METHOD FOR TESTING AND DEVICE FOR MEASURING COMPONENTS OF A PIPE BEFORE WELDING

Description

[0001] The invention This relates to the field of gas distribution pipelines made of polymer material. More specifically, the invention relates to the welding of several joints in these pipelines.

[0002] Currently, more than 200,000 connections are made each year on the national gas distribution network in France. The majority of these connections are made automatically using automated systems, according to state-of-the-art technologies such as butt welding or electrofusion welding.

[0003] French patent FR 2,572,326 describes automated welding systems capable of operating in automatic mode thanks to the integration of an electronic module that manages the various welding phases. Another patent document, US patent 6,858,822, describes a method and device for performing surface analysis prior to authorization of an electrofusion welding operation on tubes that must be scraped, peeled, or cleaned of surface contaminants before being deemed suitable for such welding. The method and device use non-contact probes attached to the welding system's power cables, so that the inspection is performed automatically on the relevant tube section just before the power supply to the heated welding coils is activated.If the relevant tube section fails inspection, the welding equipment is deactivated until the probes are removed and then reinstalled for further inspection, so that, during this interval, the operator can presumably correct the situation, for example by scraping or re-peeling the relevant tube section.

[0004] However, such automated systems and the processes implemented cannot guarantee a robust and durable welded joint throughout the pipeline's lifespan, given the possibility of weld quality defects at certain stages, particularly at the initial stage due to the scraping and cleaning of the components to be welded. These scraping and cleaning steps are necessary to remove a chemical barrier that hinders the interdiffusion of macromolecules. Such drawbacks result in significant leak detection costs, as well as initial excavation costs. These costs are then followed by equally significant costs related to leak repairs once leaks have been identified.

[0005] The invention aims in particular to drastically reduce these costs, the root cause of which is poor automatic welding of the joints.

[0006] To this end, the invention relates to a pre-welding verification method for a polymer tube and a polymer accessory, comprising the following steps in the following order: a) determination of respective values ​​relating to the roughness of the tube and the accessory, b) if at least one of the following conditions is not met: a predetermined condition between the relative value of the tube roughness and a tube roughness threshold, a predetermined condition between the relative value of the accessory roughness and an accessory roughness threshold, automated means prevent proceeding to step c), c) determination of respective values ​​relating to the cleanliness of the tube and the accessory, d) if at least one of the following conditions is not met: a predetermined condition between the relative value of the tube cleanliness and a tube cleanliness threshold, a predetermined condition between the relative value of the accessory cleanliness and an accessory cleanliness threshold, automated means prevent proceeding to step e), and e) determination of respective values ​​relating to a temperature of the tube and the accessory,f) if at least one of the following conditions is not met: a predetermined condition between a relative value for a tube temperature and a temperature range, a predetermined condition between a relative value for an accessory temperature and the temperature range, the automated means prevent proceeding to step g), g) mounting the accessory onto the tube. ,

[0007] Thus, the method of the invention makes it possible to verify the surface condition of each component to be welded in order to obtain a pipeline resulting from the welding of a tube and a fitting made of polymer material of higher quality, thereby reducing the need for subsequent repairs caused by poor-quality welds between these two components. The method of the invention makes it possible to control the surface condition of the components to be welded prior to the welding step. More specifically, the method of the invention makes it possible to guarantee that the process is blocked at a predetermined stage through the use of automated means, until all the predetermined conditions justifying progression to the next stage are met. Thus, it is not possible to force the progression to the next stage.Therefore, the transition to a welding step that is subsequent to the steps of the process of the invention can be safely prevented, which makes it possible to guarantee the good quality of the final weld.

[0008] Thus, the transition to the welding stage is indirectly blocked until each of the surface conditions of the components to be welded meets the prerequisites for a quality weld that lasts over time.

[0009] Step f), which compares the tube temperature and accessory temperature values, provides additional data for the welding step, contributing to a high-quality and durable weld. This comparison step takes place after step d) and therefore only if the predetermined conditions of steps b) and d) have been met and the procedure for determining the respective tube and accessory temperatures has been completed.

