Pluto
Lng

Lonestar automated welding was sub-contracted to perform automated welding at Woodside’s Pluto LNG plant by The Ausclad Group. Automated Welding was required for two components of Ausclad’s welding scope including the main trunkline and the bulk separator (slug catcher).

Specialised welding labour was introduced for the project through Lonestar which was used in conjunction with the existing welders through the Ausclad Group.

The Ausclad group provided pipe movements & end preparation of 36 & 42 inch pipe. A tig bead & hot pass was performed using an external and internal clamp for both pipe sizes. Lonestar Automated Welding was responsible for Auto Flux Cored Filling and Cap welding passes to weld specification ASME and AS2885.

Welding bead width and welding heat input where closely monitored by Woodside & Ausclad as part of the Quality management process. In order for this to be compliant, it was essential to reduce operator’s welding parameter control to avoid excessive parameter adjustment during welding. A failsafe feature supplied through Lonestar Automated Welding Systems allowed every weld on every join to be monitored every second of welding throughout project.