Top 11 Piping Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for a piping designer in the job market because they demonstrate that the designer has both current knowledge and experience in their field. Certified professionals are sought after by employers, as they are seen as reliable, knowledgeable and trustworthy. Certification also shows that the designer is up-to-date on industry standards and best practices, which can be invaluable when designing complex systems. Additionally, certifications can lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities, as employers know that certified professionals have the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job right.

The article reviews the top certifications for Piping Designers and explains how they can help to advance a piping designer's career.

What are Piping Designer Certifications?

Piping designer certification is a professional qualification for designers who work in the fields of piping design, layout, and engineering. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field. The certification covers topics such as material selection, pressure vessel design, pipe routing and stress analysis.

Having a piping designer certification can help you stand out from other applicants in the job market. It shows potential employers that you have advanced knowledge and experience in the field of piping design. Additionally, it can give you access to higher-paying positions as well as more opportunities to advance your career as a piping designer. Furthermore, having this certification can open up doors to new career paths and opportunities within the industry.

Overall, having a piping designer certification can be extremely beneficial for anyone looking to work in this field or further their career prospects. It provides recognition for your expertise and knowledge in the field and gives you access to more job opportunities and better pay.

Pro Tip: Before you begin the process of getting certified as a piping designer, do some research to make sure that the certification program you are considering is recognized by employers in your field. This will ensure that the time and money you invest into obtaining your certification will be worth it in the long run.

Related: What does a Piping Designer do?

Top 11 Piping Designer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Piping Designers today.

1. ASME B31.3 Process Piping Certification

ASME B31.3 Process Piping Certification is a certification program that provides assurance that piping systems are designed, fabricated, and tested in accordance with the requirements of ASME B31.3 – Process Piping Code. It is an internationally recognized standard for process piping design, fabrication, and testing.

The certification process typically takes around 6-8 weeks to complete depending on the complexity of the project. The first step is to submit a request for certification along with supporting documents such as drawings, material test reports, welding procedure specifications (WPS), non-destructive examination (NDE) reports and other relevant information. After the submission has been reviewed by ASME representatives, an inspection team will be sent to the facility where the piping system was fabricated. The inspection team will conduct a thorough review of all aspects of fabrication including welds, materials used, NDE results and other related items. Once all criteria have been met and approved by ASME representatives, a certificate of compliance will be issued to the company or individual who requested it.

The cost of getting an ASME B31.3 Process Piping Certification varies depending on several factors such as size of project, complexity of design and number of inspections required. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for larger projects.

In conclusion, ASME B31.3 Process Piping Certification is an important certification program that provides assurance that piping systems are designed, fabricated and tested in accordance with the requirements of ASME B31.3 – Process Piping Code. It typically takes 6-8 weeks to complete the process and costs can vary depending on various factors such as size of project and complexity of design.

2. Certified Piping Designer (CPD)

Certified Piping Designer (CPD) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The CPD certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced piping designers. This certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary experience and qualifications to design safe, reliable, and efficient piping systems for industrial applications.

In order to obtain the CPD certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in piping design work. They must also pass a written exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam covers topics such as pipe stress analysis, fluid mechanics, material selection, fabrication techniques, codes and standards, safety practices, and more.

The cost of obtaining the CPD certification varies depending on the region in which you are located. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500 - $2,000 USD. The cost includes registration fees and any applicable taxes or other fees associated with taking the exam.

The entire process of obtaining the CPD certification typically takes between six months to one year. During this time period applicants must complete all necessary paperwork and submit their application for review by ASME. Once approved they will receive their certificate within two weeks after passing the exam.

3. Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

A Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is a professional certification offered by the American Welding Society (AWS). The CWI certification is designed to ensure that welders have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly inspect welding operations.

The CWI certification process consists of three parts: an open book written exam, a practical exam, and a visual inspection exam. The open book written exam covers topics such as welding metallurgy, welding processes, welding symbols, codes and standards, and safety. The practical exam requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to inspect welds using various tools and techniques. Finally, the visual inspection exam requires the candidate to identify defects in welds.

It typically takes 8-12 weeks to complete all three parts of the CWI certification process. Candidates must register for each part separately with AWS and pay a fee for each part. The fees vary depending on the type of certification sought but range from $300-$600 per part.

4. Certified Pipe Welder (CPW)

Certified Pipe Welder (CPW) is a certification that demonstrates an individual's ability to weld pipes in accordance with industry standards. It is issued by the American Welding Society (AWS) after passing their rigorous welding examination.

The exam consists of two parts: a written test and a practical test. The written test covers topics such as welding safety, metallurgy, pipe welding processes, and other related topics. The practical test requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to weld different types of materials and sizes of pipes using various welding techniques.

