PWHT – Post Weld Heat Treatment

PWHT-1

About PWHT

Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) is a controlled thermal treatment carried out after the welding process. The welded component is heated, maintained at a specified temperature and then cooled under controlled conditions.

The primary purpose of PWHT is to relieve residual stresses generated during welding. It can also help improve ductility and toughness while reducing hardness in the welded area.

PWHT is commonly associated with critical industrial equipment such as boilers, pressure vessels and pipelines, where controlled post-weld heat treatment is important for the component’s performance.

PWHT Process

01 — Heating
The component is gradually heated to the required temperature under controlled conditions.
02 — Soaking
The required temperature is maintained for the specified period to allow the material to undergo the intended heat treatment.
03 — Controlled Cooling
After the soaking period, the component is cooled under controlled conditions.

Applications

Key Benefits

Why PWHT Matters

Residual Stress Relief
Helps relieve residual stresses created during welding.

Improved Ductility & Toughness
Can improve the ductility and toughness of the material.

Reduced Hardness
Helps reduce hardness in the treated welded area.

Technical Control

Controlled Temperature as a Function of Time

PWHT requires controlled temperature management throughout the heating, soaking and cooling stages. The temperature is monitored as a function of time to maintain the required heat-treatment cycle.

This controlled approach supports consistent execution of the PWHT process.

PWHT at LOHITHA Services

Professional Heat Treatment Solutions

LOHITHA Services provides heat treatment capabilities including Preheating, Post Heating and PWHT for industrial applications.

Our service approach focuses on quality, safety, accuracy and timely execution, supporting the requirements of critical industrial projects.