Abstract
Steel pipe welding is a common method for transporting fluids, especially for large-diameter pipes. With the development of technology, a new technique for welding steel pipe has been developed—spiral seam submerged arc welding. This technique has a number of advantages over previous versions of pipe welding and is becoming increasingly popular, especially for large diameter pipes. This paper gives an overview of the spiral seam submerged arc welding technique, its advantages over conventional pipe welding methods, and its application in the field of general fluid transportation pipelines.
Introduction
Steel pipe welding is a common method for transporting fluids, especially for large-diameter pipes. It has been extensively used for numerous applications ranging from chemical and petrochemical processing, to fluid handling, and even firefighting. This method involves joining two steel pipe ends together and then creating a weld along their edges. Traditionally, steel pipe welding has been done with a process called electric arc welding, which uses a continuous arc of electricity between the electrodes to heat the edges of the steel pipe and create the weld. This method is still used in many applications and is capable of producing high-quality welds.
However, with the advancement of technology, a new method for steel pipe welding has been developed—spiral seam submerged arc welding. This technique was developed to address some of the limitations of electric arc welding, such as the buildup of slag at the weld joint, which can affect the strength of the weld. In addition, the spiral seam welding technique is more reliable and economical than the traditional method. This paper will discuss the characteristics and advantages of spiral seam submerged arc welding in comparison to electric arc welding, as well as its application in the field of general fluid transportation pipelines.
Characteristics and Advantages of Spiral Seam Submerged Arc Welding
Spiral seam submerged arc welding is different from electric arc welding in a few distinct ways. First, it is done underwater, which eliminates the risk of sparks and flash burns during welding. This also eliminates the need for shielding gas, which makes it more economical. Second, the welding process is done in a spiral pattern around the circumference of the pipe, eliminating any need for full penetrations. The spiral pattern also eliminates the need for multiple weld passes, reducing the amount of weld material required and providing a stronger joint. Finally, the welding process produces a smoother weld that minimizes potential cracks and ensures weld consistency.
In terms of advantages over electric arc welding, there are several. First, because of the underwater environment, the process is more consistent, resulting in higher quality welds. Second, submerged arc welding produces more consistent heat over the entire circumference of the pipe, eliminating the need for multiple weld passes. Third, the use of spiral seam welding produces a smoother joint which is less prone to cracking.
Applications of Spiral Seam Submerged Arc Welding
Spiral seam submerged arc welding has a wide range of uses, but it is especially suited for large-diameter pipe applications. The technique is being used increasingly in the field of general fluid transportation pipelines, where large diameters are often required. It is also being used in oil and gas pipelines, chemical processing plants, and other industrial facilities. In all these applications, the use of spiral seam submerged arc welding reduces costs and improves weld quality.
Conclusion
Spiral seam submerged arc welding is a relatively new technique for steel pipe welding that has a number of advantages over electric arc welding. This technique is more economical, produces more consistent welds, and eliminates the need for multiple weld passes. It is also being used increasingly in the field of general fluid transportation pipelines. This paper has outlined the characteristics and advantages of spiral seam submerged arc welding, as well as its application in the field of general fluid transportation pipelines.
