Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SPECIFICATION FOR
OCTOBER 2015
CONTENTS
FOREWORD ............................................................................................................................................II
1. SCOPE..............................................................................................................................................4
2. REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................4
ENDNOTE ............................................................................................................................................. 29
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T/SP/PIP/1
FOREWORD
This Specification was approved by the Gas Transmission and Gas Distribution Policy Managers for
use by managers, engineers and supervisors throughout National Grid Gas.
National Grid Gas documents are revised, when necessary, by the issue of new editions. Users should
ensure that they are in possession of the latest edition by referring to the Document Library of safety
and engineering documents available on the company intranet.
Compliance with this safety and engineering document does not confer immunity from prosecution for
breach of statutory or other legal obligations.
BRIEF HISTORY
Formally Published as
TS-C4Gas-PIP0 v4.0 detailing all common June 2004
and C4Gas partner requirements
incorporating all of National Grids previous
line pipe requirements from specifications
such as LX1, LX4, LX5, SAW1 etc.
KEY CHANGES
Section Amendments
Entire specification Updated wording to comply with the definitions contained within BS EN
ISO3183.
Where applicable Clarified the wording relating to CVN and Drop weight test temperature to make
it clear that it is minimum design temp or 0 degrees whichever is lower.
M.4.4.8 Clarified the shear area requirement relating to CVN test samples to bring in
line with BS EN ISO3183.
M.4.6.2 Clarified the wording relating to the method of weld alignment checking as the
previous wording was unclear.
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Table 2 Removed repetition from table 2 (dimensional tolerances) and the bullet points
below that table.
Section M.9 Updated wording for the marking section to remove any ambiguities following
feedback from manufacturers.
DISCLAIMER
This safety and engineering document is provided for use by National Grid Gas and such of its
contractors as are obliged by the terms and conditions of their contracts to comply with this document.
Where this document is used by any other party it is the responsibility of that party to ensure that this
document is correctly applied.
In this document:
should: indicates best practice and is the preferred option. If an alternative method is used then a
suitable and sufficient risk assessment must be completed to show that the alternative method delivers
the same, or better, level of protection.
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1. SCOPE
This National Grid Gas Technical Specification* details the requirements for the manufacture of
seamless, submerged arc welded (SAW), and high frequency welded (HFW) steel line pipes in
size 21.3 mm to 1219 mm outside diameter. The linepipe shall in all respects be in accordance
with BS EN ISO 3183 including Annex M except where amended by the additional or
alternative requirements contained within this specification. The clauses referred to within this
specification relate directly to those in BS EN ISO 3183 Annex M.
The provisions of the latest edition of BS EN ISO 3183 shall be deemed to be included in this
specification except to the extent that they are modified herein. All modifications herein shall
take precedence over BS EN ISO 3183 including Annex M.
This specification covers steel linepipe for use with natural gas operating at pressures greater
than 7 barg. The limiting operating conditions for the pipe shall be determined with reference to
the design standard appropriate for the application concerned.
T/SP/DAT/6 provides standard pipe diameter size and wall thickness requirements when
ordering pipe for use in National Grid Gas pipelines and installations at an applicable design
factor.
2. REFERENCES
This specification makes references to the documents listed in Appendix A. Unless otherwise
specified, the latest edition of the documents applies, including all amendments.
3. M.1 GENERAL
Any additional clause number included in this specification that does not feature in BS EN ISO
3183 is a specific requirement of National Grid Gas, any additional requirement or replacement
to the existing clauses in BS EN ISO 3183 are identified in this specification.
M.1.1 Only PSL 2 pipe shall be supplied for National Grid orders.
M.1.2 The pipe supplied shall be in accordance with T/SP/DAT/6 which gives details of the
standard types of pipe, nominal diameter, nominal wall thickness and material grades required
for National Grid Gas use.
M.1.3 If more than 10% of the pipes on any one shift are rejected during the production and
require reprocessing, an immediate investigation shall be initiated to establish the cause and
National Grid Gas shall be informed.
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M.2.1 The use of jointers shall be permitted only with the prior approval of National Grid Gas
who shall review and agree the proposed girth welding process and welding/testing procedures
before bulk production commences.
5. M.3 MANUFACTURING
M.3.1.1 The Quality System of the pipe manufacturer shall be certified in accordance with BS
EN ISO 9001, by an Accredited Certification Body.
M.3.1.2 Each pipe production line shall be qualified by National Grid Gas prior to placement of
the order. The manufacturing procedure for pipe ≥ 48.6 mm outside diameter shall be verified
and/or as a minimum qualified in accordance with the requirements of National Grid Gas
specification T/SP/MPQ/1 referred to in clause 12 of this specification.
M.3.2.1, A list of all steel products, plate or coil manufacturers , which are to be used for starter
material in the production of the pipe, shall be submitted by the manufacturer to National Grid
Gas for review and acceptance. Any modification or change to this list shall be re-submitted to
National Grid Gas for review and agreement before bulk production commences.
M.3.3.2.3 Replace existing clause M.3.3.2.3 in BS EN ISO 3183 with; Strip end welds in SAWH
pipe orders for National Grid Gas are not acceptable and shall not be delivered.
