TIP 0402-26

Guidelines for welding and inspection of stainless alloy piping

This Technical Information Paper outlines considerations for fitup, welding and inspection of circumferential butt welds made during shop spooling and field installation of stainless alloy pipe and fittings; both thin wall (gauge) and thick wall (schedule). The stainless alloys included are austenitic stainless steels, duplex stainless steels, and nickel base alloys. It is assumed that: * the weld root will not normally be accessible for direct visual inspection or repair * all circumferential butt welds will be made using filler metal * a solution heat treatment will not be performed after welding. The goal is to provide guidance in obtaining welds appropriate for the intended service. The level of discussion is intended to provide background for evaluating or writing specifications. More detail about the subjects covered in this TIP is provided by the publications in the “References” section. References 1-3 provide useful general background. Safety precautions Adequate safety and industrial hygiene procedures must be in place for the cutting, welding, erection, cleaning, and inspection of stainless alloy pipe. The details of these procedures are beyond the scope of this TIP. In most cases jurisdictional or company policies will be in force. Anyone involved in welding or inspection of stainless alloy piping should make themselves familiar with the safety procedures in force on the job site.