DDJ Pipe Jointing Process

Since 1942, The Bayou Companies has been providing welding services from its New Iberia facility. Recently, Bayou announced its new subsidiary, Delta Double Jointing (DDJ), as a dedicated unit providing expert welding capabilities utilizing high-quality processes.

1. DDJ uses high speed facing machines. These machines are mounted in a fixed position and the pipe is indexed to the machine.

2. The pipe must be preheated according to project specifications prior to welding. After it is preheated, it is rolled in to the fit-up station. Preheat temperature is verified.

3. The line-up clamp is inserted from the end. Once engaged, the line-up clamp is not released until completion of the first pass of the pipe. The pipes are drawn together and aligned using a hydraulic system.

4. After completion of the tit-up, the sub-arc head is lowered on the pipe and welding begins. The pipe rotates while the welding head remains fixed. The welding bead is grinded and a good tie-in is achieved.

5. Pipe is then indexed to the second welding station where it undergoes a welding process very similar to the first station, without the fit-up. A visual inspection for obvious defects of the cap is made during the second welding process.

6. The pipe is then indexed to the next station for ID welding. A submerged arc welding machine, mounted on a lance, controlled by an operator using a camera and remote controls, is inserted to the weld area. After completion of the weld, the flux is cleaned with a metal chipping hammer, swept in a pan, and removed from the pipe. A visual inspection is again performed to identify any obvious defects.


*Employees of DDJ are all members of both the United States and Canada United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada. In addition, employees belong to the International Union of Engineers.