M.3.3.2.4 The COW process method shall not be used to produce pipes for National Grid Gas.
M.3.3.2.5 SAWL pipes shall be manufactured with only one longitudinal weld seam.
M.3.3.2.6 The procedure for automatic and semi-automatic welding, as well as repair
procedures shall be qualified in accordance with BS EN ISO 15614-1 or an equivalent welding
standard that shall be agreed with National Grid Gas during the qualification process.
M.3.3.2.7 Welders and operators shall be qualified in accordance with BS EN ISO 9606-1, for
manual or semi-automatic welding and BS EN ISO 14732 for automatic welding.
M.3.3.2.8 For welded pipes, the qualification of welding procedures, welders and welding
machine operators shall be witnessed and approved by an accredited third-party organisation
and agreed with National Grid Gas.
M.3.3.2.9 Plate edges to be welded shall have a regular profile in appearance and shall be
scale and rust-free.
M.3.3.2.10 For welds carried out with automatic and semi-automatic welding procedures, the
equipment shall be able to maintain the pre-set parameters within the qualified ranges and to
signal any possible out-of-tolerance excursion.
The production of HFW pipe of grade L415 and above, and / or of wall thickness greater than
8.7 mm, shall include double-normalizing of the weld seam and heat affected zones, with
associated interim cooling. Where, for these grades and wall thicknesses, pipe production
equipment permits only single on–line normalizing of the weld seam and heat affected zones,
each pipe shall subsequently be subjected to a full body heat treatment, and procedures for
such heat treatment shall be submitted to National Grid Gas for approval prior to production.
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- Where, for grades of HFW pipe below L415, and/or of wall thickness less than or equal to 8.7
mm, the Seller proposes to perform a single normalizing heat treatment, additional qualification
testing shall be required as detailed in the National Grid Gas specification T/SP/MPQ/1.
The requirements of Annex C of BS EN ISO 3183 shall apply with the additional requirements
given below:
M.3.4.1 Repair of seam weld defects by welding is only permitted for SAW pipes. The weld
repair work shall be performed using an approved and qualified procedure. Full details relating
to the manufacturers proposed method statement for repair of defects by welding shall be
submitted to the National Grid Gas for review and agreement before bulk pipe production
commences.
M.3.4.2 Repairs to the welded seam in SAW pipe shall be limited to three repairs per pipe.
Repairs shall not be permitted within 230 mm of the ends of the pipe.
M.3.4.6 Where it is proposed to partially or totally repair an SAW seam weld stop/start defect
by using an automatic welding process, this shall be subject to qualification and approval
before use. This repair welding process/method shall only be used once per pipe.
M.3.4.7 In the case of cold expanded SAW pipe, repairs to the weld shall be carried out prior to
the cold expansion operation. In addition, each repaired pipe shall be hydrostatically tested in
accordance with M.4.3 after the repair.
Submerged-arc welded longitudinal seam (SAWL) pipe shall be mechanically cold expanded.
Equipment used for the expansion of the pipe shall be constructed and operated to ensure that
the weld or internal pipe surface is not marked by the equipment in a manner that produces
any sharp changes of section.
M.4.1.2 Unless otherwise agreed between National Grid and the manufacturer, the chemical
composition for pipes with wall thicknesses greater than 25 mm and up to 40 mm shall be in
accordance with Table M.1 of BS EN ISO 3183.
M.4.1.3 Prior to production, the manufacturer shall submit to National Grid Gas the intended
aim chemistry together with the expected ranges for each of the elements listed in Table M.1 of
BS EN ISO 3183.
M.4.1.4 For each pipe diameter, grade and wall thickness combination in a given order, single
aim chemistry shall be employed unless otherwise agreed.
M.4.1.5 The boron content of the steel as determined by heat and product analysis shall not
exceed 0.0005% by weight.
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M.4.1.6 Unless otherwise agreed between the manufacturer and National Grid Gas, the
molybdenum content shall be limited to 0.10% for all grades except L555ME, for which this
limitation shall be 0.25%.
M.4.1.7 The sulphur content for HFW pipe as determined by heat and product analysis shall
not exceed 0.008% by weight, unless otherwise agreed by National Grid Gas.
M.4.1.8 For L415 NE grade steel pipe the maximum CEIIW permitted is 0.43%. For L555ME,
grade steel pipe the maximum CEIIW permitted is 0.43% unless otherwise agreed by National
Grid Gas.
M.4.2.3 Unless otherwise agreed by National Grid Gas, the mechanical properties for pipes
with wall thicknesses greater than 25 mm and up to 40 mm shall be in accordance with Table
M.2 of BS EN ISO 3183.
M.4.2.4 For SAW pipes in the tensile test transverse to the weld, the fracture of the test
specimen shall occur in the base material.
M.4.4.3.For all pipe sizes and grades, the CVN impact testing shall be carried out at the
minimum design temperature or 0°C whichever is lower. The acceptance criteria are given in
Table 1 of this specification. These values shall apply to the welds in all pipe sizes and material
grades.
