Pipe flanges, fittings, and valves have different interface types: butt weld versus socket weld, for example.
Welding can be divided into two types: socket welding and butt welding.
What is socket weld?
A socket weld flange joins pipe fittings such as reducers, tees, and elbows with pipes.
In socket weld joints, the pipe is permanently attached to the recessed region by a socket weld flange.
In this way, socketweld pipe fittings are connected.
When butt welding, two pieces of metal are placed end-to-end without overlapping and Socket welded together.
Butt joints must have the surfaces of the workpieces to be joined on the same plane, and the weld metal must stay within those planes.
What is Butt Weld
Differences Between Socket Welding vs Butt Welding
– It does not require bevel ends
– Easy to install and maintain
– Low cost
– Low welder skill required.
Cons of SocketWeld
– Not suitable for pipes of large diameters
– Leakage risk is present
– Volumetric NDE examination not feasible
– Low strength joint
Pros of Butt Weld
– Volumetric NDE examination is possible
– High strength
– Leakage risk is almost non-existent
– Appropriate for higher thicknesses
Cons of Butt Weld
– Not suitable for faying surfaces
– It may require fixturing
– High welder skill is necessary
Conclusion
As a result, socket welding Fittings are more expensive and have a higher pressure level than butt welding Fittings.
When welding technology is required and the construction requirements are met, welding is an alternative.