Quality and Productivity Improvements in the Field Welding of High Strength Thin Walled Pipelines

Abstract

During the past 20 years the Australian Pipeline Industry has achieved significant economic improvements in the design and construction of natural gas transmission pipeline networks. This improvement is based on the use of thin walled high strength high pressure pipelines which serve relatively small markets separated by long distances from gas reserves.</jats:p> <jats:p>The Industry in conjunction with the WTIA/APIA Research Panel 7 and the Cooperative Research Centre for Materials Welding & Joining, have developed a research program with a number of key deliverables which aim to improve the overall economics of pipeline design, construction, inspection and maintenance activities by providing the level of assurance necessary to confidently build reliable pipelines using high strength linepipe including X80 grade.</jats:p> <jats:p>This paper details recent developments in the Australian Pipeline Industry and the coordinated research and development program to advance the economic use of high strength pipeline technology under Australian conditions.