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Table 1 Requirements for the results of the impact test and for the drop weight tear (DWT) test
at the minimum design temperature
Charpy V-notch impact test (minimum impact energy in J) and requirements for the drop weight tear
(DWT) at the minimum design temperature
Impact test
DWT test
Minimum impact energy, KV, in J for outside diameter D ≤1219 mm
(1) Minimum Shear
and wall thicknesses T<40 mm
fracture area in %
Steel Pipe body
grade HAZ and (D in mm)
Pipe Body (pipe outside diameter D in mm) weld seam
The following the requirements replace the requirements of M.4.4.2 in BS EN ISO 3183
Annex M:-
M.4.4.4 The weld seam CVN toughness requirement for all pipe sizes and grades covered
by this specification is 47 J minimum average and 41 J minimum individual based on full-size
specimens tested at minimum design temperature, or 0°C whichever is lower.
M.4.4.5 CVN impact tests on the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) of the welded pipes (SAW) are
carried out for all grades. The notch shall be placed within 2 mm of the parent metal / filler
metal liaison zone. The acceptance criteria are the same as for the weld.
M.4.4.6 The impact requirements for pipes with diameter >1219 mm and/or wall thickness
>25 mm shall be specified by National Grid at the time of the order.
M.4.4.7 For all types of pipe within the size range of 168.3 mm to 323.9 mm outside diameter
inclusive. In addition to the requirements of M.4.4.3, parent material CVN impact testing shall
be performed on two-thirds size (6.7 mm wide) longitudinally orientated specimens, at a test
temperature of 15 °C below the minimum design temperature or - 15°C whichever is the
lower. The area of shear fracture and energy values shall be reported. For acceptance, each
of a set of three test specimens shall show not less than 50% shear area fracture when
assessed in accordance with the requirements of BS EN ISO 148-1.
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M.4.4.8 in addition to M.4.4.7 For all types of pipe ≤ 323.9 mm outside diameter, the
minimum average (set of three test pieces) shear fracture area for each test shall be at least
85 %, tested at minimum design temperature, or 0°C whichever is lower.
M.4.5.1 DWT tests shall be carried out for all pipes with D > 323.9 mm.
M.4.5.2 The DWT test requirements for pipes with diameter > 1219 mm and/or wall thickness
> 25 mm shall be specified by National Grid at the time of the order.
M.4.5.3 The DWT test shall be tested at minimum design temperature, or 0°C whichever is
lower.
Heat treatment of the weld is mandatory and this shall be verified by metallographic
examination and by hardness test in the weld area.
None of the hardness measurements shall show hardness > 250 HV10. The difference in
hardness between the parent metal and the HAZ shall be < 80 HV10.
The welding process shall incorporate permanent control of the alignment of the outside and
inside weld seams. The manufacturer shall identify how this is verified during production, for
example through metallography or radiography. The frequency of testing to guarantee the
conformity of the pipes shall be as per Table 6 item 17
M.4.6.3 For SAW pipes on the same test piece used for macrographic examinations Vickers
hardness tests HV10 shall be carried out.
The maximum allowed value for each single impression shall be:
The difference in hardness between the parent metal and the weld or HAZ shall be < 80 HV10
M.5.1.1 For welded pipes the tolerances for diameter and out-of-roundness shall be within the
tolerances specified in Table 2 of this specification.
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M.5.2.1 The wall thickness shall be within the tolerances given in Table 3 of this
specification
Welded Pipe:
5 < t 10 +10 % / -0.5 mm
10 < t < 15 +10 % / -5 %
15 ≤ t < 20 + 1.5 mm / -5 %
t 20 +1.5 mm / -1.0 mm
M.5.4.1 Geometric deviations from the normal cylindrical contour of the pipe which occur as
a result of the pipe manufacturing process (e.g. dents, flat spots, peaks) shall not exceed
the following limits:
M.5.4.1.1 The height perpendicular to the pipe surface in relation to the unaffected contour
shall not exceed 3mm.
M.5.4.1.2 One quarter of the outside diameter of the pipe for the length parallel to the pipe
surface in any direction.
M.5.4.1.3 When sharp bottom gouges are present: flat spots, peaks and cold formed dents
are not permitted.
The requirements of Annex C of BS EN ISO 3183 shall apply with the additional
requirements given below:
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M.5.6.1 Permitted imperfection types shall exclude scabs, slivers, sharp bottom gouges and
arc strikes. Imperfections in the pipe body which do not encroach on the specified minimum
wall thickness and are of a depth less than or equal to 12.5% of the nominal specified wall
thickness shall be classified as acceptable imperfections and treated in accordance with
M.5.6.3.
M.5.6.2 Surface defects such as scabs, slivers, sharp bottom gouges and arc strikes or other
imperfections involving a depth greater than 12.5% of the thickness specified, even if they do
not encroach on the specified minimum wall thickness, shall be considered as defects and
dressed out by grinding in accordance with M.5.6.3, M.5.6.4 and M.5.6.5 or treated in
accordance with M.5.6.6 as appropriate.
