Describes a real‐time quality control monitoring system for arc welding which has been developed to both control the manufacturing process by monitoring critical parameters and to provide process performance information to management and engineering personal. Describes the monitoring system and compares its performance with standard post‐weld QC systems which only discover defects after the event. Concludes that computerised monitoring systems provide an invaluable tool for improving productivity and enhancing the quality of welded fabrications. This particular systems is currently in use in a variety of industries.