Theme/Topic Area:

 The theme/topic area of this paper is the reliability of mechanical interference fit technology comparing to conventional welding. Mechanical interference fit technology is a method of joining two parts by forcing them together with a slight amount of interference between their mating surfaces. Conventional welding is a method of joining two parts by melting and fusing them together. 

Purpose/Objective: 

The purpose of this paper is to assess the reliability of mechanical interference fit technology in comparison to conventional welding, considering factors such as productivity, manpower, cost implications, hazard & risk, quality and greenhouse gas emissions . The objective is to provide recommendations for the utilization of mechanical interference fit technology in pipeline construction. 

Methodology: 

The methodology used in this paper is a literature review. The literature review was conducted to identify and assess the relevant research on the reliability of mechanical interference fit technology and conventional welding. 

Results/Findings:

 The literature review reveals that mechanical interference fit technology is generally regarded as more reliable than conventional welding. This superiority stems from the fact that MIF technology does not rely on heat for joining and it’s a cold forming process, thereby avoiding potential material weakening. Furthermore, this technology boasts minimal quality observations/interactions, reduced costs, fewer incidents, enhanced productivity, and lower carbon dioxide emissions. 

Conclusions: 

Based on the findings, this paper concludes that mechanical interference fit technology represents a more reliable method for joining parts when compared to conventional welding. Its independence from heat-based fusion results in fewer incidents and fewer quality issues, making it a cleaner, faster with elimination of radioactive waves (RT) and hazards as a preferable choice for various applications.