CMS3900 thanks for the info on the local groups. Haven't heard about the eastern shore group. Already have the application form filled out for the Central Maryland Guild filled out. The stuff I made the hook on is actually a guy who is a member of theirs. I will unfortunately be camping on the 20th. Sounds cool though.
Frosty, Yep. Since I'm a steamfitter we started on plate steel. Then had to pass a bend test with schedule 40 6" pipe, locked in the 6G position. Then after that moved on to a x-ray test with schedule 80 2" pipe also locked in a 6G. All the while they inspect your fitting of the joint, your tacks, and all the passes you make on it till its done. You'd be correct, just trying to hold something together is quite different than holding pressure.