PIPELINE WELDING AND INSPECTION METHODS - A STATE-OF-THE-ART REPORT.

Metallurgical advances in microalloying and controlled rolling have allowed the production of high strength thick-wall pipe with excellent low temperature toughness properties together with reductions in carbon content, which have meant that line pipe is currently welded without cracking more readily than it used to be. This paper examines the variables which determine the probability of successful welding of large diameter pipelines. It also surveys the methods used for inspection and quality control and outlines the technical advances in pipeline construction in the light of present regulations.