[0010] Thus, welding is prevented by automated means until the tube and fitting reach a suitable temperature for welding. To this end, the temperature values ​​are compared to a reference temperature range for the welding step. When any of these measured values ​​falls outside the temperature range, the automated system blocks the transition to assembly step g). In some extreme cases, it may even indicate that a suitable temperature for the tube or fitting cannot be reached for welding. The temperature range is defined as the range within which the tube and fitting temperatures are acceptable for the welding step. This temperature range may change depending on evolving standards governing component welding techniques. Such standards are generally country-specific.Therefore, the temperature range can vary from country to country. For example, the temperature range in France can be from -5°C to +35°C.

[0011] Automated means can be any means of preventing progression to the next step. For example, automated means could include a tablet or computer containing software programmed to prevent progression to the next step if one of the predetermined conditions necessary for validating that progression is not met. For instance, automated means could be programmed to allow the release of the means enabling the completion of step c) only if both predetermined conditions of step b) are met.

[0012] The components of the pipeline to be assembled can correspond to any type of joint, weldable in pairs, known to those skilled in the art, provided that one of the two components is a pipe. For example, these components can be pipes, couplings, or branch saddles. Thus, the predetermined roughness and cleanliness thresholds can be specific to one or more types of joints.

[0013] The polymer material used to manufacture these pipeline components can be any material known to those skilled in the art that allows the two components to be welded together to form a gas pipeline network, particularly using butt welding or electrofusion techniques. Suitable polymer materials include thermoplastics. Polyethylene (PE) and polyolefins are particularly well-suited.

[0014] Advantageously, the process includes a tube scraping step prior to step a).

[0015] Advantageously, step a) includes the creation of a representation of the roughness of the tube and the accessory.

[0016] The roughness of components to be welded can be represented according to the surface roughening requirements. This representation can be achieved using techniques such as laser profilometry. These techniques are non-destructive and do not damage the components or the pipeline as a whole. This representation can take the form of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphic, created from measurements of surface roughness data.

[0017] This representation is then analyzed to determine one or more representative values ​​of the roughness of each component. These values ​​can be parameters related to the roughness of these surfaces, for example, the total roughness (Rt), the mean deviation (Ra), the average roughness, the maximum peak (Rp), the maximum trough (Rc), the period of the main groove, the developed area of ​​the portion of the component to be welded, the structural anisotropy, etc.

[0018] Next, the determined tube roughness value(s) and the determined accessory roughness value(s) are compared, respectively, to one or more tube roughness thresholds and one or more accessory roughness thresholds that represent acceptable tube and accessory roughness levels for welding. If these comparisons reveal that the tube or accessory roughness does not meet the criteria necessary to ensure a durable weld, the procedure to proceed to step c) is blocked by automated means.

[0019] Advantageously, when the predetermined condition between the relative value of the tube roughness and the tube roughness threshold is not met, the tube is scraped on a portion not previously scraped, then step a) is repeated, and when the predetermined condition between the relative value of the accessory roughness and the accessory roughness threshold is not met, the accessory is replaced, then step a) is repeated.

[0020] Using a tube scraping step on a previously unscraped portion allows the possibility of welding between the tube and the accessory to be maintained without having to replace the tube, while controlling the roughness of the latter to ensure it is acceptable in view of the tube roughness requirements to ensure a good final weld.

[0021] Advantageously, step c) includes the creation of a representation of the cleanliness of the tube and the accessory.

[0022] The cleanliness of components to be soldered can be assessed based on the required surface cleaning specifications. This assessment can be performed using techniques such as UV fluorescence, infrared spectrometry, or light scattering. These techniques are non-destructive and do not damage the components or the pipeline as a whole. The assessment can take the form of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphic representation, generated from measurements of surface cleanliness data.

[0023] This representation is then analyzed to determine one or more representative values ​​of the cleanliness of each component. Such values ​​may be parameters relating to the level of surface contamination, for example.

[0024] Next, the determined tube cleanliness value(s) and the determined accessory cleanliness value(s) are compared, respectively, to one or more tube cleanliness thresholds and one or more accessory cleanliness thresholds that represent acceptable tube and accessory cleanliness for welding. If these comparisons reveal that the tube or accessory cleanliness does not meet the cleanliness requirements for ensuring a durable weld, the automated process prevents the progression to step e) of comparing the component temperature values.

