1. Q: What is a "piling" pipe?
A: A heavy-walled, often large-diameter pipe driven into the ground to provide foundational support for structures.
2. Q: What is the main advantage of using welded pipe over seamless for large diameters?
A: Cost and availability. Producing seamless pipes in very large diameters is extremely difficult and expensive, while welded pipes (SAW, Spiral) are efficiently made in diameters over 24 inches.
3. Q: What is "beveling" on a pipe end?
A: Cutting the pipe end at an angle (typically 37.5°) to prepare it for butt-welding to another pipe or fitting.
4. Q: What is a "plain end" vs. "threaded and coupled" pipe?
A: Plain End (PE) pipes have square-cut ends for welding or slip-on fittings. Threaded and Coupled (T&C) pipes have threaded ends and are joined with a threaded coupling.
5. Q: What key factor should be considered when selecting between ERW and seamless pipe for a pressure application?
A: For moderate pressures and diameters, modern quality ERW (especially HFI - High Frequency Induction) is often sufficient and more economical. For extremely high pressures, cyclic fatigue services, or where absolute integrity is critical (e.g., high-pressure steam headers), seamless may be specified despite higher cost. The governing code (ASME B31.1, B31.3) and project specifications dictate the final choice.
