Company History
Past to present.
We are SGS Canada Inc. with offices in Calgary and Edmonton, Formerly Ludwig Associates Engineering Ltd., acquired by SGS in 2012. SGS Ludwig has been servicing the Canadian Market and beyond for more than 40 years, providing unrivalled welding services, consultation and materials testing.
1978: Inception
Ludwig’s Welding Consulting was founded by Wayne Ludwig. Initially specializing in welding procedure development and quality management systems, the company began its journey with a commitment to excellence in the field of welding. At this time Ludwig’s did not have their own lab and was completing mechanical testing at SAIT through a mutual collaboration.
1983: Growth and Expansion in Calgary
As the demand for its services grew, Ludwig’s Welding Consulting relocated to its current office in Calgary. This move facilitated the establishment of a fully equipped lab and machine shop, enabling the company to expand its offerings. During this time, the welder performance test center was established, marking a significant milestone in the company’s evolution.
1986: Introduction of Inspection Services
The addition of Frank Langenecker to the team brought expertise in establishing third-party inspection services and further growing the quality management system service line. This bolstered the company’s capabilities and contributed to its growth trajectory. Although the third-party inspection service was later disbanded this facilitated growth within the industry.
1988: Expansion to Edmonton
Ludwig’s Welding Consulting expanded its presence by opening an office in Edmonton. Despite facing challenges such as a fire incident in 1995 that necessitated relocation, the company remained resilient in its pursuit of excellence and growth.
1990: Facility Expansion in Calgary
To accommodate its growing operations, Ludwig’s Welding Consulting expanded its Calgary building, adding square footage for an enhanced welder performance test center.
1993: Introduction of Engineering Services
The establishment of the engineering department marked a new chapter in the company’s history. Led by Rory Belanger in the Edmonton office, the engineering services further diversified Ludwig’s offerings, positioning it as a comprehensive solution provider in the industry.
1994: Transition to Ludwig & Associates
Wayne Ludwig passes on shares of the business to junior partners Frank Langenecker, Ron Peters, Stephen Rieberger, and Rory Belanger, officially renaming the company Ludwig & Associates.
1995: Relocation within Edmonton
Following a fire incident at the first Edmonton location, Ludwig & Associates purchased another building where they are still located at present date, reaffirming its commitment to serving clients in the Edmonton region.
2002: Change in Ownership
Wayne Ludwig sells the business to the junior partners, marking a significant transition as the company officially became Ludwig Associates. This period also saw the introduction of fracture mechanics testing, further enhancing the company’s technical capabilities.
2003 – 2010: Focus on Growth
Ludwig Associates grows to become the industry leader in Western Canada for welding consulting, engineering, materials testing, quality manuals, and welder performance qualification testing by focusing on customer satisfaction and innovation.
2011: Collaboration and Innovation
Ludwig Associates collaborated on new single edge notch tension (SENT) procedures, showcasing its dedication to innovation, and advancing industry standards.
2012: Acquisition by SGS
Ludwig Associates was acquired by SGS, a global leader in inspection, verification, testing, and certification services, opening new avenues for growth and collaboration.
2015: Introduction of CWB Services
Under SGS ownership, the company introduced W47.1 Retained engineering services and began CWB welder performance testing, expanding its service portfolio to better serve its clients.
2020 to 2022: Milestone Project Completion
SGS completed the largest project in the company’s 42-year history, involving a major pipeline replacement project to the requirements of CSA Z662 Annex K. This project included welding procedure development and fracture mechanics testing (CTOD), highlighting the company’s expertise and capabilities on a grand scale.
2023: Innovation in Testing Equipment
SGS launched rotary impact testing equipment and commissioned it for use, further strengthening its position as an industry leader in testing and inspection services.
2024 and Beyond:
As SGS-Ludwig continues to evolve and innovate, it remains committed to delivering exceptional quality and service to its clients, shaping the future of the industry.