TransCanada and
BP Exploration worked with Cranfield University in the
United Kingdom to develop the new, mechanized, multi-wire,
gas metal arc welding system for pipeline applications.
Tandem gas metal arc welding has two welding wires running
through one weld torch; dual tandem pipe welding has two
tandem torches on one mechanized welding carriage. Cranfield
University contracted RMS Welding Systems to develop the
prototype dual tandem pipe welding equipment.
The field trial in Edmonton showed promising results.
"TransCanada and BP are evaluating the data collected
during the field trial, but the test clearly demonstrated
the potential of the welding technique," says Dave Dorling,
engineering specialist, Pipe Engineering.
By using this new technology, we can achieve cost savings
by reducing welding equipment, side-boom tractors, welders,
helpers and heavy equipment operators.
In addition, the dual-tandem torches performed well
in temperatures as low as -35° Celsius, providing
stable, twin-arc welding at travel speeds just over
50 inches per minute. However, not all of the welds
were defect free so more testing and process development
is required before we can use the technology in the
field.
For more information on this technology, please contact
Dave
Dorling at 403.948-8147.