It typically takes between 1-3 months to get certified depending on the individual's level of experience and preparation for the exam. To become certified, individuals must first complete an AWS approved course or apprenticeship program in pipe welding. After completing the course or program, they can then register for the CPW exam through the AWS website.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of course or apprenticeship program taken, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

5. American Petroleum Institute (API) 653 Tank Inspector Certification

API 653 Tank Inspector Certification is a certification program developed by the American Petroleum Institute (API) to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in inspecting, repairing, altering, and reconstructing aboveground storage tanks. The API 653 certification is valid for a three-year period.

To obtain the API 653 certification, an individual must first pass an open-book written exam. This exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics related to tank inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction. The exam fee is $400 USD and it takes approximately four hours to complete.

Once the written exam has been passed, the applicant must then submit a work experience form detailing their qualifications in tank inspection, repair, alteration or reconstruction. This form must be signed by two qualified professionals who can verify the applicant’s experience in this field. After submitting this form, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the Practical Exam.

The Practical Exam requires applicants to inspect a simulated tank using API standards and procedures. The exam fee is $600 USD and it takes approximately four hours to complete. Once both exams have been successfully completed, applicants will be issued their API 653 Tank Inspector Certification card which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

The cost of obtaining the API 653 Tank Inspector Certification is $1000 USD ($400 for the written exam and $600 for the practical exam).

6. National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Coating Inspector Certification

The National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE) Coating Inspector Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure the competency of individuals who inspect and evaluate protective coatings and linings applied to steel structures. This certification is highly sought after by employers in the corrosion engineering profession, as it serves as an indication of an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field.

In order to become certified, applicants must first complete a NACE-approved training course. These courses typically take between two and four days to complete, depending on the level of certification being pursued. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of at least 70%. Upon successful completion of both requirements, individuals are then eligible for certification.

The cost of obtaining NACE Coating Inspector Certification varies based on the level of certification being pursued. Generally speaking, however, most courses range from $1,000-$2,000 USD per person. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the written exam and/or obtaining any necessary materials or supplies needed for the course or exam.

Overall, obtaining NACE Coating Inspector Certification can be a time-consuming and expensive process; however, it is well worth it for those looking to advance their career in corrosion engineering.

7. Pressure Vessel Design & Fabrication Certification

Pressure Vessel Design & Fabrication Certification is a certification program designed to ensure that pressure vessels are designed and fabricated in accordance with industry standards. It is intended to ensure that the pressure vessel design and fabrication process meets the requirements of the applicable codes and standards.

How long does it take to get it? The time required to obtain Pressure Vessel Design & Fabrication Certification depends on the complexity of the project, as well as the experience level of the personnel involved. Generally, it takes between one and three months to complete the process.

How to get it? To obtain Pressure Vessel Design & Fabrication Certification, applicants must submit an application package which includes a detailed description of their proposed project, along with supporting documents such as drawings, calculations, material specifications, etc. The application package will then be reviewed by a qualified professional engineer who will assess its compliance with applicable codes and standards. If approved, a certificate will be issued.

How much does it cost? The cost of obtaining Pressure Vessel Design & Fabrication Certification varies depending on the complexity of the project and other factors such as location and type of materials used. Generally speaking, costs can range from several hundred dollars for small projects up to several thousand dollars for larger projects.

8. International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Plumbing Designer Certification

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) Plumbing Designer Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the knowledge, experience, and skills of plumbing designers. The certification is designed to provide assurance that a plumbing designer has the necessary qualifications to effectively design safe and efficient plumbing systems.

To obtain IAPMO Plumbing Designer Certification, an individual must complete an application form, pass a written examination, and submit references from two licensed plumbers who have worked with them on at least one project. The written exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as codes and standards, materials selection, system design principles, installation methods, safety considerations, and more.

The cost for the IAPMO Plumbing Designer Certification is $395 for members of IAPMO or $495 for non-members. It typically takes around three months to complete the process from start to finish.

9. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code Certification

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code Certification is a certification program for the design, fabrication, and inspection of boilers and pressure vessels. This certification program is designed to ensure that all components used in the construction of boilers and pressure vessels are safe, reliable, and meet the standards set forth by ASME.

The process of obtaining an ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code Certification can take anywhere from three months to two years depending on the complexity of the project. The first step in obtaining this certification is to submit an application to ASME. This application must include detailed information about the design, fabrication, and inspection of the boiler or pressure vessel. Once this application is approved by ASME, they will assign an inspector to inspect the boiler or pressure vessel and its components. If everything passes inspection, then ASME will issue a Certificate of Authorization which allows you to use their logo on your product.

