Orbital Welding FAQ

1. Why would you butt weld an assembly?

Welded assemblies are used when a system needs clean, leak-tight performance. With a smooth ID, there is no entrapment and better purge-ability. The use of MicroFit^® weld components allows for a tighter foot-print and dimensional alignment.

2. Can Swagelok orbital weld the assembly for us?

Yes, we start with an initial design review, where we help identify components, make 3D CAD drawings, review documentation/certification requirements and provide a quotation. Once an order is placed, we build, leak test and ship the assembly—all with our Limited Lifetime Warranty.

3. What is the biggest reason customers come to you to do their Orbital Welding?

There is always a certain amount of risk when customers do their own welding. Many manifolds involve complex welds, many components have long deliveries—both adding to the overall cost. Customers prefer to mitigate that risk by having us do that work. See our capabilities here.

4. What sizes and materials can you orbital weld?

We work in sizes 1/8 - 4 inch OD in various wall thicknesses. The most common material requests are 304, 316, 321 and 347 Stainless Steel. We can orbital weld special materials including Alloy 400 and C-276.

5. What certifications do your technicians hold?

Swagelok Custom Solutions technicians are Factory certified to ASME section IX. This is critical in the development of the weld schedules as well as meeting the stringent requirements of weld acceptance.

6. What types of leak testing do you perform?

All orbital welded systems are inboard Helium tested. This is a process where vacuum is pulled through the assembly and Helium is introduced at connection points where leaks could occur. We also offer outboard Helium leak checking where 15 psi Helium is pressurized into the assembly and then detected from the outside by the detector.

7. Can I purchase or lease an Orbital Welder?

Yes, we offer both of these options. If you will be doing welding regularly, purchasing your own welder makes a lot of sense. If you have a project that will require welding but do not think it will be regular work, we recommend you consult with your Sales Representative to evaluate if it would be more cost-effective to have our skilled technicians perform the welding.

8. Do you offer training for Orbital Welding?

Yes, we offer a 2 hour training for customers who have recently purchased a new Swagelok Welding System. We also offer an 8-hour training at our facility in Chaska, MN, or an advanced week-long course at our corporate facility to certify an ASME Section IX Specialist. See a detailed look at our training courses here.

9. What is your warranty program?

Our Limited Lifetime warranty is unique to the industry. Our welded assemblies have the same warranty as our Swagelok components. Download a copy of the warranty here.