What Is ERW Pipe?
ERW pipe is a type of steel pipe that is manufactured by a process called electric resistance welding. This process involves heating a tube blank to a high temperature and then fusing the edges of the metal together with a current and applied pressure. ERW pipe is a cheaper form of pipe that can be used for a variety of different applications. It’s also more resistant to corrosion than seamless pipe.
Common Uses of ERW Pipe in Various Industries
ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) pipe is one of the most common pipes used in many industries. It is manufactured by cold-forming steel coils or strips into pipes and then welding them together. During this process, high-frequency electrical current is passed between the edges of the steel tube blanks. This causes the edges to melt and fuse together, forming the welded joints.
In addition to being made of stainless steel, ERW pipes are also available in a variety of other materials. Some of the most common types include carbon steel and aluminum alloys. ERW pipes can be used for both low and high pressure applications. However, if the pipes are exposed to too much pressure, they can become damaged or break down. This can lead to costly repairs and even disasters for the people who depend on them.
Standards and Specifications for ERW Pipe
ERW (Electric Resistance Welded) pipes are manufactured using a welding process where the edges of the steel are heated to melting point, then fused together using electric current. The standards and specifications for ERW pipes are set by various organizations, such as ASTM, ASME, API, and JIS, among others.
ERW pipe specification charts provide a detailed overview of the different standards and specifications for electric resistance welded pipes. These charts typically include information such as the dimensions, materials, testing, and other requirements for various grades of ERW pipes, such as API 5L, ASTM A53,. By consulting an ERW Pipe Specification Chart, users can easily select the appropriate pipe for their specific application, ensuring its quality and suitability for use.
Inspection and Testing Methods for ERW Pipe
To ensure that ERW pipes perform as intended in various environments, they need to be subjected to a series of inspection and testing methods. These tests help detect minor manufacturing defects that may go undetected, or identify areas that are prone to breakage and leaks in operation.
For instance, hydrostatic testing which requires the pipe to be pressurized almost twice its recommended pressure load provides proof that the piping equipment can withstand extreme environmental conditions. However, it also takes the pipeline offline.
Magnetic particle inspection is another non-destructive method for ERW pipe that helps identify locations that are prone to surface cracking, cold laps, pores, and other linear flaws. The process uses a yoke magnet, strippable white paint, and a magnetic “ink” that contains powdered iron particles in a liquid base.
