SOCKET WELD JOINT

SOCKET WELD JOINTS

Socket Welding or Socket Weld Joints are a inevitable part of a piping project. The concept of socket weld joint configuration is done as per code,  eg:-ASME B31.3

Though the type of welding done is a socket weld joint is fillet weld, type of weld is also normally mentioned as socket weld (SW). 

The fit-up requirement required for a socket weld joint is mentioned in ASME B 31.3 as below.

The gap of 1.5mm is to accommodate the thermal expansion that may occur during welding and with the flow of process fluid. We can ensure the gap at the time of fitup only. So inspection during fitup is the important inspection point in the case of socket weld joint.

The fit-up requirement for socket weld flanges (as per ASME B31.3) are as below. 

The fillet weld size requirement as per ASME B31.3 is as below. 

Figure 328.5.2A shows the acceptable profile of fillet welds. 

Please note that the size of fillet weld in a socket weld joint can be achieved by multi-run welding. Though the normal tendency of a welder is to complete the fillet size with one run,  it is not to be allowed because of the below two reasons. 

1. The weaving done in a single run fillet weld will be more than 2.5times (depends on the weaving permitted in WPS) of the filler/electrode diameter. 

2. Due to improper closing point welding leak occurs. Multi-layer welding will avoid such incidents. It is a good practice to do multi run welding with starting point at different points on the weld joint. 

The gap before welding can be randomly inspected by radiography (after welding). Random radiography requirements, to ensure the fitup gap, are seen in some client specifications.

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