Connexus is a proven mechanical interference fit technology for carbon-steel pipelines, combining rapid assembly, controlled quality, and performance supported by full-scale testing. Mechanical interference fit connection technology is recognized by API Std 5MIF.
Connexus is a safe, strong, and cost-effective process. Recent 16 in. installations have achieved approximately 60 completed joints per full workday, with production reaching up to 80 joints per day under favorable conditions.
Connexus has demonstrated installed-cost savings of approximately 10–15% through faster assembly, reduced labor and equipment requirements, and lower inspection and coating-repair costs.
Connexus is a proven technology supported by sound engineering, controlled quality assurance, and a full-scale connection testing program.
The Connexus system has an inherent safety advantage by reducing the number of workers handling the pipe. The Connexus process reduces the amount of heavy equipment moving along the right of way, and reduces risks associated with heat and electricity from welding.
Mechanical interference fit connection technology has a field history spanning approximately five decades, with MPSG responsible for more than 9,800 miles of pipeline installed across a broad range of services and operating environments. Connexus builds on this established technology base with modern engineering, controlled execution, quality assurance, and full-scale testing. Connexus provides mechanical interference fit connection capability for carbon-steel pipelines through 24 in. OD.
Connexus MIF connections can be incorporated into pipeline systems designed in accordance with ASME B31.4 and B31.8. Full-scale testing has demonstrated fatigue performance comparable to welded pipe within the tested configuration and loading envelope.
Connexus end preparation and assembly do not require field welding, preserving the pipe’s base-metal properties and avoiding the creation of a weld heat-affected zone at the connection.
Safe, strong, and cost-effective, Connexus helps improve pipeline construction efficiency
without compromising connection quality or performance.
One end of each pipe is swaged to create a pin, while the opposite end is expanded to form a bell.
Specialized joining equipment, controlled hydraulic force, and purpose-formulated epoxy are used to connect the pin and bell ends in the field. A typical Connexus connection is completed in approximately three to four minutes.
Connexus is a high-performance mechanical interference fit connection for gas, liquid, and multiphase pipelines. Mechanical interference fit connection technology is recognized by API Std 5MIF. MPS Global provides connection capability for carbon-steel pipe from 4 through 24 in. OD, including bare, internally coated, and externally coated configurations.
Check out Connexus in action with videos highlighting the preparation and assembly processes.
The Connexus process begins with controlled pipe-end preparation, which may be performed at a pipe mill, coating plant, pipe yard, or other suitable location.
Once the pipe is delivered and staged, the pin and bell ends are assembled using controlled hydraulic force and purpose-formulated epoxy.
Hydrostatic testing may begin 24 hours after completion of the final Connexus connection in the test section.
A typical connection is completed in approximately three to four minutes.
Connexus assembly does not require weld radiography or post-assembly weld NDT. Connection quality is verified through documented dimensional controls, joining pressure, and other project-specific QC records. Connexus equipment is designed for right-of-way deployment across a wide range of terrain and weather conditions.
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Connexus is a mechanical interference fit connection formed by inserting a carefully tapered pin end into an expanded bell end. The controlled diametral interference elastically strains the bell and creates high contact pressure between the mating steel surfaces. This metal-to-metal contact produces the frictional resistance that allows the connection to carry axial load and maintain the pressure capacity of the adjoining pipe.
Connexus epoxy is specifically formulated and optimized for the MIF assembly process. During insertion, the epoxy lubricates the pin-and-bell interface and helps prevent galling. It then cures to form a permanent, corrosion-resistant seal within the connection. Epoxy selection and application controls are established for the expected installation temperature and service environment.
The Connexus process begins with controlled pipe-end preparation. One end of each pipe is tapered to form the pin, while the opposite end is expanded to form the bell. During field assembly, purpose-built hydraulic equipment inserts the pin into the bell with the Connexus epoxy applied at the interface.
The resulting connection combines mechanical interference, metal-to-metal contact, and the cured epoxy seal. The interference fit provides the connection’s structural and axial load-carrying capability, while the epoxy provides lubrication during assembly and a corrosion-resistant seal within the completed joint. The machine-controlled process supports repeatable connection geometry and consistent execution across the installation program.