[0025] Advantageously, when the predetermined condition between the relative value of the tube cleanliness and the tube cleanliness threshold is not met, a tube cleaning step is performed, then step c is repeated, and when the predetermined condition between the relative value of the accessory cleanliness and the accessory cleanliness threshold is not met, an accessory cleaning step is performed, then step c is repeated.

[0026] Using a tube cleaning step or an accessory cleaning step can increase the quality of the cleanliness of the surfaces of the components to be soldered, when each of them does not have an acceptable level of cleanliness for an acceptable solder joint.

[0027] Advantageously, at least one of the predetermined conditions of step b) is that the relative value of the tube roughness or the relative value of the accessory roughness is less than, respectively, the tube roughness threshold or the accessory roughness threshold, or at least one of the predetermined conditions of step b) is that the relative value of the tube roughness or the relative value of the accessory roughness is greater than, respectively, the tube roughness threshold or the accessory roughness threshold.

[0028] Advantageously, the tube roughness threshold is a first tube roughness threshold, the automated means prevent the passage to step c) if the value relating to the tube roughness is not within a range formed by the first tube roughness threshold and a second tube roughness threshold, different from the first tube roughness threshold.

[0029] Advantageously, the accessory roughness threshold is a first accessory roughness threshold, the automated means prevent the passage to step c) if the value relating to the roughness of the accessory is not within a range formed by the first accessory roughness threshold and a second accessory roughness threshold, different from the first accessory roughness threshold.

[0030] Advantageously, at least one of the predetermined conditions of step d) is that the relative cleanliness value of the tube or the relative cleanliness value of the accessory is less than, respectively, the cleanliness threshold of the tube or the cleanliness threshold of the accessory, or at least one of the predetermined conditions of step d) is that the relative cleanliness value of the tube or the relative cleanliness value of the accessory is greater than, respectively, the cleanliness threshold of the tube or the cleanliness threshold of the accessory.

[0031] Advantageously, the cleanliness threshold of the tube is a first cleanliness threshold of the tube, the automated means prevent the passage to step e) if the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube is not within a range formed by the first cleanliness threshold of the tube and a second cleanliness threshold of the tube, different from the first cleanliness threshold of the tube.

[0032] Advantageously, the accessory cleanliness threshold is a first accessory cleanliness threshold, the automated means prevent the passage to step e) if the value relating to the accessory cleanliness is not within a range formed by the first accessory cleanliness threshold and a second accessory cleanliness threshold, different from the first accessory cleanliness threshold.

[0033] Advantageously, the process further includes a step of determining the amount of energy required for welding based on the value relative to a temperature of the tube and the value relative to a temperature of the accessory.

[0034] Thus, the temperature values ​​of the tube and the accessory used in comparison step e) allow the welding machine to determine the amount of energy delivered. This amount of energy is then corrected against a reference value, based on the measured tube and accessory temperatures. The energy applied is therefore the optimal energy for this weld, ensuring its durability.

[0035] Advantageously, the process is automated.

[0036] Thus, the process can be implemented, for example, using a control system (a programmable logic controller - PLC) capable of executing all the steps of the verification process. Such automation makes it possible to increase the verification rate of the components to be welded and to automatically launch all the steps of the verification process of the invention.

[0037] The invention also relates to a method for welding a polymer tube and a polymer accessory to form a gas pipeline.

[0038] The invention also relates to a program comprising code instructions capable of controlling the implementation of a method of the invention when executed on a computer.

[0039] The invention also relates to a recording medium comprising a program according to the invention in recorded form.

[0040] The invention also relates to a pre-welding verification device for a polymer tube and a polymer accessory, characterized in that it comprises first means arranged to determine respective values ​​relating to the roughness of the tube and the accessory, second means arranged to determine respective values ​​relating to the cleanliness of the tube and the accessory, automated means arranged to prevent the use of the second means if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the tube and a roughness threshold of the tube is not met or if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the accessory and a roughness threshold of the accessory is not met, third means arranged to measure values ​​relating to the temperature of the tube and the accessory, the automated means being arranged to prevent the use of the third means if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube and a cleanliness threshold of the tube is not met,or if a predetermined condition between the relative cleanliness value of the accessory and a cleanliness threshold of the accessory is not met, the means for mounting the accessory on the tube, the automated means being arranged to prevent the use of the mounting means if a predetermined condition between the relative temperature value of the tube and a temperature range is not met, or if a predetermined condition between the relative temperature value of the accessory and the temperature range is not met. Brief description of the figures

