussex provided an in-depth look at advanced techniques in welding stainless steel during an on-site event. The talk covered the differences and similarities between carbon steel and stainless steel grades, the effects of preparation and welding on material properties, and the importance of post-weld processing such as heat treatment and passivation to restore corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. The session also explored various finishes for welded stainless steel, discussing both aesthetic and functional aspects of these finishes to enhance the end product’s performance and appearance.
10. Membership Committee
Chairman: Mr. Suggu Ravi Chandra Reddy
Vice Chairman: Mr. Bong Khong Lee
The membership committee has outlined its goals and objectives for the upcoming year, aligning them with the society’s overarching strategic plan as per the roadmap.
Identifying challenges in terms of membership growth and retention is crucial. To address this, strategies have been defined in the roadmap to increase membership. These include defining the benefits of joining the society and implementing targeted marketing campaigns across various channels such as email, online portals, and social media platforms to reach potential members.
The implementation of our new computer system and website is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency of our administrative processes.
For members who have not updated their profiles, we encourage you to reach out to the Chairman or Vice Chairman of the membership committee. Additionally, we welcome your feedback via our website, and we assure you that we will respond promptly.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and active involvement over the years. Your contributions and participation have been invaluable to the Singapore Welding Society.
Thank you once again for being an integral part of our society. We are truly fortunate to have members like you, and we genuinely appreciate your dedication and active participation.
As of 31 March 2024, the membership status is as follows:
Membership Type | Number |
Corporate | 181 |
Fellows | 10 |
Full | 154 |
Associate | 2 |
Student | 0 |
Total | 347 |
On the evening of January 25th, 2024, the Singapore Welding Society (SWS) hosted its annual Members’ Night at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang. The highlight of the event was the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the esteemed National Trade Union Congress (NTUC). Ms. Yeo Wan Ling, Assistant Secretary-General and Director of NTUC U SME and U Women and Family, represented NTUC during the MoU signing ceremony.
Following the signing ceremony, Dr. Sun Zheng, President of SWS, presented the Distinguished Corporate Member Award to Mun Siong Engineering Limited. This award is bestowed upon eligible corporate members who have been affiliated with SWS for 25 years or more. The society acknowledges and appreciates the steadfast support and significant contributions made by these corporate members throughout the years and looks forward to their continued support in the future.
11. Certification and Common Welder Qualification Scheme (CWQS) Committee
Chairman: Mr P Radhakrishnan
Vice Chairman: Mr Khoo Kok Leong
SWS Common Welder Qualification Scheme (CWQS) is in place. The following twelve (12) WQTCs are currently in the scheme:
- ACE Quality Testing & Inspection Services Pte Ltd
- A-Star Testing & Inspection (S) Pte Ltd
- Atomic Technologies Pte Ltd
- Cast Laboratories Pte Ltd
- Cutech Process Services Pte Ltd
- Element Testing Services Pte Ltd
- Goodwill Engineering & Inspection Services Pte Ltd
- Leads Specialist Services Pte Ltd
- Masterscan Engineering Pte Ltd
- Setsco Services Pte Ltd
- SGS Testing & Control Services Singapore Pte Ltd
- Worldscan Engineering Pte Ltd
Interviewing and assessment of additional CWQS Welding Inspectors was carried out during the past year when requested by the WQTCs.
Review of the CWQS Standards and Procedures is planned for Year 2024.
12. IIW 2023 Annual Assembly and International Conference Organising Committee
Chairman: Dr Sun Zheng
Vice Chairman: Mr P Radhakrishnan
July 2023 marked a significant milestone for SWS as we hosted the 76th International Institute of Welding (IIW) Annual Assembly & International Conference on Welding and Joining from July 16th to 21st at Singapore’s renowned Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. This marked the second occasion that SWS had the privilege to host this esteemed event, following our first hosting 14 years ago. It also signified the resumption of the first full face-to-face IIW Annual Assembly after a 3-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On behalf of the organizing committee, I am delighted to announce that SWS successfully executed the IIW 2023 Annual Assembly and International Conference, welcoming over 800 delegates from more than 40 countries. Once again, we showcased Singapore’s capability to deliver a memorable IIW Annual Assembly for the global welding community. The success of this event was made possible by the tremendous effort of the dedicated organizing committee, the event organizer Spark Planners, and the generous support from our sponsors, including the Singapore Tourist Board (STB) and IIW Secretariat. Our success underscores the power of teamwork, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to making this event a success.
In addition to Singapore’s outstanding conference infrastructure, the success of the event can be attributed to several key factors:
(i) The exceptional professional services provided by the event organizer, Spark Planners Pte Ltd
(ii) The generous support from our sponsors
(iii) The support from delegates, a testament to SWS’s extensive network with IIW country members
(iv) The unwavering commitment of organizing committee members
(v) The understanding and support from IIW and SWS members
Without the collective support of these stakeholders, the event would not have achieved its remarkable success. We take pride in showcasing Singapore’s allure and delivering a memorable IIW Annual Assembly for the global welding community. We eagerly anticipate hosting our next international event in the near future.
13. Conclusion
Looking ahead, the SWS council remains dedicated to enhancing value for our members. Our steadfast strategic objectives encompass:
- Engaging in regional and international activities to benefit SWS and Singapore.
- Providing a vibrant platform for knowledge sharing and member interaction.
- Organizing forums, welding-related events, and global conferences.
- Expanding membership and fostering young talents to serve the Society.
- Facilitating industry education and training programs.
- Contributing to the development of national and international standards.
- Pursuing society growth, productivity, and innovation.
With the completion of the Operation & Technology Roadmap (OTR), we have established the foundation for the next five years. Let us now energetically execute this roadmap, propelling SWS to new heights.
I extend my sincere gratitude to all SWS members for your unwavering support. Your feedback and suggestions are invaluable as we strengthen our society’s resilience in a dynamic world. Special thanks to our dedicated council members whose diligent service elevates SWS to global prominence.
To all present at the AGM, I extend warm wishes for an enjoyable weekend.
Thank you,
Dr Sun Zheng
President
Singapore Welding Society