Phone:  218-281-6911

Fax:  218-281-7255

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American Fusion Welding's Technicians Assurance of Quality and Confidence in performing Butt Fusion on HDPE Pipe is as follows:

1. Correct heater plate temperatures.
   Heater plate thermometers are tested for accuracy with a pyrometer or crayon indicators (melt sticks) at least once per day.

2. Adequate fusion pressures.
   A fusion interfacial pressure of manufactures recommendations is followed and monitored for every fused joint.

3. Severe ambient temperature conditions
   Extreme heat, cold or wind will alter heat and cooling times.  AFW Technicians take time to ensure that fusion time and procedures compensate for these conditions to produce a correct fusion joint.  Care is used to ensure that the fusion procedure is protected from rain, snow or other conditions of excessive moisture.

4. Double check fusion technique.
   Contact pressures and heat/cooling cycles may vary dramatically according to pipe size and wall thickness.  We use a visual inspection to qualify welds along with an offered destructive test such as the bend back test per pipe with manufactures recommendations to formulate correct pressures and heat/cool cycle times.

5. Use adequate cooling times.
   An important parameter in the fusion procedure is adequate cooling time.  All joints remain stationary with the proper fusion pressure being applied at least until the fusion can be touched without pain.  On thick-walled pipes, additional cooling time may be necessary.  Different pipe manufacturers recommendations are followed.

6. Dirt, oil and debris.
   Any of these substances on the heater plate, pipe ends, facer or anywhere else that contacts the fusion surface can cause improper fusion.  Even airborne invisible pollutants can contaminate a heater plate.  AFW Technicians ensure that all equipment and pipe ends are clean.