The bell and spigot lap weld joint has a proven performance history in steel pipe. It is an economical method for restraining longitudinal thrust in buried pipes. Lap weld joints can be configured for welding inside only, outside only, or both when design conditions dictate. A single full fillet weld is adequate for restraint of longitudinal thrust forces due to internal pressure. Conditions involving other longitudinal forces such as from thermal stress, Poisson’s ratio of hoop stress, or bending stress require additional consideration. Consult an AMERICAN representative when presented with such conditions.