M.5.6.4 The removal of imperfections or defects by grinding shall be carried out by a qualified
operator and in accordance with the manufactures Quality Plan, this operation shall be
traceable. Surface grinding shall be carried out in such a way that the dressed area blends in
smoothly with the contour of the pipe and that the unacceptable imperfection or defect is
completely removed.
M.5.6.5 The removal of unacceptable imperfections or defects shall be verified by local visual
inspection and shall be confirmed by suitable NDT methods in accordance with M.7.5. The
NDT shall confirm that the pipe minimum specified wall thickness is not affected after dressing,
or that the depth of any acceptable imperfection remaining does not encroach upon the
specified minimum wall thickness.
M.5.6.6 Pipe containing non-dressable surface or SAW seam weld defects shall be treated as
follows;
a) Weld defects in the seam weld of SAW pipes in the non-cold expanded condition shall be
repaired by welding in accordance with M.3.4.
or
b) The section of the pipe containing the surface defect shall be cut off, within the limits of the
requirement on minimum pipe length. The section of pipe containing the defective seam weld
shall be cut off, within the limits of the requirement on minimum pipe length.
or
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Random pipe lengths shall be delivered within the tolerances of Table 4 of this specification.
M.5.8.1 The entire bevel shall be machined, and the root face shall not be brought into
tolerance by filing or grinding.
M.5.8.2 For pipes with nominal wall thickness less than or equal to 19 mm the requirement
for pipe end bevelling is shown in figure M.5.8.2 below, unless otherwise indicated at the time
of order.
M.5.8.3 For pipes with nominal wall thickness greater than 19 mm the requirement for pipe
end bevelling is shown in figure M.5.8.3 below, unless otherwise indicated at the time of
order.
+5o +0o
30 o 20 o o
-0o -5
t=T
t=T
+1
-0
+5o
30 o o
7.0
-0
Figure M.5.8.2 Weld end preparation for pipe of Figure M.5.8.3 Weld end preparation for pipe of
nominal wall thickness less than or equal to 19 mm nominal wall thickness greater than 19 mm.
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M.5.8.4 Dimensional testing, the method of dimensional testing employed shall be capable of
meeting the tolerances given in the Table 5 below. (Note this is not the tolerance for the
actual pipe but for the equipment used to check the pipe dimensions.)
Attribute Tolerance
a- Inside and outside diameter ± 0.1mm
b- Out of Roundness for Pipe ends ± 0.1mm
c- Out of Roundness for Pipe body ± 0.5mm
d- Local irregularity in profile (flats & peaks) ± 0.1mm
e- Pipe end squareness ± 1.0mm
f- Pipe straightness ± 5.0mm
g- Wall thickness ± 0.1mm
h- Pipe length ± 10.0mm
M.5.8.5 For out of roundness on pipe except at the ends, the maximum outside diameter
shall not be more than 0.5% larger, and the minimum outside diameter shall not be more than
0.5% smaller than the specified outside diameter in the data sheet.
M.5.8.6 For HFW pipe the height (depth) of any local irregularity (including any offset of plate
edges) shall not be greater than 1 mm for pipes of wall thickness less than or equal to 9.5
mm, or 1.5 mm for pipes of greater than 9.5 mm wall thickness.
M.5.8.7 For SAW pipe the height (depth) of any local irregularity shall not exceed 1.5 mm for
pipes of outside diameter less than or equal to 914 mm, and 2 mm for pipes greater than 914
mm outside diameter.
M.5.8.8 The final dimensional testing procedure shall be submitted to National Grid Gas for
approval during the qualification process
Replace Table M.6 of BS EN ISO 3183 with the maximum height of the inside and outside
weld seam shall not exceed 3 mm whatever the thickness of the pipe.
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M.6.3.1 The outside weld seam of SAW pipes shall be ground flush with a height tolerance of
+0.5/- 0 mm for a mimimum distance of 200 mm measured longitudinally from each pipe end.
M.6.3.2 The inside weld seam of SAW pipes shall be ground flush with a height tolerance of
+0.5/- 0 mm for a minimum distance of 50mm measured longitudinally from each pipe end.
M.6.4.1 The angle at the toe between the pipe surface and the reinforcement of the SAW weld
seam shall be in no case less than:
M.6.4.2 For SAW pipe, the minimum interpenetration of the welds shall be equal to 20% of the
nominal wall thickness or 2 mm, whichever is the lesser.
M.6.4.3 The tolerance of misalignment of weld beads is 3 mm maximum for all wall
thicknesses.
M.6.4.4 For SAW pipes, the radiographic test is considered as an additional means of checking
of misalignment of the outside and inside weld seams. Verification of this should be included
when interpreting the results.
9. M.7 INSPECTION
M.7.1.1. The manufacturer shall provide a 3.1 inspection certificate in accordance with BS EN
ISO 10204.
Table 6 in this specification replaces Table 18 and Table M.7 of BS EN ISO 3183:
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6 The standard CVN Impact Test of Seamless Test specimens shall be taken from a
the pipe body for pipe with OD pipe taken from each test unit, or from
≤ 114.3 mm. On relevant size each batch of 200 pipes if there are more
samples and sample orientation. than 200 pipes in a test unit. Where there
are more than 200 pipes in a test unit
and the sampling by batches of 200
leaves a remainder, tests shall be made
on one pipe from the remainder.
