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WHAT IS THE MINIMUM DISTANCE BETWEEN WELDS🤔
👉The minimum distance between welds depends on the type of weld, the materials being joined, the applicable code or standard, and the service conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, fatigue). However, here’s a general guideline:
🔧 General Rule of Thumb
For butt welds on piping and pressure vessels:
Minimum distance between adjacent circumferential welds (center to center):
🔹 1.5 × the pipe wall thickness, or
🔹 Not less than 25 mm (1 inch)
Whichever is greater
🛠️ Applicable Standards
Here’s what some codes say:
1. ASME B31.3 (Process Piping)
• Paragraph 328.5.4:
Welds on adjacent piping joints should be separated by at least one pipe diameter, but not less than 25 mm, unless a closer spacing is justified.
2. ASME Section VIII (Pressure Vessels)
• For pressure parts, weld spacing should ensure no overlap of heat-affected zones (HAZ).
• If welds are too close, stress concentration and metallurgical issues may arise.
3. API 650 (Storage Tanks)
• For shell courses, minimum distance is 100 mm (4 inches) between horizontal and vertical welds.
❗Why Spacing Matters:
• Prevents overlapping HAZ that weakens the material.
• Allows proper NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) access.
• Avoids residual stress accumulation and cracking.
📌 In Summary:
Condition Minimum Weld Spacing
General piping 1.5× wall thickness or 25 mm
Per ASME B31.3 ≥ 1× pipe diameter or ≥ 25 mm
API 650 (Tank). ≥ 100 mm (4 inch)
If unavoidable Engineering review & stress
analysis may be required

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