WHAT IS THE MINIMUM DISTANCE BETWEEN WELDS🤔 👉The minimum distance between welds depends on the type of weld, the materials being joined, the applicable code or standard, and the service conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, fatigue). However, here’s a general guideline: 🔧 General Rule of Thumb For butt welds on piping and pressure vessels: Minimum distance between adjacent circumferential welds (center to center): 🔹 1.5 × the pipe wall thickness, or 🔹 Not less than 25 mm (1 inch) Whichever is greater 🛠️ Applicable Standards Here’s what some codes say: 1. ASME B31.3 (Process Piping) • Paragraph 328.5.4: Welds on adjacent piping joints should be separated by at least one pipe diameter, but not less than 25 mm, unless a closer spacing is justified. 2. ASME Section VIII (Pressure Vessels) • For pressure parts, weld spacing should ensure no overlap of heat-affected zones (HAZ). • If welds are too close, stress concentration and metallurgical issues may arise. 3. API 650 (Storage Tanks) • For shell courses, minimum distance is 100 mm (4 inches) between horizontal and vertical welds. ❗Why Spacing Matters: • Prevents overlapping HAZ that weakens the material. • Allows proper NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) access. • Avoids residual stress accumulation and cracking. 📌 In Summary: Condition Minimum Weld Spacing General piping 1.5× wall thickness or 25 mm Per ASME B31.3 ≥ 1× pipe diameter or ≥ 25 mm API 650 (Tank). ≥ 100 mm (4 inch) If unavoidable Engineering review & stress analysis may be required