7 The standard CVN Impact Test of Seamless, Test specimens shall be taken from two
(1)
the pipe body for pipe with OD HFW , SAW pipes from each test unit. Where there
> 114.3 mm. are more than 50 pipes in a test unit,
On relevant size samples and tests shall be made on one pipe from
sample orientation. each group or part group of 25 pipes.
8 CVN Impact Test of the pipe body Seamless, Test specimens shall be taken from two
(1)
for pipe with 168.3 mm ≤ OD HFW pipes from each test unit. Where there
≤ 323.9 mm. are more than 50 pipes in a test unit,
Three, two-thirds size (6.7 mm tests shall be made on one pipe from
wide) samples with a longitudinal each group or part group of 25 pipes
sample orientation (refer to clause
M 4.4.7)
(1) (2)
9 CVN Impact Test of the HFW , SAW Test specimens shall be taken from two
longitudinal or helical seam weld pipes from each test unit. Where there
for pipe with OD > 114.3 mm are more than 50 pipes in a test unit,
Carried out at lowest design tests shall be made on one pipe from
temperature on relevant size each group or part group of 25 pipes
samples and sample orientation
10 The standard CVN Impact Test of SAW Test specimens shall be taken from two
the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) for pipes from each test unit. Where there
all pipe. are more than 50 pipes in a test unit,
On relevant size samples and tests shall be made on one pipe from
sample orientation each group or part group of 25 pipes.
11 DWT Test of the pipe body for Seamless, Test specimens shall be taken from two
1
pipe with OD > 323.9 mm. HFW , SAW pipes from each test unit. Where there
are more than 50 pipes in a test unit,
tests shall be made on one pipe from
each group or part group of 25 pipes.
12 Vickers Hardness Testing of the HFW, SAW Any hard spot exceeding 50 mm (2.0 in)
pipe body and longitudinal or in any direction
helical seam weld and HAZ of
welded pipe.
(2)
13 Guided-bend testing of the SAW Once per test unit of not more than 50
longitudinal or helical seam weld lengths of pipe with the same cold-
of welded pipe. expansion ratio.
14 Guided-bend testing of the SAW least once per 50 coil/plate end welds
coil/plate from pipe with the same cold-expansion
end weld of welded pipe ratio
15 Flattening test of welded pipe HFW As shown in Figure 6 of BS EN ISO 3183
16 Hydrostatic testing Seamless, Each pipe
HFW, SAW
17 Macrographic and Vickers SAW At least once per operating shift per
Hardness Testing of the welding line plus whenever changes of
longitudinal or helical seam weld. grade, specified outside diameter or
specified wall thickness are made
18 Metallographic and (Vickers HFW excluding At least once per operating shift plus
hardness testing) of the full body whenever changes of grade, specified
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M.7.4.1.1 Tensile tests on pipe bodies of D ≥ 508.0 mm shall be carried out perpendicular to
the pipe axis.
M.7.4.2.1 CVN-notch impact tests shall be carried out in accordance with EN ISO 148-1 KV2
(V-notch specimen striker radius 2 mm).
M.7.4.2.2 The minimum average and individual energy values for three test specimens shall
be as given in Table 1. The number, orientation and location of CVN test pieces per sample
shall be in accordance with Table M.8
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M.7.4.2.3 If any specimen shows defective machining or develops flaws, it may be discarded
and another specimen prepared and tested.
M.7.4.2.4 Additional requirements for Charpy V-notch impact test pieces transverse to the weld
for HFW pipes:
M.7.4.2.5.1 Location of the fusion weld line shall be verified for every test piece by
metallographic etching. The etching of the specimen shall be performed on minimum two
opposite sides of the specimen. Before testing, specimens shall be witnessed and checked by
the National Grid Gas representative.
M.7.4.2.5.2 The centre of curvature of the notch base of the Charpy V test specimen shall be
at ± 0.1 mm maximum of the weld fusion line. See figure M.7.4.2.5.2 below.
M.7.4.2.5.3 In the case of angular fusion line, the centre of curvature of the notch base shall be
cross the fusion line in an area between the third and the two third of the width of the test
specimen. See figure M.7.4.2.5.3 below:
1 1
Centerline of notch
W/3
Figure M.7.4.2.5.2
Figure A Figure M.7.4.2.5.3
Figure B
M.7.4.2.6 For all types of pipe within the size range of 168.3 mm to 323.9 mm outside diameter
inclusive:
M.7.4.2.6.1 Parent material CVN impact testing shall be performed on two-thirds size (6.7 mm
wide) longitudinally orientated specimens at a test temperature 15 °C below the minimum
design temperature or - 15°C whichever is the lower.
M.7.4.2.6.2 Three, two-thirds size (6.7 mm wide) longitudinal CVN impact specimens shall be
machined from each sample, with the notch normal to the pipe surface. Where wall thickness
precludes the extraction of two-thirds size CVN specimens, half size specimens shall be used
or, failing this, full wall thickness shall be used to form the width of the specimen. Test
specimens shall be machined from the test block so as to remove any effects produced by
flame-cutting and shearing operations used during preparation of the test block from the pipe.
