Field welding API 5L line pipe in grades X42 or X52 are required for natural gas extraction and transmission, as well as oil and chemical processing and water transmission. For this thin-wall pipe, typically 0.5 inches or less, many welding procedures require downhill welding using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) process and cellulosic (EXX10) electrodes. Located in Williamsport, Pa., between two of the state’s biggest hydraulic fracturing regions, Pennsylvannia College of Technology (PCT) teaches welding pipe downhill as part of its Welding & Fabrication Engineering Technology program. This article incorporates information from the school’s curriculum and passes on advice instructors provide to students.
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