Abstract: A method of joining the ends of metal strip material together by positioning a consumable insert of weld filler material between the full thickness of the strip ends and below the lower surface of the strip ends a predetermined depth to establish a predetermined gap between the strip ends thus allowing for full arc penetration of the strip ends and providing a supply of the filler material to the root of the weld to be formed between the strip ends.

Abstract: A method of increasing the fatigue life and/or reducing stress corrosion cracking of metal coiled tubing made from a continuous length of strip material by shot peening one or both sides of the strip material along substantially the entire length of the strip material prior to milling the strip material into tubing. The continuous length of strip material is made up of individual strips welded together in end to end abutting relation and the welds are finished before the strip material is shot peened. Alternatively, or in addition to shot peening at least the side of the strip material that forms the interior surface of the tubing, the exterior surface of the tubing is continuously shot peened as the tubing is wound onto a reel or spool.