Homopolar welding development and economics

Homopolar welding (HPW) is a single-shot solid-state resistance forge welding process that is under development as a single-station pipe welding method. Weld quality issues have been addressed by a Joint Industry Program and the process economics favor commercial use. Fielding of a HPW system is dependent on process tooling design, the speed of the process, and the economics of the process. The HPW weld speed of three seconds makes weld advance times of 12 to 20 minutes possible and will result in a large reduction in overall pipeline construction costs. In addition, HPW is an inherently controllable process, so the weld power pulse will be tailorable to meet a variety of weld and material requirements.