M.7.4.2.6.3 The sample shall be extracted with its longitudinal axis along a line at a point 90°
round the pipe from the weld. The sample shall be large enough to provide three CVN
specimens positioned end to end.
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M.7.4.2.6.4 If one of the test specimens fails to reach the specified minimum shear area then,
at the manufacturer’s option, 10% of the test unit will be re-tested (one sample per pipe). If all
re-test specimens exhibit not less than 50% shear area fracture at a test temperature 15 °C
below the minimum design temperature or - 15°C whichever is the lower,then the remainder of
the test unit shall be accepted.
M.7.4.2.6.5 If any of the re-test specimens fail to exhibit the minimum requirement then, at the
manufacturer’s option, the remainder of the pipes may be re-tested individually.
M.7.4.3.1 Unless otherwise agreed the test pressure is limited to 500 bar.
M.7.4.3.2 Hydrostatic test pressure shall not lead to a risk of pipe deformation.
M.7.4.3.3 The requirements for hydrostatic testing are summarised in Table 7 below:
M.7.4.3.4 The pressure value against test duration shall be recorded for every pipe. The
method of calculation for determining the necessary hydrostatic test pressure depends on
the test equipment. Consequently the manufacturer shall state which of the following
methods (A or B) has been used.
Method A: In cases where the seal is made on the outside or inside diameter of the pipe the
following formula shall apply:
20xSxTmin
P=
D
Where
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Method B: In the case of sealing against the end face of the pipe by means of a ram, a
compressive longitudinal stress is produced. To take this into account, the following formula
shall apply:
PR x AR
10S -
Ap
P1=
D A1
-
2Tmin Ap
Where
All macrographic examinations shall be Vickers hardness tests HV10 and shall be carried out
in accordance with BS EN ISO 6507.
The DWT test shall be performed at 0°C or at the minimum design temperature which ever is
the lower. The testing shall be carried out in accordance with BS EN 10274.
M.7.5.3 Timing of NDT operationsNon-destructive tests of the welds of pipes of all sizes,
including repairs and the pipe ends, shall be carried out after hydrostatic testing. For
seamless pipes, the timing of non-destructive testing is left to the discretion of the
manufacturer.
M.7.5.6.2 In addition to the requirements of this clause only wire-type image quality
indicators shall be used.
M.7.5.6.4 Replace Item d, of BS EN ISO 3183, Only isolated undercuts of a maximum depth
of 0.4 mm and a length less than 10 mm are acceptable, providing that there are not more
than 2 such undercuts in any 300mm of the weld length and all such undercuts are dressed
out
M.7.5.7.1The result of all the calibrations of the automatic control installation shall be
recorded.
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M.7.5.7.1.1 Inspection of the pipe ends shall always be carried out on a width of 50 mm, any
defect echo greater than the reference echo shall require a cut-off.
M.7.5.7.1.2 Suspect areas identified during automatic ultrasonic inspection of the weld seam
shall be further examined. First by manual ultrasonic inspection (BS EN ISO10893-11) and if
indications are not confirmed then also by X-radiography.
M.7.5.7.1.3 The suspect area is accepted if both RT and manual UT do not confirm the
presence of a defect.
M.7.5.7.2.1 When testing of seamless pipe BS EN ISO 10893-10 U3/C acceptance level is
required.
M.7.5.7.2.2 Use of flux leakage test to BS EN ISO 10893-5 is permitted with an acceptance
level F3.
M.7.5.7.2.3 To monitor wall thickness and check for laminar imperfections, all seamless
pipes D ≥ 168.3 mm shall be examined full length according to BS EN ISO 10893-8
M.7.5.7.3.1 When testing of HFW pipe BS EN ISO 10893-10 U2/C acceptance level is
required.
M.7.5.7.3.2 Flux leakage test shall be carried out in addition to the ultrasonic testing. The flux
leakage testing shall be carried out in accordance with BS EN ISO 10893-3 to acceptance
level F3. This test need not be carried out for pipes D ≥ 114,3 mm, if the ultrasonic testing
installation qualified witnessed by National Grid Gas ensures continuous verification of the
minimum thickness in the weld zone after removal of the excess weld metal (i.e. weld flash)
from the internal and external pipe surfaces.
M.7.5.7.3.3 Inspection of the weld shall include a -10mm-wide zone on each side of the
fusion line.
M.7.5.7.3.4 The UT calibration pipe design shall be completed with eccentric notches at
+10/-10 mm besides the weld, both ID and OD, resulting in a total of 6 notches (all of them 5
% of the pipe wall thickness). End reflectors (through wall holes phi 3) shall be foreseen to
check the coverage at the pipe ends. The as-built dimensions and positions of the reflectors
shall be documented.
M.7.5.7.3.5 During initial sensitivity setting, the probe offsets shall be statically optimized as
to maximize the amplitude of the central ID and OD notch. After this the gain is set to trigger
the alarm gate.After this an additional +6 dB is added.
