Socket Weld vs Butt Weld Ends
End connection mistakes cause dimensional and NDE mismatches. State SW or BW with the pipe schedule.
Side-by-side
| Topic | Socket weld (SW) | Butt weld (BW) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical size | Small bore | Broader size range |
| Weld | Fillet into socket | Butt joint to pipe |
| NDE | Often VT; project-dependent | RT/UT more common on process specs |
| Alignment | Socket gap practice matters | Weld prep and schedule match |
| RFQ cue | SW Sch 40/80 + size | BW Sch + size + facing prep |
RFQ tip
Include pipe material and schedule next to every SW/BW line item.