New Specifications for Steel Pipeline Induction and Cold Bends (CSA Z245.16 and Z245.17)

Abstract Steel pipe bends manufactured by induction or cold bending processes have become increasingly prevalent in the oil and gas pipeline industry, often replacing fittings in many applications. However, the absence of clear specifications for the manufacturing of these types of bends in the existing CSA standards prompted the development of new standards. In response, two new standards, CSA Z245.16:22 Induction bends, and CSA Z245.17:22 Cold bends were developed, and were published in August 2022. Notably, the CSA Z245.17:22 Standard, focusing on the manufacturing processes of factory-made cold bends designed primarily for integration into oil or gas pipeline systems, is the first of its kind. This is a significant development in the Canadian oil and gas pipeline industry, complementing the existing specification of CSA Z662 Oil and gas pipeline systems. The main objective of these new standards is to establish clear and consistent requirements for factory-made induction and cold bends, distinct from the existing CSA Z245.11 Steel fittings standard. This differentiation is important because starting material and manufacturing processes qualification differ from those for fittings. The publication of these new bends standards provides clarification on the requirements specific to induction and cold bends. This paper reviews the content and application of CSA Z245.16:22 and CSA Z245.17:22. It discusses the main requirements introduced and outlines a plan for future changes to the standards for their next edition in 2025.