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Straight seam steel pipes play a vital role in various industrial applications due to their durability and performance. Their production involves sophisticated technology divided into two major phases: the forming phase and the post-forming production phase. Each phase incorporates specific techniques and processes to ensure the quality and functionality of the final product.
1. Forming and Production Phases
The production process is divided into two main periods:
Forming Phase: This stage focuses on shaping the steel into pipes using different forming methods. Large-diameter straight seam submerged arc welded (SSAW) steel pipes are typically manufactured abroad using one of four forming methods:
UOE Forming: A process involving U-shaped pressing followed by O-shaped pressing and expansion.
Roll Bending Forming: Uses rollers to bend the steel plate into a circular shape.
Step-by-Step Die Forming: Sequentially presses steel plates into pipe shapes.
Step-by-Step Bending Forming: Gradually bends steel plates to achieve the desired curvature.
Production Phase: After forming, the pipe undergoes various subsequent processes to enhance its structural integrity and ensure it meets industry standards.
2. Plate Edge Processing and Welding Groove Preparation
To prepare steel plates for welding, the edges are processed into specific groove shapes depending on the plate thickness:
Processing Methods:
Milling and Planning: Single or multiple milling/planing heads are used to create grooves.
Groove Types:
L-Shaped, Single-V, or Double-V Grooves: Commonly used for different plate thicknesses.
U-Shaped Groove: Applied for extremely thick steel pipes to reduce welding material consumption, improve productivity, and prevent defects.
Positioning Welding (Pre-Welding):
This step uses CO₂ gas-protected welding to stabilize the steel pipe for subsequent submerged arc welding.
Pre-welding helps prevent burn-through and ensures pipe stability during production.
3. Flaw Detection and Structural Adjustments
Welding quality and pipe structure are assessed and adjusted through the following processes:
Flaw Detection:
Wave Flaw Detection and X-Ray Inspection: These are conducted immediately after welding to quickly identify defects, which are then repaired to ensure the pipe’s integrity.
Sizing and Straightening:
Post-welding, the steel pipe's roundness and straightness may not meet required standards. These are corrected using mechanical cold expansion to achieve the desired dimensions.
Pressure Testing:
Pipes undergo rigorous pressure testing, with pressures reaching over 90% of the material's yield strength to ensure safety and reliability.
Conclusion
Straight seam steel pipe production technology is a precise and structured process, combining advanced forming methods, accurate groove preparation, and stringent quality controls. By following these processes, manufacturers produce pipes that meet high-performance standards, suitable for diverse industrial applications.