Electric Fusion Welding (EFW) is a welding process that utilizes an electric arc to melt the base material and filler material (if used) to create a welded joint. This process is commonly used in manufacturing large-diameter pipe joints for various applications, ranging from oil and gas pipelines to water supply lines and construction.
EFW pipes are popular for several reasons, including their high strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. This article will discuss everything you need to know about EFW pipes, including their types, applications, advantages, and disadvantages.
What is EFW Pipe?
EFW (Electric Fusion Welded) Pipe is a type of steel pipe construction that involves electric current being applied to the ends of two lengths of metal. The intense heat melts the steel and bonds it together, creating a seamless connection with no gaps or weak points. This fusion welding process enables pipes to be bent, warped, and shaped into various configurations as needed. Compared to other methods, such as threaded piping, EFW pipe offers superior strength and durability while also providing easier installation due to its flexibility. It has become increasingly popular in applications such as plumbing and industrial water-processing systems because it can handle high-pressure levels safely without the risk of splitting or leaking. Additionally, it is corrosion resistant and creates a tight joint seal which ensures efficient transport of liquids through piping networks over long distances.
Complete Guide About EFW Pipe
Types of EFW Pipe
Two primary types of EFW pipes are longitudinal Welding and spiral welding. Longitudinal Welding, also known as straight seam welding, involves welding two edges of a steel plate or coil together to create a long and straight pipe. On the other hand, Spiral Welding involves rolling a steel plate or coil into a pipe shape and welding the seams together along a spiral path.
Longitudinal Welding
Longitudinal Welding is a type of Welding that involves joining two materials along their length. It is used in many applications, such as pipe fabrication, shipbuilding and automotive engineering. The most popular longitudinal welding techniques are submerged arc welding (SAW) and gas metal arc welding (GMAW). SAW requires electrodes to be melted in a shielded environment by supplying additional current through an electrode wire. At the same time, GMAW uses heat generated from an electric arc between the base material and a consumable wire to join them together.
Longitudinal Welding is advantageous for its accuracy in controlling the weld’s parameters such as speed, width, overlap etc., relative ease of operation compared to other types of Welding, improved stability thanks to the presence of specific tools for it, and less chance of distortion during cooling down due to its uniform heating over extended lengths. Additionally, it offers high productivity with fewer defects using automated processes like robot/machine-guided methods or mechanized track-based technologies, which ultimately result in better-quality welded joints.
Spiral Welding
Spiral welding is a common welding technique used in many industries. This method is advantageous due to its structural strength and cost efficiency compared to other welding methods. In this process, the two ends of the workpiece (pipe or tube) are first prepared by forming a V-shaped groove at their respective edges, followed by adding filler material between them, which bridges the gap. Then, an electric arc is applied along with heat from turning rollers, which starts to melt the filler material, creating a spiral weld pattern as it moves along the length of both pieces simultaneously. The result is a strong and reliable joint with high resistance to fatigue and corrosion for applications requiring higher-grade materials and protection against various chemical agents. It is suitable for numerous engineering situations in sectors such as oil & gas, automotive, aerospace, etc.
Applications of EFW Pipe
Sewage Treatment
EFW pipe can be used in sewage treatment plants to convey sludge and other waste products. The pipe is resistant to the corrosive effects of sewage, and it can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Mining
EFW pipe can also be used in mining applications to transport minerals and other materials. The pipe is resistant to abrasion and corrosion and can handle high temperatures and pressures.
Oil and Gas
EFW pipe is also used in the oil and gas industry to transport oil, gas, and other fluids. The pipe is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Chemical Processing
EFW pipe can also be used in chemical processing plants to transport chemicals and other materials. The pipe is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Power Generation
EFW pipe can also be used in power generation plants to transport steam, water, and other fluids. The pipe is resistant to corrosion and can withstand high temperatures and pressures.
Advantages of EFW Pipe
One of the primary advantages of EFW pipes is their high strength and durability. They are also resistant to corrosion and can withstand extreme temperatures and pressure. They are easy to fabricate, making them a popular choice for large-diameter pipes. Additionally, they can be made from various materials, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy steel, depending on the application requirements.
Conclusion:
EFW pipes are a reliable choice for various applications, ranging from oil and gas pipelines to water supply systems and construction. They are known for their high strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of fabrication. Despite some disadvantages, such as a larger wall thickness and the potential for defects, EFW pipes remain popular in many industries due to their durability and versatility. If you require large-diameter pipes for your project, EFW pipes may be the ideal solution for your needs.
