Screening for Selective Seam Weld Corrosion and Long Seam Anomalies in ERW Pipe Using ILI Data. a Case Study

Abstract High-Frequency Electric Resistance Welded pipe (HF-ERW) has been around for more than 40 years with a reputation of high toughness and fewer seam weld defects than Low Frequency (LF) ERW pre-1970s. However, both HF-ERW pre-1980s and LF-ERW pre-1970s are susceptible, under the right conditions, to develop selective seam weld corrosion (SSWC) and hook cracks due to a high content of sulfur in the pre-1980s steel. This paper describes a supplemental screening process that operators can perform as part of their due diligence. The process uses ultrasonic detection data and ILI vendor display software to identify and prioritize potential longitudinal seam weld anomalies, specifically focusing on SSWC to differentiate it from general corrosion located across or adjacent to the longitudinal seam weld. The process ranks anomalies to help operators prioritize integrity management efforts and resources.