Pipe fusion welding is used for many applications across a wide range of industries. At Plastic Design, Inc., we offer a variety of plastic welding services, including numerous pipe fusion welding capabilities. Our state-of-the-art 30,000-square-foot facility combined with over 40 years of experience grants us the resources and capabilities to perform top-quality welds while meeting strict industry standards.
There are many different methods of pipe fusion welding, each of which has its own unique process and specific uses. To determine which option is best for your application, it is important to understand the distinctions between each method.
What is Pipe Fusion Welding?
Pipe fusion welding is an umbrella term that includes several types of methods and procedures. In general, pipe fusion welding involves the process of joining two plastic pipes through the use of heat and various types of fusion welding machines. During the process, heat is applied to prepared pipe ends, which are then pushed together with enough force to create a permanent bond.
Pipe fusion welding is compatible with a wide range of materials, including high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and more. When selecting the proper pipe fusion method, it is important to consider factors such as the application, materials, and required bond strength.
Methods of Pipe Fusion Welding
There are several methods of pipe fusion welding, each of which uses different equipment and procedures to complete the weld. These methods include:
Electrofusion Welding
Electrofusion welding is a type of resistive implant welding used to connect pipes. Fittings implanted with metal coils are placed around joints to prepare them for welding. An electric current travels through the coils, heating and melting the plastic pipe in the process to form a joint. Electrofusion is one of the most efficient welding methods, using various built-in electric heating components and special fittings to create a consistent weld. It’s particularly useful in applications requiring on-site welding or welds in tight spaces.
Butt Fusion Welding
Butt fusion welding is one of the most popular fusion welding methods for joining PP and HDPE pipes, either for attaching fittings to them or to form a continuous run. In butt fusion welding, two ends of the pipes undergo heating and welding through the use of a butt welding machine. Pipe ends are pressed against a heating plate for a specific period of time, and then they are pushed against each other at a designated pressure. HDPE and PP are ideal materials for this process, as they form joints that do not leak.
Saddle Fusion Welding
Saddle or sidewall fusion welding is used for connecting saddles to the sides of pipes. The process works by heating the exterior surface of the pipe and the compatible surface of the fitting. A saddle fusion welding machine is used to help facilitate proper heating, force control, and alignment for an accurate weld. Once joined, the weld area is cooled and the weld is completed.
Socket Fusion Welding
When working with injection-molded fittings, socket fusion welding is a common choice. A socket fusion tool, which contains a metal socket heater and a spigot fitting, aligns and heats the appropriate locations of each component to fuse them in a single joining operation. While the metal socket heater heats the exterior of the pipe, the spigot fitting heats the interior of the injection-molded fitting. Once heated for the proper amount of time, the heated tooling is removed, and the fitting and pipe are pushed together to form a bond.
Pipe Fusion Welding from Plastic Design, Inc.
There are many methods of pipe fusion welding, and it’s important to choose the right one for your application. At Plastic Design, Inc. our team of plastic welding experts can help you determine which method is best for your needs. As a trusted provider of plastic welding services, we ensure high-quality welds on even the most intricate joint lines. To learn more about our pipe fusion welding capabilities, or to get started on your plastic welding solution, request a quote or contact us today.
Comments are closed