How to check SSAW pipe quality from appearance?

SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welding) steel pipe is a type of welded steel pipe made from strip steel coils. These coils are extruded at regular temperatures and welded using an automatic double-wire, double-sided submerged arc welding process. SSAW steel pipes are commonly used in fluid transportation pipelines, metal structures, and steel pipe piles. Appearance inspection is a simple yet essential method for assessing SSAW pipe quality, primarily identifying surface defects and dimensional deviations.

Appearance Quality Inspection Methods

- Surface Inspection:

The production and processing quality of SSAW steel pipes can often be judged by their surface appearance. A reputable manufacturer will ensure meticulous production and minimal surface friction defects. In contrast, substandard SSAW pipes might have an oval cross-section due to cost-saving measures in raw material usage, resulting in reduced tensile strength and failure to meet rebar specifications.

High-quality SSAW pipes feature uniform composition, with cold shearing machines ensuring clean and tidy internal threads at the cutting head. Poor-quality pipes, using inferior raw materials, often have uneven internal threads and lack metallic luster. Additionally, such pipes may have burrs at the head and tail due to insufficient cutting.

- Sound Test:

Tapping the steel pipe and listening for a brittle, clear sound can indicate a new, factory-produced spiral welded pipe rather than a recycled one.

- Tool-Assisted Inspection:

Tools like standard templates, gauges, and magnifying glasses are used to inspect the weld surface. Surface defects can suggest potential internal weld defects.

While the appearance is an important quality indicator, it alone does not determine the pipe's overall quality. SSAW steel pipes must also meet strict physical and strength property standards. Therefore, it is essential to obtain inspection certificates and other relevant documentation from the sales department when purchasing these pipes.