Round HSS splice 1

[jonastp]

Hello guys,

We need to do a splice on a steel pipe pile, usually we do a full penetration groove weld with a backing plate, but since the pile is drilled, we cannot have anything inside the pile (otherwise the hammer could be stuck on the backing plate), and gouging is not an option either. Now we are asked to provide a splice providing the full strength of the HSS... any of you have an idea? Is it possible to do a full-penetration without backing plate and access only from one side?

BTW the tubes are 16'' x 0.500''

Thank you very much in advance!!

Jonathan

 

[metengr]

Are you referring to a full penetration butt weld for the existing end of the steel pile? If so, you can certainly do this by using a single vee-groove bevel. For an open root butt weld I prefer a GTAW (TIG) root and hot pass followed by SMAW to fill the remainder of the vee-groove.

If you go this route I would qualify a WPS, and even consider RT (x-ray) to ensure a quality butt weld joint before further driving.

 

[jonastp]

Thanks for the reply, the splice is to extend the pile (under power lines, so the maximum length is limited). Good to know that a single V-groove could work, I'll check with our welding engineer, but GTAW will not be an option in the field, only SMAW.

 

[Tmoose]

How much misalignment between the joined pieces can the hammer tolerate without getting stuck?

I'm picturing there is bound to be some of this -

http://pypesexhaust.com/images/F84360979.jpg

 

[metengr]

Not necessarily. Watch start and stop sequence and you will be fine. Butt welding 1/2 wall pipe is done routinely.

 

[hokie66]

I would not expect a clean, unobstructed interior without being able to access the back side of the weld. Perhaps a sleeve splice would be better.