ExcelPlas PPWT is fully dedicated to the testing of butt fusion and electrofusion welds for pipelines to the required standards. Our computer controlled Flash Cut CNC Milling machine can profile test samples to meet any specific shape required for tensile testing of pipe welds.

We would recommend that the first pipe weld from the day’s production should be sent for testing to ascertain the integrity of the weld. There should be at least 200mm of pipe either side of the weld to provide adequate grip for machining and clamping.

The weld should be clearly marked with pipe size, SDR, identifying contractor, project, welder ID, joint no., and date. Ideally weld test results should be known for a section of pipe before it is installed and backfilled.

Should it become apparent that a weld is faulty, the previous and proceeding weld should be tested to ascertain the extent of the faulty welding. A weld is deemed satisfactory when it yields at above 90% of the virgin mean strength and fails in a ductile mode on all profile samples.

Cross Section of a Well Prepared Butt Weld

Fusion Bead Profile

Different Butt Welding Conditions

 

Weld Evaluation

The most reliable methods of weld evaluation are the destructive type. Destructive test methods require tensile testing of welds and pipe in order to establish the strength of the weld as a percentage of pipe strength.

CNC Machine to Cut Test Specimens from Pipe

 

Milling of Pipe Testing Specimen

 

Milling of Sample for ISO 13953

 

Testing of Poly Pipe Butt Welds

 

Weld Bead Width Measurements