It shall then be verified during dynamic calibration that the 6 notches trigger the alarm gate. It
shall also be verified during calibration that the end reflectors are detected with all probes.
M.7.5.7.3.6 The axial speed shall be physically verified and documented prior to and after
each command/delivery. It shall be lower than the maximum value specified in the
procedure.
M.7.5.7.3.7 The reference signals for verification of coupling quality shall not be saturated.
The design and identification of the calibration block, completed with the as-built
dimensions of the reflectors.
M.7.5.7.3.9.1 Ultrasonic testing of the pipe body shall always be carried out, either by the
pipe manufacturer or by the coil manufacturer. In the case that the test is carried out by the
coil manufacturer, a certificate shall be provided stating that this inspection has been carried
out in accordance with BS EN ISO 10893-8 or BS EN ISO 10893-9
M.7.5.7.3.9.2 The acceptance level for pipe (or plate/coil strip) body, and pipe (or plate/coil
strip) edge inspection shall be U1 of BS EN ISO 10893-9.
M.7.5.7.3.9.4 Laminar imperfections on the strip edges/areas adjacent to the weld seam,
Ultrasonic testing of the strip edges/areas adjacent to the weld seam shall always be carried
out by the pipe manufacturer.
M.7.5.7.4.1 Ultrasonic testing of the pipe body shall always be carried out, either by the pipe
manufacturer or by the coil / plate manufacturer. In the case that the test is carried out by the
coil / plate manufacturer, a certificate shall provide stating that this inspection has been
carried out in accordance with BS EN ISO 10893-8 or BS EN ISO 10893-9
M.7.5.7.4.2 The lamination check shall be carried out with a minimum coverage of 50% for
plate and 20% for coil.
M.7.5.7.4.3 The inspection and acceptance level for pipe (or plate / coil strip) body, and pipe
(or plate / coil strip) edge inspection shall be U1 of BS EN ISO 10893-8 or BS EN ISO
10893-9.
M.7.5.7.4.4 Ultrasonic testing of the strip edges/areas adjacent to the weld seam shall
always be carried out by the pipe manufacturer. The test shall be carried out on the edges to
be welded over a width of at least 20 mm.
M.7.5.7.5 NDT of the weld seam at the pipe ends/repaired areas of SAW pipe.
M.7.5.7.5.3 The part of the weld seam located at the pipe ends, and which cannot be tested
by automatic ultrasonic equipment, shall be tested by radiography or an approved manual
ultrasonic technique.
M.7.5.7.5.4 Whatever test method the pipe manufacturer has chosen; the ends shall be free
of defects as defined in section M.7.5.6.4 of BS EN ISO 3183.
M.7.5.7.5.5 In addition, for SAW pipe, MPI in accordance with BS EN ISO 17638 shall be
used to examine the last 50 mm of the seam weld at each end of the pipe, and for the
surface inspection of specific areas repaired or reclaimed. The procedure shall be submitted
to National Grid Gas for approval prior to production.
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M.7.5.7.5.6 For both SAWL and SAWH pipe, over an axial distance of 50 mm from each
end, the weld shall be free from slag inclusions and other significant defects, including
porosity. The standard for defining significant defects will be set and monitored using a
reference X-radiograph(s) specified by National Grid Gas at the manufacturer mill.
M.7.6 Retesting
M.7.6.1 If any of the production mechanical tests fail to meet the specified requirements, the
reason for failure shall be investigated.
M.7.6.2 Before performing the retests the manufacturer shall give to the National Grid Gas
representative documented information about the origin and the extent of the non-conformity.
M.7.6.3 Any tests carried out by the manufacturer to determine the extent of the non-
conformity, shall not be considered as retests.
M.7.6.4 In the event of test failures arising during retesting, the manufacturermay elect to test
individually all of the remaining pipes in the test unit represented by the failed test. Subject to
the prior approval of the National Grid Gas representative, individual pipes that meet the
specified acceptance criteria may be accepted.
M.7.7 Weldability
M.7.7.1 All pipe supplied to National Grid Gas shall be suitable for field welding using
appropriate welding processes and procedures. When required by National Grid Gas the
manufacturer shall demonstrate and ensure the weldability of the pipes, in accordance with
this specification, using typical pipeline girth weld procedures under simulated or normal
operational site conditions.
M.7.7.2 The need for and requirements for weldability testing shall be established by
reference to the National Grid specification T/SP/MPQ/1.
M.7.7.3 The agreement of National Grid is required when in a given pipe order, the
manufacturer proposes to supply more than one target (or aim) chemistry variation for pipe of
the same diameter, grade and wall thickness combination. Significant variations in pipe target
chemistry can affect the weldability of a pipe. A proposal from the manufacturer to use more
than one target chemistry will usually result in the requirement for additional weld procedure
qualification.
M.7.7.4 The pipes selected for weldability testing shall be selected from the upper quartile of
the chemistry (CEV) range.
M8.1.1 All identification markings shall be stencilled using a weatherproof paint on the
outside surface of each pipe for HFW & seamless and internal surface for SAW.
M.8.1.2 The stencilled identification markings used on each pipe shall be as follows:
M.8.1.3 If required by National Grid a visible band to indicate the pipe mid-point should be
applied.