[0041] We will now present several embodiments of the invention solely by way of example and with reference to the attached drawings in which: [ Fig.1 ] there figure 1is a diagram illustrating elements of a pre-welding verification device for a polymer tube and a polymer accessory according to a first embodiment and a second embodiment, [ Fig. 2 ] there figure 2 is a diagram illustrating elements of a pre-welding verification device for a polymer tube and a polymer accessory according to a third embodiment and a fourth embodiment, [ Fig.3 ] there figure 3 is a flowchart representing different stages of the verification process according to a first implementation method, [ Fig. 4 ] there figure 4 is a flowchart representing different steps of the process according to a second implementation method, and [ Fig. 5 ] there figure 5 is a flowchart representing different stages of the welding process of the invention according to a first implementation method, [ Fig. 6 ] there figure 6is an example of representing the surface condition of a component. Detailed description

[0042] We have represented on the Figures 1A to 2B , elements of pre-welding verification devices 1 of a polymer tube 4 and a polymer accessory 5 or 6, according to four different embodiments.

[0043] In all these different embodiments, the pre-welding verification device 1 includes a measuring element 2 and a support 3 for the measuring element 2 comprising means for assembly to the component 4, 5 or 6. These components 4, 5 or 6 have a cylindrical tubular profile shape with a circular cross-section.

[0044] The measuring unit 2 comprises a main body 20, a laser profilometry type sensor 21, a UV fluorescence type sensor 22, an infrared thermometer 23, transmitters 24 and at least one wireless power source 25 which supplies power to the four types of elements mentioned above.

[0045] The main body 20 can be in the form of a bar, which allows the different elements of the measuring organ 2 to be arranged easily.

[0046] As illustrated in the Figure 1A The pre-welding verification device 1 allows, in particular, the measurement of data relating to the surface condition (roughness and cleanliness) of an external portion 41 of a hollow tube 4, the end of which is intended to be welded into the half-socket of the sleeve 5 of the figure 1BThe support 3 includes a ferrule 31 suitable for positioning in the tube 4 and an arm 32 extending from the ferrule 31, which allows the measuring element 2 to be offset relative to the portion 41 of the tube 4. For carrying out the measurements, the main body 20 is suitable for translational movement relative to the tube 4, along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tube 4. The main body 20 is also suitable for rotational movement relative to the tube 4, around this longitudinal axis. Thus, the laser profilometry type sensor 21 and the UV fluorescence type sensor 22 can scan the entire portion 41 of the tube 4. These two sensors provide data relating to the surface condition (roughness and cleanliness) of the portion 41 of the tube 4. This data is transmitted to a data acquisition unit 9 by means of transmitters 24. The data acquisition unit 9 is capable of processing and analyzing the data it receives.

[0047] To check the surface condition of the inner portion 51 of the sleeve 5, the support 3 of the device 1, according to a second embodiment, includes a clamping frame 33. This clamping frame 33 includes tabs 34, each of which exerts a compressive force on the outer surface of the sleeve 5, thus holding the support 3 in a stationary position relative to the sleeve 5. The support 3 also includes a central portion 35 in which an opening (not shown) is provided. This opening allows the measuring element 2 to be at least partially positioned in the half-socket of the sleeve 5. Through this opening, the main body 20 of the measuring element 2 can be moved in a translational motion relative to the sleeve 5, along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve 5. Thus, the measuring element 2 can be inserted further into the sleeve 5.The main body 20 can also be moved in a rotational motion relative to the sleeve 5, around this longitudinal axis. This combination of longitudinal and rotational movements allows the laser profilometry type sensor 21 and the UV fluorescence type sensor 22 to scan the entire internal portion 51 of the sleeve 5. By measuring the internal surface condition of the sleeve 5, it is notably possible to determine anomalies present on the heating mat (e.g., displaced wires, cavities, etc.). etc. ) .

[0048] A third embodiment is illustrated in the figure 2A and allows checking the surface condition of a portion 41 of a tube 4, intended to be welded with a portion (not visible) of a branch saddle 6.

