Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing Process: Complete Guide from Steel Coil to Finished PipeIntroduction

Introduction

Spiral welded pipe, also known as SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welded) pipe, is widely used in large-diameter pipeline projects due to its flexible production capability, strong weld performance, and cost efficiency.

Unlike seamless pipes or longitudinal welded pipes, spiral welded pipes are manufactured by forming steel coils into a cylindrical shape and welding the spiral seam using submerged arc welding technology.

The manufacturing process includes steel coil inspection, edge preparation, spiral forming, double submerged arc welding, pipe cutting, dimensional inspection, and non-destructive testing.

For pipeline projects requiring large diameters, long lengths, and reliable performance, understanding the spiral welded pipe manufacturing process helps buyers select the right pipe supplier and ensure project quality.

What Is a Spiral Welded Pipe?

A spiral welded pipe is a steel pipe manufactured from steel coils that are continuously formed into a spiral shape and welded along the helical seam.

The production method is also called SSAW (Spiral Submerged Arc Welding).

Unlike LSAW pipes , which use steel plates and longitudinal welding, SSAW pipes use steel coils as raw materials, allowing manufacturers to produce pipes with various diameters by adjusting the forming angle.

Basic Manufacturing Features:

Common SSAW Pipe Size Range

Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing Process Step by Step

The manufacturing process of spiral welded pipe consists of several key stages to ensure dimensional accuracy, weld strength, and long-term service performance.

1. Steel Coil Selection and Inspection

The production process begins with selecting qualified steel coils according to project requirements and applicable standards.

For pipeline applications, steel coils usually need to meet standards such as:

• API 5L
• ASTM
• EN
• GB/T

Strict raw material inspection helps prevent defects during forming and welding processes.

2. Steel Coil Edge Milling and Preparation

Before spiral forming, the edges of the steel coil are prepared to ensure stable welding quality.

3. Spiral Forming Process

Spiral forming is the key process that gives SSAW pipe its unique structure.

Advantages of Spiral Forming:

• Flexible diameter production
• Efficient steel utilization
• Suitable for large diameter pipes
• Reduced material waste

This makes SSAW pipes especially suitable for long-distance transmission pipelines.

4. Double Submerged Arc Welding (DSAW)

After spiral forming, the pipe seam is welded using Double Submerged Arc Welding (DSAW) technology.

The welding process includes:

Internal Welding

The inside seam is welded first to provide deep penetration and structural strength.

External Welding

The outside seam is welded afterward to complete the joint and improve weld integrity.

Why Use Submerged Arc Welding?

Advantages include:

• High welding efficiency
• Stable weld quality
• Deep penetration
• Low welding defects
• Excellent mechanical performance

The finished spiral weld is inspected through advanced testing methods to ensure reliability.

5. Pipe Cutting and End Preparation

After welding, the continuously produced pipe is cut into required lengths.

6. Pipe Expansion and Straightening

For high-quality SSAW pipes, manufacturers may perform mechanical expansion and straightening after welding.

Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing Standards

Spiral welded pipes are manufactured according to different international standards depending on application requirements.

Choosing the correct standard ensures compatibility with project specifications and operating conditions.

Advantages of Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing Process

1. Large Diameter Production Capability
2. High Material Utilization
3. Flexible Production Range

Applications of Spiral Welded Pipes

Oil & Gas Transmission

API 5L spiral welded pipes are commonly selected for pipeline transportation projects.

Water Supply

Large diameter SSAW pipes provide efficient solutions for high-volume water transportation.

• Municipal water pipeline

Construction

• Piling
• Structural support

Spiral Welded Pipe Manufacturing at Cortecsteel

Advanced SSAW Pipe Production Capability

Cortecsteel manufactures spiral welded pipes using advanced SSAW production technology.

Strict Quality Control System

Customized Spiral Welded Pipe Solutions

Cortecsteel provides spiral welded pipe solutions for oil and gas, water transmission, construction, and industrial projects worldwide.

FAQ

Q1:What tests are performed during spiral welded pipe production?

Common tests include UT, RT, hydrostatic testing, and dimensional inspection.

Q2:Are spiral welded pipes suitable for oil and gas pipelines?

Yes. API 5L SSAW pipes are widely used in oil and gas transmission systems because of their large diameter capability and reliable weld performance.

Q3:What welding method is used for spiral welded pipes?

Most spiral welded pipes use Double Submerged Arc Welding (DSAW), including internal and external welding.