M.8.1.4 For pipes D ≤ 60.3 mm, these may be supplied to National Grid in bundles however
every pipe shall be individually marked with a clear, unique and weatherproof identification,
including information to enable positive traceability to certification.
M.8.1.5 Where pipes are dispatched as a bundle all pipes in that bundle shall be from the
same heat, the tag, strap, or clip used to tie the bundle shall contain the following
information:
M.8.2.1 All pipes shall be permanently marked at both ends in accordance with
T/SP/DAT/29. This can either be either on the pipe external wall or the weld bevel.
M.8.2.2 On each pipe as a minimum National Grid only requires the pipe number or a unique
identifier to enable positive traceability to certification, the manufacturer shall guarantee that
the die stamping remains perfectly legible after shot blasting.
M.8.2.3 Where permanent marking is on the external pipe wall a low stress dot matrix
marking in accordance with T/SP/DAT/29, shall be positioned 50 mm clockwise from the
seam weld and only within the first 150mm from the pipe end.
M.8.2.4 Where permanent marking is on the weld bevel it shall be in accordance with
T/SP/DAT/29 and shall be positioned 50 mm clockwise from the seam weld.
M.8.2.5 In all cases, the area to be stamped shall be clean and free from paint, other coating
and rust. Any original coating shall be replaced after stamping.
M.9.1.1 The manufacturer is required to submit to National Grid Gas a specific Quality Plan
and scheduling at least twenty working days before each production run and for each item.
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M.9.1.2 The manufacturer shall also provide the calculation of hydrostatic pressure test for all
items.
M.9.1.3 Any clarifications and/or deviation requests shall be given at the time of tender to be
considered by National Grid Gas.
M.9.2.1 As soon as pipe production commences information detailing the chemistry of each
heat used for each item, shall be sent to National Grid
M.9.2.2 The Quality Plan, the product ranges, the procedures or manufacturing orders may
be inspected by the National Grid Gas representative at any time.
M.9.4.1 The seller shall submit, upon request by National Grid Gas or its representative a
quality report to include statistical analysis of pipe parameters in particular dimensional data
(i.e. diameter, out-of roundness, wall thickness), and production details (i.e. state of the
repairs and rejections rates and types specifying the origin and the nature of the defects
discovered).
IGEM-TD-1 Edition 5 Supplement 1 – Handling, transport and storage of steel pipe, bends
and fittings shall apply to every order.
The manufacturer shall be qualified by National Grid Gas in accordance with the National
Grid Gas Qualification procedure (see also National Grid Gas’s specific requirements).
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© National Grid Gas plc 2015- All Rights Reserved
T/SP/PIP/1
- For all orders, the following information shall be supplied by the manufacture to National
Grid Gas:
a) Details of the Manufacturing Procedure Qualification that covers the pipe to be supplied,
e.g. date of qualification and any National Grid Gas references.
b) Details of any differences between the qualified Manufacturing Procedure and that to be
used for the pipe to be supplied.
c) Details of any weldability tests relevant to the pipe to be supplied which have been carried
out since the Manufacturing Procedure was qualified.
d) If the Manufacturing Procedure has not been qualified, details of the time required to
qualify the Manufacturing Procedure.
The requirements for manufacturing procedure qualification testing are detailed in the
National Grid Gas specification T/SP/MPQ/1.
14. VARIANTS
Where a manufacturer proposes to deviate from this specification it shall be subject to formal
review via the Deviation Procedure T/PM/GR/2.
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APPENDIX A – REFERENCES
This Specification makes reference to the documents listed below British Standards
BS EN ISO 3183 - Petroleum and natural gas industries — Steel pipe for pipeline
transportation systems
BS EN ISO 10893 - 6 - Radiographic testing of the weld seam of welded steel tubes for
the detection of imperfections (ISO 10893-6:2011)
BS EN ISO 10893 - 8 - Automated ultrasonic testing of seamless and welded steel tubes
for the detection of laminar imperfections (ISO 10893-8:2011)
T/SP/DAT/6 - Standard sizes of carbon and carbon manganese steel pipe for
operating pressures greater than 7 bar
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© National Grid Gas plc 2015- All Rights Reserved
T/SP/PIP/1
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T/SP/PIP/1
APPENDIX B – DEFINITIONS
The definitions applying to this specification are given in Section 4 and 5 of BS EN ISO 3183
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© National Grid Gas plc 2015- All Rights Reserved
T/SP/PIP/1
ENDNOTE
Comments
Comments and queries regarding the technical content of this safety and engineering document should
be directed to:
SSR Directorate
National Grid Gas
National Grid House
Warwick Technology Park
Gallows Hill
WARWICK
CV34 6DA
Buying documents
Contractors and other users external to National Grid Gas should direct their requests for further copies
of National Grid Gas safety and engineering documents to the department or group responsible for the
initial issue of their contract documentation.
Copyright National Grid Gas plc 2015 ©, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may by
reproduced in any material form (including photocopying and restoring in any medium or electronic
means and whether or not transiently or incidentally) without the written permission of National Grid plc
except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988
29