[0049] To this end, the support 3 comprises two rings 37 forming circular housings adapted to encircle the tube 4. These two rings 37 are connected to each other by means of two clamping rods 36 which secure the entire support 3 to the tube 4. Each of the two circular housings 37 has an opening (not shown) allowing the measuring element 2 to be positioned offset from and opposite the portion 41 of the tube 4. As in the first two embodiments presented, the main body 20 of the measuring element 2 can be moved in translation and rotation so that the laser profilometry sensor 21 and the UV fluorescence sensor 22 can scan the entire portion 41 of the tube 4.

[0050] The branch saddle 6, intended to be welded to the tube 4 illustrated in the figure 2Bis a hollow, semi-cylindrical component. To check the surface condition of the internal portion 61 of the branch saddle 6, the support 3 of the checking device 1 according to the fourth embodiment comprises two contact elements 38. These contact elements 38 are suitable for positioning each on one end of the branch saddle 6. They are connected to each other by means of a clamping rod 36 which secures the entire support 3 and holds it in a fixed position relative to the branch saddle 6. Each of the two contact elements 38 has an opening (not shown) allowing the measuring element 2 to be positioned offset from the inner surface of the branch saddle 6.As with the previous embodiments, the main body 20 of the measuring member 2 can be moved in translation and rotation so that the laser profilometry type sensor 21 and the UV fluorescence type sensor 22 can scan the entire weldable portion of the branch saddle 6. By measuring the internal surface condition of the branch saddle 6, it is particularly possible to determine anomalies present on the heating pad (e.g., displaced wires, cavities, etc.). etc. ) .

[0051] Device 1 includes automated means for implementing the verification process of the invention. These automated means incorporate the data acquisition unit to which the data measured by the various sensors of Device 1 are transmitted. The pre-welding verification device 1 may be an automated system enabling the automated implementation of the verification process.

[0052] We have represented on the figures 3 And 4 two methods of implementing a verification process before welding a polymer tube 4 and a polymer accessory 5 or 6.

[0053] The method for verifying the invention according to the first implementation method ( figure 3 The process begins with a first step A, which determines the respective roughness values ​​of the tube 4 and the fitting 5 or 6 to be welded, in this case for the purpose of forming a gas pipeline. This method is also suitable for pre-welding verification of a pipeline intended to receive containers other than gas, provided their transport is compatible with the polymer material of the tube 4 and the fitting 5 or 6. Such a container could, for example, be a fluid, such as water.

[0054] In the implementation method illustrated in the figure 3Step A involves creating a representation of the roughness of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. This step is carried out using one or more sensors (for example, one or more laser roughness testers 21 of device 1) that measure data relating to the roughness of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 to be welded. The measured data is then processed by computer via a data acquisition unit 9 integrated into the automated means, which allows for the creation of the representation, an example of which is illustrated in three dimensions. figure 6 .

[0055] After the roughness representation of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 has been produced, it is analyzed to determine the respective values ​​relating to the roughness of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. Such values ​​may be derived from the following non-exhaustive list: total roughness (Rt), mean deviation (Ra), mean roughness, maximum peak (Rp), maximum trough (Rc), period of the main groove, developed area of ​​the portion of the component to be welded, structural anisotropy, striation in the direction of scraping.

[0056] This first step A is followed by a comparison step B, in which the respective roughness values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 are compared to a roughness threshold for tube 4 and a roughness threshold for the accessory. This determines whether a predetermined condition between the roughness value of tube 4 and a roughness threshold for tube 4, and whether a predetermined condition between the roughness value of accessory 5 or 6 and a roughness threshold for accessory 5 or 6, are met. If so, the automated means allow the process to proceed to step C. However, if at least one of the two conditions in step B is not met, the automated means prevent the process from proceeding to step C (step Z1). It is not possible for a manual operator to bypass the automated blocking of the process.These devices may include a tablet, computer, or smartphone containing software programmed to prevent progress to step C if one of the predetermined conditions necessary for validating that step is not met. For example, automated systems may be programmed to allow the release of the resources enabling step C only if both predetermined conditions of step B are met.

[0057] Step C is a step of determining respective values ​​relating to the cleanliness of tube 4 and the accessory.

