Production of X80 (Grade 550) Linepipe by Electric Resistance Welding

The Electric Resistance Welding (ERW) process is a highly efficient means of producing linepipe. Historically, this process has been applied to grades X70 (Grade 483) and less. However, recent upgrades to IPSCO’s 24 Inch ERW pipe mill have facilitated the production of X80 (Grade 550) material. This paper briefly describes the development trials and mill upgrades and highlights the properties achieved during the commercial production of 10 km of 24″ outside diameter × 0.250″ wall thickness X80 material with particular emphasis on the weld properties.Copyright © 2008 by ASME