Chapter 1 – Introduction to pipe

fabrication

About pipe fabrication

Pipelines are used to transport fluids, including vapours, gases, slurries and powders
which flow through pipes at various pressures and temperatures. The transmission of
these materials invariably subjects the pipe to intense stresses and strains and this
demands the highest possible performance from the pipe.
All pipework must be designed and fabricated in a way that ensures the safety of plant
operators, the plant, the public and the environment.

The fabricator is responsible for the quality of the pipework and pipe fabrication must
be carried out in accordance with all relevant standards and specifications. One faulty
weld could lead to damage costing millions of dollars, personal injury and in serious
cases even death. Welded pipe systems demand the highest degree of excellence in
materials and quality of work.
Because high standards are required, the cost of pipework is extremely high. Typical
costs for pipework in a manufacturing plant are shown in Table 1.1.

Field labour costs 47%

Material costs 23%

Design engineering costs 20%

Table 1.1: Fabrication costs

It is essential that pipework is fabricated by suitably trained and competent

tradespersons.

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