[0058] According to this first implementation, step C includes a step for generating a representation of the cleanliness of tube 4 and the accessory. This step can be implemented using one or more UV fluorescence sensors 21 of device 1, which measure data relating to the cleanliness of the surface of tube 4 and the accessory 5 or 6 to be soldered. Alternatively, or in addition to the UV fluorescence sensors 21, device 1 can also include one or more infrared spectrometers, which also measure data relating to the cleanliness of the surface of tube 4 and the accessory 5 or 6 to be soldered. The measured data are then processed by computer via the data acquisition unit 9, which allows for the generation of the aforementioned representation.

[0059] After the representation of the cleanliness of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 has been carried out, the latter is analyzed in order to determine the respective values ​​relating to the cleanliness of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. Such values ​​may relate to the level of surface contamination, such as the amount of grease or the amount of dust.

[0060] Step C is followed by a comparison step D, in which the respective cleanliness values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 are compared to a cleanliness threshold for tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6, respectively. This allows verification of whether a predetermined condition between the cleanliness value of tube 4 and a cleanliness threshold for tube 4, and whether a predetermined condition between the cleanliness value of accessory 5 or 6 and a cleanliness threshold for accessory 5 or 6, is met. If so, the automated process allows the procedure to proceed to step E, which involves measuring the temperature values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. This temperature measurement is performed using the infrared thermometer 23 of the measuring element 2 of device 1.

[0061] However, if at least one of the two conditions in step D is not met, then the automated means prevent the process from proceeding to step E (step Z2). Again, it is not possible for an operator to manually bypass the process blockage caused by the automated means. The process blockage at this stage can take various forms. For example, the automated means may prevent the unlocking of the means of device 1, which are used to measure the temperature values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. Thus, it is impossible to bypass this blockage using the automated means.

[0062] Step E is followed by a comparison step F, during which the respective temperature values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 are compared to a temperature range. If the measured temperature values ​​of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 fall outside the temperature range, the automated means prevent the process from proceeding to step F, which involves mounting accessory 5 or 6 onto tube 4 (step Z3). Conversely, if these temperature values ​​fall within the temperature range, the automated means allow the process to proceed to step G, which involves mounting accessory 5 or 6 onto tube 4. An operator then mounts accessory 5 or 6 onto tube 4 using the mounting means (not shown) of the verification device 1.

[0063] When all the predetermined conditions of steps B, D and F are met and the assembly step G has been carried out via assembly means (not shown) or manually, the verification process according to this first method of implementation is completed and the tube 4 and the accessory 5 or 6 can therefore be welded together.

[0064] The process according to the second embodiment of the invention shares the steps of the process according to the first embodiment. It further includes a step I of scraping a previously unscraped portion of the tube 4 and / or replacing the accessory 5 or 6, which are carried out after the automated means have prevented the process from proceeding to step C (step Z1). The alternative to step I, in which the tube 4 is scraped on a previously unscraped portion, is implemented if the predetermined condition between the relative roughness value of the tube 4 and a roughness threshold for the tube 4 is not met. Step A is then repeated to determine whether the roughness of the newly scraped portion of the tube 4 meets the necessary scraping requirements to allow for a weld of lasting quality.If this is still not the case, the automated system again prevents the process from proceeding to step C (step Z1), and the verification loop is repeated. This allows for the efficient guarantee that tube 4 has adequate roughness for a quality weld, without having to replace tube 4, which would be a complex and costly operation.

[0065] The alternative in step I, where accessory 5 or 6 is replaced, is implemented if the predetermined condition between the relative roughness value of accessory 5 or 6 and a roughness threshold for accessory 5 or 6 is not met. In this case, accessory 5 or 6 is replaced, and steps A and B are repeated. As before, if this condition is still not met during the new step B, the automated means again prevent the process from proceeding to step C (step Z1), and the verification loop is repeated.

[0066] The method according to the second implementation also includes a second verification loop comprising steps C, D, Z2, and J. Specifically, when the automated means block the transition to step E, a step J is implemented. Step J involves cleaning the surface of tube 4 and / or the surface of accessory 5 or 6, depending on which predetermined condition of step D is not met. Similar to the first verification loop, step C is implemented again immediately after the completion of step J, followed by the comparison step D. If at least one of the predetermined conditions is still not met, the automated means block the transition to step E, which measures the temperature values ​​of tube 4 and accessories 5 and 6, and the second verification loop is implemented again.