The cost for obtaining an ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code Certification varies depending on the complexity of the project as well as any additional services requested such as third-party inspections or testing services. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 USD for a complete certification package.

In addition to obtaining an ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code Certification, companies may also need other certifications such as National Board R Stamp or Canadian Registration Number (CRN). These certifications may require additional fees and paperwork so it’s important to research all requirements before beginning any project.

10. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Protection System Designer Certification

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Protection System Designer Certification is a professional certification program that verifies an individual’s knowledge and competency in the design of fire protection systems. This certification is designed to ensure that those who are designing fire protection systems have the necessary skills and expertise to do so safely and effectively.

To become certified, applicants must complete a five-day course on NFPA standards for fire protection system design. The course includes lectures, discussions, and hands-on exercises focused on topics such as sprinkler system design, fire alarm system design, smoke control systems, standpipe systems, and other related topics. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam administered by the NFPA to receive their certification.

The cost of the NFPA Fire Protection System Designer Certification program varies depending on whether you take the course online or in person. Online courses typically cost between $500-$1000 while in-person courses can cost up to $3000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam.

In total, it takes approximately two weeks to receive your certification after completing the five-day course and passing the exam.

11. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Pipeline Design & Construction Standardization Certification

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Pipeline Design & Construction Standardization Certification is an industry-recognized certification that verifies a company’s compliance with ASTM standards for pipeline design, construction, and operation. It is designed to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency in the development of pipelines.

To obtain the certification, companies must demonstrate that they meet or exceed ASTM standards for pipeline design, construction, and operation. This includes demonstrating that they have appropriate personnel qualifications and experience; have established policies and procedures to ensure safe operations; are compliant with applicable regulations; and have adequate resources available to manage their operations.

The process of obtaining the certification typically takes several months. Companies must submit an application package to ASTM which includes a detailed description of their organization’s activities related to pipeline design, construction, and operation. The application package must also include evidence of compliance with applicable regulations as well as supporting documents such as employee resumes or certifications. Once the application package is submitted, it is reviewed by ASTM staff who will assess whether the company meets all requirements for certification.

The cost of obtaining the certification varies depending on the size of the organization applying for it but can range from $1,000 to $5,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with preparing the required documentation or hiring consultants to assist in meeting all requirements for certification.

Do You Really Need a Piping Designer Certificate?

The answer to this question is going to depend on the individual and their specific career goals. For some people, a piping designer certificate may be necessary in order to get a job or advance in their current field. However, for others, the certificate may not be necessary at all. It really depends on what type of work you are looking to do and the qualifications that employers require.

If you are interested in becoming a piping designer, then it is likely that you will need some kind of certification or degree in order to apply for jobs and be competitive within the industry. A certificate program can provide an opportunity for students to learn about the fundamentals of design as well as gain hands-on experience with real-world projects. This type of education can also open up opportunities for internships and other job prospects that may not be available without certification.

On the other hand, if your primary goal is simply to understand more about piping design principles and theory then a certificate might not be necessary. There are many resources available online such as books, websites, and tutorials that can help someone who is self-taught become knowledgeable about piping design principles. Additionally, there are often local organizations or clubs that offer classes related to pipe design which can help broaden one’s knowledge base without needing any kind of certification or degree.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a piping designer certificate really depends on their individual goals and career path. For those looking to enter into a professional role related to pipe design then it is likely that some kind of formal education will be beneficial. However, for those who simply want to expand their knowledge base then there are plenty of resources available without needing any kind of certification or degree.

Related: Piping Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Piping Designer Certifications

Q1: What is a Piping Designer Certification?

A1: A Piping Designer Certification is a professional certification program that is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills required to design, construct, and maintain piping systems. The program covers topics such as pipe materials, fittings, valves, pumps, and other components of piping systems.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Piping Designer?

A2: To become certified as a Piping Designer, you must complete an accredited certification program. Many organizations offer these programs online or in-person. You will also need to pass an examination in order to receive your certification.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Piping Designer?

A3: The benefits of becoming a Certified Piping Designer include increased job opportunities and higher pay rates; improved knowledge of the latest technology used in piping design; increased credibility when working with clients; and recognition from employers as an expert in the field.

Q4: What should I expect during the certification process?

A4: During the certification process, you should expect to take classes on topics such as pipe materials and fittings, valves, pumps, and other components of piping systems. You will also need to pass an exam at the end of the program in order to receive your certification.

Q5: Is there any additional training or continuing education required after becoming a Certified Piping Designer?

A5: Yes, continuing education is important for maintaining your certification status. Organizations offering certifications typically require periodic refresher courses or other activities that demonstrate continued competency in the field.