What type of welding is required for pipes that are 2 inches or more in diameter?

Butt welds are the preferred method for joining pipes that are 2 inches or more in diameter due to their ability to provide a strong, continuous connection along the entire joint of the pipe. This type of welding involves aligning the ends of the pipes to be joined and welding them together along the edge, creating a seamless fusion that maximizes strength and integrity. This is particularly important in high-pressure applications, as a strong joint minimizes the risk of leaks and failure under pressure.

In contrast, while fillet welds are effective for joining materials at right angles, they may not provide the same level of strength needed for high-pressure piping systems. MIG and TIG welding methods, although they have their own advantages in terms of ease and precision, are generally not the standard choice for pipes of this diameter when a robust and leak-proof joint is necessary for high-pressure applications. Thus, for pipes that need to withstand high pressures, butt welds are the optimal choice.