How to determine whether SSAW steel pipes need maintenance or replacement?

To determine whether SSAW Steel Pipes (spiral submerged arc welded pipes) need maintenance or replacement, a comprehensive evaluation can be conducted from the following aspects:

1. Appearance inspection

surface appearance:

Check whether there are obvious cracks, rust, wear or deformation on the surface of the steel pipe.

Observe whether the coating is intact and whether there is any detachment or damage.

Weld seam condition:

The weld seam is the weak link of the steel pipe, and it should be carefully inspected for defects such as cracks, lack of fusion, and slag inclusion at the weld seam.

Non destructive testing methods such as ultrasonic testing and X-ray testing can be used to inspect the quality of welds.

2. Wall thickness measurement

Use professional wall thickness measurement tools to regularly measure the wall thickness of steel pipes.

Based on the measurement results, determine whether the wall thickness of the steel pipe meets the standard of nominal wall thickness. If the wall thickness loss reaches more than 10% of the nominal wall thickness, or if the local thinning reaches more than 50% of the nominal wall thickness, it may be necessary to consider replacing the steel pipe.

3. Leak detection

If SSAW steel pipes are used for fluid transportation, regular leak testing should be conducted.

Pressure testing, gas detection and other methods can be used to determine whether there is a leakage phenomenon in the steel pipe.

According to relevant standards (such as GB 50235-1997), if the leakage rate of the pipeline exceeds the specified value (such as 10%), it is necessary to stop using and replace the steel pipe.

4. Performance evaluation

Regularly test the mechanical properties and chemical composition of steel pipes to ensure that their performance meets relevant standards.

If it is found that the performance indicators of the steel pipe have significantly decreased, such as reduced strength, decreased toughness, etc., it may be necessary to consider replacing the steel pipe.

5. Use environmental assessment

Consider the usage environment of steel pipes, such as temperature, pressure, fluid properties, etc.

If used in harsh environments such as high temperature, high pressure, corrosive fluids, etc., it may accelerate the corrosion and wear of steel pipes, requiring more frequent inspection and maintenance.

6. Historical Records and Archive Management

Establish maintenance records for steel pipes, documenting each inspection, cleaning, repair, and replacement.

By analyzing historical records, the usage status and wear trend of steel pipes can be understood, providing a basis for future maintenance or replacement decisions.

In summary, determining whether SSAW steel pipes need to be repaired or replaced requires comprehensive consideration of multiple aspects, including appearance inspection, wall thickness measurement, leak detection, performance evaluation, environmental assessment, and historical record and archive management. Through comprehensive evaluation and testing, the safe operation and extended service life of steel pipes can be ensured.

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Specializing in large diameter ultra-thick wall submerged arc welded steel pipe
and spiral submerged arc welded steel pipe

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