J. RAY McDERMOTT AUTOMATIC WELDING SYSTEM (JAWS)

The J.Ray McDermott Automatic Welding System (JAWS) is a third generation system combining state-of-the-art technologies in welding, servo systems and computerized controls. Originally designed in the mid-70s, first used by JRM in 1982, and upgraded in 1993, the system is used in offshore lay barge operations in conjunction with conventional pipe facing machines and internal lineup clamps

Successful project worldwide have proven the durable system’s ability to produce high quality welds at excellent rates of production. JAWS capability strengthens JRM’s place as a world leader in the pipeline industry.

QUALITY WITH VARIOUS NDT REQUIREMENTS

JAWS welds have met acceptance requirements ranging from API 1104, Section 6 to modified version of API 1104, Appendix A, involving various NDT methods, including radiography, manual ultrasonic testing, Automatic Ultrasonic Testing (AUT), and a combination of radiography and AUT.

JAWS BENEFITS

Pulsed Arc (PGMAW) process offers improved penetration and reduces the potential for incomplete sidewall fusion
Less weld spatter reduces porosity and increases deposition efficiency
Six welding torches at each station provide exceptional production
Programmed welding parameters eliminate operator adjustments
Easily maintained and reliable with very little equipment downtime

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

JAWS development and support is centered at the Automatic Welding Facility in Morgan City, Louisiana, U.S.A. JAWS equipment is assembled, tested and refurbished at this location. Welding procedure development, procedure qualification and welder qualification can also be handled at this facility. Nondestructive testing (radiography and ultrasonic) as well as mechanical testing are performed in Morgan City. Capabilities include macro sections, macro photography, hardness testing, tensiles, bends and nick breaks.

The upgraded version of the JAWS was put into service in Spring, 1995 on the critical Shell Mars pipeline project. Installed on JRM’s Derrick/Lay Barge DB 28, the system successfully laid the specified X70 grade pipe. NDT was performed for the first time offshore using AUT equipment, and radiography was also used to verify weld quality.

In 1996 the system was used in Malaysia on the Esso Production Lawit project. This 30” x .787” wall thickness line was laid in record time. Production peaked at 329 joints in one day - a world record for 30” single-joint production.

With additional enhancements, JAWS again set a world record in 1999 on the Premier Yetagun pipeline in Myanmar. The project was completed far ahead of schedule with peak production reaching 424 single joints in one day on 24” x .688” wall thickness pipe.

Two more records were set on the West Natuna Transportation System (WNTS) project in Indonesia in 2000. Production on the 28” x .642” trunkline peaked at 6.95km (382 60 ft. joints) in one day. Then, production hit a record 492 (40-ft.) joints of 22” x .508” pipe on June 4, 2000.