Mobile phone systems are mainly electronic, but a fabricated tube plays a critical role—known as a waveguide, this rectangular tube connects the transmitter to the antenna. Precise bending and forming are critical to manufacturing a waveguide that provides a strong, clear signal.

Hydrostatic testing of oil country tubular goods is done twice—once to test the weld seam, then again after the item is threaded and a coupling attached. Most hydrostatic testing systems test the entire length of the pipe both times, but a new unit, the box-end hydrostatic tester, tests just the threaded portion and the coupling, reducing the time and water needed for the second test.

Weld inspectors, especially those who are new to the trade, put a lot of emphasis on the equipment needed to do the job: flashlight, mirror, high-low gauge, pit gauge, bridge camera, and a borescope. However, this isn’t the entire toolkit. A weld inspector also must be cognizant of the applicable codes, knowledgeable about the project owners’ specifications, and should carry a personal log book for making notes about conversations and inspections.