Chalkboard Presentation

Pipefitting

Setting up a Pipe Butt Weld Using a Pipe Clamp

Presentation

Subject / Qualification: RQF Level 3 Pipefitting Lesson Topic: Setting up a Pipe Butt Weld with Correct Spacing

Aims and Objectives

General Aim Learners will understand how to properly set up a pipe butt weld using a pipe clamp (as shown in the picture) and a welding rod to ensure the correct spacing between the pipe ends for welding.

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Step by step instructions

Safety First: Ensure you are wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including safety gloves, safety glasses, and a welding mask. Make sure the work area is clear and that the pipe sections and tools are clean and ready for use. Set up the Pipe Clamp: Place the two pipe sections into the pipe clamp. Adjust the clamp to hold the pipes securely in place but do not tighten it fully yet. Use the Welding Rod to Measure the Gap: Take a welding rod and place it between the two pipe ends. The welding rod will act as a spacer to maintain the root gap (the distance between the two pipe ends). Ensure the gap is consistent along the entire circumference of the pipe.

Adjust the Pipe Alignment: Once the welding rod is in place and the gap is correct, adjust the clamp to align the pipes properly. Check both the horizontal and vertical alignment of the pipes. Tighten the clamp fully once the alignment is correct and the gap is consistent. Final Spacing Check: Before proceeding with welding, double-check the gap using the welding rod. The correct gap ensures proper penetration during welding, leading to a strong joint. Ready for Welding: Once the pipes are aligned and the correct gap is set, the joint is ready for welding. You will weld the pipes later under supervision, but today's focus is on setup and spacing.

Important tips

Root Gap: The gap between the pipe ends is crucial for ensuring proper weld penetration. You are using the welding rod as a spacer to maintain this gap consistently. Pipe Alignment: Misalignment can weaken the weld, so ensure that both pipes are perfectly aligned before tightening the clamp. Ask for Help: If you're unsure about the setup, feel free to ask your instructor for guidance.

Learning outcomes

Task

• Set up the pipe sections in the clamp using the steps above.
• Measure the gap with the welding rod and adjust the pipe clamp as needed.
• Call your instructor to check your setup before proceeding.

Objectives / Learning Outcomes By the end of this session, learners will be able to: Position two pipe sections in a pipe clamp for a butt weld. Use a welding rod to gauge and maintain correct spacing (gap) between the pipe ends. Adjust the pipe clamp to achieve proper alignment for welding. Understand the importance of root gap and pipe alignment in welding quality. Safely and accurately prepare the joint for welding.

Learning Outcomes:By the end of this task, you should feel confident in using a pipe clamp to align pipes and maintain the correct spacing using a welding rod.Understanding this process is key to achieving high-quality welds and strong joints.