[0067] We represented at the figure 5, an implementation method of a welding process of a polymer tube 4 and a polymer accessory 5 or 6 to form a gas pipeline, in which the verification process according to the second implementation method is implemented.

[0068] This welding process includes all the steps described in the description of the verification process according to the second implementation method.

[0069] In an unshown variant of the welding process of the invention, a third verification loop is performed between steps E, F, and Z3. More specifically, a second measurement step E is implemented after step Z3 to determine a new measurement relating to the temperature of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6. This second measurement step is implemented after a certain time has elapsed, to allow the temperature of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 to return to ambient temperature. Then step F is implemented again, and if either of the second measured values ​​relating to the temperature of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 is still outside the temperature range, the automated means again prevent the process from proceeding to step G.Furthermore, if it turns out that one of the measured values ​​relating to the temperature of tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 is too far from one of the limits of the temperature range, such that tube 4 or accessory 5 or 6 cannot reach an acceptable temperature for a welding step, then the process can be stopped by automated means.

[0070] When the result of step F, comparing the measured values ​​relating to temperature in step E, is positive, i.e., that these measured values ​​are within the temperature range, the automated means allow the transition to step G of the process.

[0071] In step H, the amount of energy to be supplied to the welding machine for welding between tube 4 and accessory 5 or 6 is determined based on the temperature values ​​measured in step E. According to these measured temperatures, the heating time and power are adjusted by the machine to ensure a durable assembly. This assembly is carried out during the implementation of welding step S.

[0072] After the completion of the welding step (step S), a report preparation step (step K) is carried out in order to issue a welding and traceability report for the welded components, with the aim of listing the two welded components and the welding conditions.

[0073] The welding process of the invention may also include pre-scraping steps on the tube 4 prior to step A. These pre-scraping steps are intended to prepare the surface of the tube 4 for the welding step with regard to the tube 4 scraping requirements. This process may also include pre-cleaning steps on the tube 4 and the accessory 5 or 6 prior to step C. These pre-cleaning steps are intended to prepare the surface of these components for the welding step with regard to the cleanliness requirements for each of these components.

[0074] The automated means of the device are arranged to assist the operator during the implementation of at least one of the processes as described above. Specifically, they are programmed to allow the progression to a given subsequent step as indicated, or conversely, to prevent it if the required condition is not met. These means may control all or part of the steps of the process of the invention. To this end, the device includes, on a recording medium, a computer program containing code instructions capable of controlling these steps when executed on the device.

[0075] Steps G and H of the welding process implementation method figure 5 These two steps can be implemented in the reverse order of that described previously. They can also be implemented concurrently. List of references

[0076] 1: Measuring device 2: Measuring element 3: Support for the measuring element 4: Polymer tube 5: Polymer sleeve 6: Polymer branch saddle 9: Data acquisition unit 20: Main body 21: Laser profilometry type sensor 22: UV fluorescence type sensor 23: Infrared thermometer 24: Transmitter 25: Power source 31: Ferrule 32: Arm 33: Clamping frame 34: Clamping lugs 35: Central part 36: Clamping rod 37: Band 38: Contact element 41: Portion of the tube weldable surface 51: Portion of the sleeve weldable surface 61: Portion of the saddle weldable surface Step A: Determination of respective values ​​relating to the roughness of the tube and the accessory Step B: Comparisons related to the roughness of the tube and the accessory Step C: Determination of respective values ​​relating to the cleanliness of the tube and accessory step D: comparisons related to tube cleanliness andAccessory step E: measurement of respective values ​​relating to the temperature of the tube and the accessory; step F: comparisons related to the temperature values ​​of the tube and the accessory; step G: mounting of the accessory on the tube; step H: determination of the amount of energy required for welding; step I: scraping of a previously unscraped portion of the tube and / or replacement of the accessory; step J: cleaning of the surface of the tube and / or the surface of the accessory; step K: issuance of a welding and traceability report; step S: welding; steps Z1, Z2, Z3: blocking of the process by automated means

