What Is Pipe Beveling?
Pipe beveling is the process where an angle is formed between the edge end of a stainless steel pipe or tube and a plane perpendicular to the surface. The standard pipe bevel angle for welding is 37.5 degrees. Beveling a pipe or tube is most frequently used to prepare its ends for welding. Beveling is also commonly used for deburring cut ends for safety and aesthetic reasons.
Types of Pipe Beveling Ends
I-Type Butt Joint
I-Type Butt Joints—also referred to as a square butt joint—is a simple bevel fitting method for 1 to 6 mm thick pipes. These joints are easy and economical to maneuver but are not recommended for pipes that have thick walls.
Single-V Beveled End
Single-B beveled ends are the most commonly used beveled end style used in pipeline applications. This type of beveled end should be approximately 40 to 60 degrees and processed by a beveling machine.
Single-V beveled ends are more costly than square butt joints, but this style is much more durable. The primary disadvantage of this beveled end is that it’s easy to deform the angle.
Double-V Beveled End
Double-V beveled ends—also known as X-beveled ends—are designed based on single-V. It requires double-sided welding, so the material needs to be turned over and welded again after one side is welded.
This form of bevel end takes a longer preparation time than a single-V, but it’s used for pipes that have a thickness between 12 to 60 mm. However, double-V bevel ends require less filler metal material because the V-joints are much narrower than a single.
Single-U Beveled End
Single-U beveled ends are a one-sided welding joint. This style’s angle is less likely to be deformed in the process and requires less filler metal material than the double-V beveled end. However, due to its radian shape, it’s much more difficult to process than the other forms of bevel methods.
How To Bevel a Pipe
Hand Grinding
Hand grinding is the cheapest way to bevel pipe, but it’s also the most dangerous method compared to the other methods of pipe beveling. In addition to being hazardous, it’s incredibly time-consuming, and you risk inconsistent bevels.
Torch or Plasma Cutter
A torch or plasma cutter is another method of pipe beveling. It’s much quicker than hand grinding, but it does have its disadvantages. For example, the flat end of the pipe must be prepared by hand, so it cannot all be completed by torch or plasma cutter. In addition, this method of pipe beveling cannot be used on all materials, which affects production flexibility.
Portable Beveling Machine
Portable beveling machines come in many different configurations and are much safer than the hand grinding or torch or plasma method. The most significant advantage of portable beveling machines is that they can transport easily, making them productive and time-efficient. However, they are not sustainable for high production requirements.
Stationary Pipe Beveling Machine
Stationary pipe beveling machines are the most flexible method of beveling because it offers many options. With a combination of tools and attachments, you can create all different pipe bevel shapes.
Stationary beveling machines are manufactured to meet high production requirements in a safe working environment. They’re also easy to integrate with automated production lines, so operators don’t have to be on the machine all the time.
- Benefits of a stationary beveling machine include:
- Easy setup
- Low maintenance
- Lowest cost and quickest cycle time
- Promotes a safe working environment without creating a mess
- Offers a broad range of machining options
- Can operate several pipe or tube materials
- Does not require a skilled operator
- Ensures consistent pipe bevel quality
Pittsburgh Pipe Is America’s Pipe Supplier
Since 1977, Pittsburgh Pipe has supported America’s infrastructure through the manufacturing and distribution of superior quality steel pipe. We partner with some of the best leading utility contractors in the United States and supply them with the products and services they need for pipe welding. Contact us today to find a suitable pipe for your construction needs.
