Socket weld is a permanent pipe joining technique. It is used to join pipes and its componants. Socket weld is a very reliable welding technique due to high leakage integrity and structural strength. In this blog post we will discuss all the important things related to socket weld.
Table of Contents
What is a Socket Weld?
Socket weld normally used to weld various pipe componants together. Pipe components such as elbows, reducers, and tees can be joined permanently by using socket weld.
Two pipes can be joined by using socket weld. In case of two pipes having different diameter then the smaller diameter pipe is inserted in the larger diameter pipe and welding is performed on the periphery of the larger diameter pipes.
Another key advantage is that no end preparation is needed in socket welding, the process is simple and fast. Normally, socket welding is used for small-diameter pipes, usually up to 4 inches.
How Does Socket Weld Work?
As we knows that socket socket welding is the name given for welding fittings with pipes inside them. These pipe consists of recessed sockets where the pipes are inserted before welding. A little space is given maintained between the end of the pipe and the bottom of the socket to allow the pipe to grow/expand by the welding heat.
The gap between two pipes are normally kept 1/16 inches and the pipe is placed in position, fillet welding is performed at the location where the pipe diameter meets the socket.
Socket welding is a high quality welding technique which gives effective, leak-proof, high-pressure piping and pipeline configurations for fluid transport.
Types of Socket Weld Pipe Fittings
Diffrent types of pipe fittings are used in the piping industry. Here, I will describe all the important types of socket weld pipe fittings.
SW Full Couplings: This type of pipe fitting is used to join two pipes. Ends of the pipe are threaded to connect both pipe.
Socket Weld Half Couplings: As the name suggests pipes are threaded from one end only.
SW Reducing coupling: If two pipes have diffrent diameter than SW Reducing Coupling is used to join two pipes.
SW equal tees: This kind of pipe fitting is used to creat branch lines of similar diameter.
Socket welded reducing tees: This types of fitting is used to make branch connection of reduced size.
SW elbows: Like normal pipe fittings. 90-degree and 45-degree elbows are used.
SW unions: It is used to join two pipes having similar diameter.
Sockolet: It is usee when pipes have different diameter.
Socket Weld Cross: It is used when two pipes cross each other. The joint is welded with socket weld.
SW flanges: It used to weld pipe flanges.
Socket weld caps: It is only used to seal the ends of the pipe.
Some technical things are considered while purchasing pipe fittings from the market. Pipe diameter, pressure rating and pipe class are needed to purchase a specific pipe fitting.
Characteristics of Socket Weld Fittings
Socket weld fittings are the most reliable fittings. They have high pressure rating. This type of fitting cab be used for industrial applications.
This type of fittings normally used to transport hazardous liquid and gases safely. There are very low possibility of leakage. ASME and ASTM codes are considered while making socket weld fittings.
Socket welding pipe fittings can be categories based on the type of materials.
Advantages of Socket Weld Pipe Fittings
- It gives best welding surface.
- Its leakage free.
- Very low maintenance.
- High-pressure ratings.
- It can transport hydrocarbons to a long distance.
- it is highly durable.
Disadvantages:
- High chances of corrosion in case of poor material.
- Expansion gaps are difficult to clean.
Final Thought
Socket weld is a high quality weld and normally used for pipe fittings in industrial applications.It is very suitable to carry high pressure hydrocarbons in a pipeline.