
ERW Pipe Manufacturing Process
ERW pipes are manufactured starting from steel coils, that are at first uncoiled, cut, processed, welded, and tested as shown in the picture below.
The most common welding technique used for oil and gas pipes is the so-called “high-frequency induction technology” (ERW-HFI), consisting in the application of an induction current on the outer surface of the pipe able to generate a robust seam weld and join the two sides of the steel coil very tightly.
Tips: ASTM A53 covers seamless and welded steel pipe with nominal wall thickness. The surface condition is usually black and hot-dipped galvanized. ASTM A53 is produced mainly for pressure and mechanical applications, and is also used for transport of steam, water, gas line pipes.
ASTM A53 Grade B is the material under the American steel pipe standard, API 5L Gr.B is also the American standard material, A53 GR.B ERW refers to the electric resistance welded steel pipe of A53 GR.B; API 5L GR.B Welded refers to the material Welded steel pipe of API 5L GR.B.
ERW pipe manufacturing process advantages
1. Efficient Production: The ERW pipe production process features a high degree of automation, resulting in rapid production, significantly improving efficiency and meeting large-scale market demand.
2. High Welding Quality: Advanced welding techniques and strict quality control ensure high-quality, reliable welds, effectively safeguarding the overall performance of the steel pipe.
3. Price Advantage: Compared to some steel pipe manufacturing processes, the ERW pipe manufacturing process offers lower costs, making ERW pipes of the same size and material relatively affordable. This price advantage is particularly pronounced for thin-walled, small-diameter pipes and low- and medium-pressure applications.
4. Unnoticeable Welds: The ERW pipe process results in a smaller heat-affected zone, resulting in relatively narrow and low welds. Internal and external welds are typically removed after welding, making welds less noticeable. This results in a smoother inner pipe wall, reducing fluid resistance within the pipe. For liquid or gas pipeline systems, this improves transportation efficiency and reduces energy consumption.
Read more: API 5L ERW Pipe Specification