Pipelines are used for many different things, like taking liquid, gas, or water from one place to another. For this reason, pipes are wielded so that they can be made in the required length. When steel pipe fabricators manufacture pipes, they make them in one size, which is then welded to different lengths per requirement. Many different methods are used to do this in the pipeline industry, which is a very demanding profession. It is said that the chosen method depends on where the wielding is required to take place, the size of the pipe, and the material used for it. The following blog discusses some of the methods of wielding a pipe.
Flux-cored Arc Welding
The Flux-cored Arc Wielding is commonly known as FCAW, which uses an electric arc that can generate heat and combine electrode filler wire to metal pipe section. This kind of wielding has two sub-categories: self-shielding and gas shielding FCAW. Gas-shielding uses some semi-automated tools to make this process easier, whereas self-shielded methods avoid any of these tools. The main advantage is that thick materials can be welded with this method, which is best if you want to do it outdoors. The only disadvantage is that it can cause many hazardous gasses, which can cause visibility problems for the steel pipe fabricator during the operation.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding
Shielded Metal Arc Welding is also known as SMAW, or stovepipe and stick-wielding, which uses an electric arc to melt down the electrode through the heat generated in that arc. Later this molten material is put on metal pipes to join them together. This method is very portable, and the steel pipe fabricator does not require to use of any shielding gas to complete the process. The wielders need to ensure that the welding machines are fitted with the proper electrode for the material.
Submerged Arc Welding
In this method, the arc is not seeable; it also provides the highest deposition efficiency when compared to all other pipe welding methods. The electric arc is used to continuously work on the metal pipe and electrode that produces powdered flux, which covers the whole arc. The wield zone is protected by the conduction between the electrode and the metal that is produced by the flux. As the electrics are all ‘submerged’ below the flux, thus it is known as submerged arc welding.
Gas Metal Arc Welding
In this method, the steel pipe fabricator, shielding gas, and electrode are applied to two metal pipe sections to join. The biggest advantage of this method is that it can give you high speed and versatility when performed with the best-automated tools. The only disadvantage is that the wielder needs to have a high amount of control to produce high-quality welds.
Specialized Field in Pipe Construction
International Pipe & Supply has the right knowledge, skill, and equipment required to do the job. They can provide you with the best pipes you might need for your work.