SW weld Gap

Posted by: TechPen

SW weld Gap - 01/14/18 10:26 AM

I have a client who has asked to see weld gaps in SW piping. I have a data table for this connected to my spec. I have set the piping rules to Both SW and Buttweld. the problem I have is when I add SW items the gap changes from 1.6MM to 0MM. Has anyone seen this before and know how to overcome.
I'm using Windows 10 and Cadworks 2017R1.
Thanks
Posted by: dgorsman

Re: SW weld Gap - 01/15/18 09:46 AM

Because of the way the enhanced mode now works with socketwelds, they no longer provide the setback like they used to. The concept might have been "off" in the first place, as that's not exactly a weld gap in the traditional sense.

You might want to put in a service request, but in the meantime you'll have to fiddle with the end type engagements to get the desired offsets on connected pipe. For the sake of your checkers' sanity you might want to consider leaving it alone entirely - add a global note to reference client welding standards and only provide overall distances to branches and turns. That way the shop is free to handle things the way they need to (they get a *little* annoyed when they get drawings that are over-detailed and difficult to fabricate).
Posted by: Rocker

Re: SW weld Gap - 01/16/18 12:05 PM

I concur with DGorsman. The "weldgap" was never intended to be an actual weldgap, but more of a material setback. The symbol was just a convenient ways to an end. In the end, the welder is just putting a fillet weld where the pipe and fitting meet. As mentioned, it is now this way due to the enhanced mode. Perhaps some education is in order.

If you're super concerned about proper cut lengths, you could adjust the PENGLEN value on the SW3000 end table and shorten the default 12.7mm by 1.6mm. The weld symbol will still come in at 0. However, for small bore piping, you're likely better off just giving the overall dimensions and letting the shop do their thing.