Claims

1. A method for verifying, prior to welding, a tube (4) made of a polymer material and a fitting (5, 6) made of a polymer material, characterized in that it comprises the following steps in the following order: a) determining respective values relating to the roughness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), b) if at least one of the following conditions is not fulfilled: - a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) and a roughness threshold of the tube (4), - a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) and a roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), automated means prevent proceeding to step c), c) determining respective values relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), d) if at least one of the following conditions is not fulfilled: - a predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) and a cleanliness threshold of the tube (4), - a predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) and a cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), the automated means prevent proceeding to step e), and e) determining respective values relating to a temperature of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), f) if at least one of the following conditions is not fulfilled: - a predetermined condition between the value relating to a temperature of the tube (4) and a temperature range, - a predetermined condition between the value relating to a temperature of the fitting (5, 6) and the temperature range, the automated means prevent proceeding to step g), g) assembling the fitting (5, 6) onto the tube (4).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising a step of scraping the tube (4) prior to step a).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein step a) comprises producing a representation of the roughness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6).

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - when the predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) and the roughness threshold of the tube (4) is not fulfilled, the tube (4) is scraped on a previously non-scraped portion, and step a) is repeated, and - when the predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) and the roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) is not fulfilled, the fitting (5, 6) is replaced, and step a) is repeated.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein step c) comprises producing a representation of the cleanliness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6).

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - when the predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) and the cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) is not fulfilled, a step of cleaning the tube (4) is performed, and step c) is repeated, and - when the predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) and the cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) is not fulfilled, a step of cleaning the fitting (5, 6) is performed, and step c) is repeated.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the predetermined conditions of step b) is that the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) or the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) is respectively lower than the roughness threshold of the tube (4) or the roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), or wherein at least one of the predetermined conditions of step b) is that the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) or the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) is respectively higher than the roughness threshold of the tube (4) or the roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6).

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the roughness threshold of the tube (4) being a first roughness threshold of the tube (4), the automated means prevent proceeding to step c) if the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) is not within a range formed by the first roughness threshold of the tube (4) and a second roughness threshold of the tube (4), different from the first roughness threshold of the tube (4).

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) being a first roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), the automated means prevent proceeding to step c) if the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) is not within a range formed by the first roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) and a second roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), different from the first roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6).

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the predetermined conditions of step d) is that the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) or the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) is respectively lower than the cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) or the cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), or wherein at least one of the predetermined conditions of step d) is that the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) or the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) is respectively higher than the cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) or the cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6).

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) being a first cleanliness threshold of the tube (4), the automated means prevent proceeding to step e) if the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) is not within a range formed by the first cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) and a second cleanliness threshold of the tube (4), different from the first cleanliness threshold of the tube (4).

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) being a first cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), the automated means prevent proceeding to step e) if the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) is not within a range formed by the first cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) and a second cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6), different from the first cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6).

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step of determining an amount of energy required for welding as a function of the value relating to a temperature of the tube (4) and the value relating to a temperature of the fitting (5, 6).

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method is automated.

15. A method for welding a tube (4) made of a polymer material and a fitting (5, 6) made of a polymer material to form a gas pipeline, wherein the verification method according to any one of the preceding claims is implemented.

16. A program comprising code instructions suitable for controlling the implementation of a method according to any one of the preceding claims when executed on a computer.

17. A recording medium comprising a program according to the preceding claim in recorded form.

18. A device for verifying, prior to welding, a tube (4) made of a polymer material and a fitting (5, 6) made of a polymer material, characterized in that it comprises: - first means arranged to determine respective values relating to the roughness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), - second means arranged to determine respective values relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), - automated means arranged to prevent the use of the second means if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the tube (4) and a roughness threshold of the tube (4) is not fulfilled, or if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the roughness of the fitting (5, 6) and a roughness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) is not fulfilled, - third means arranged to measure values relating to the temperature of the tube (4) and of the fitting (5, 6), - the automated means being arranged to prevent the use of the third means if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the tube (4) and a cleanliness threshold of the tube (4) is not fulfilled, or if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the cleanliness of the fitting (5, 6) and a cleanliness threshold of the fitting (5, 6) is not fulfilled, - means for assembling the fitting (5, 6) onto the tube (4), - the automated means being arranged to prevent the use of the assembling means if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the temperature of the tube (4) and a temperature range is not fulfilled, or if a predetermined condition between the value relating to the temperature of the fitting (5, 6) and the temperature range is not fulfilled.