Abstract: A method of welding two tubular members (1, 2) in end to end relationship includes providing the end of each tubular member (1, 2) to be joined with a shaped portion (3, 4). The shaped portion (3, 4) has a surface (10) which is substantially perpendicular to the radius of the tubular member (1, 2) and a second surface (13) at an obtuse angle to the radius of the tubular member (1, 2). Hence, when the ends to be joined are brought into contact with each other, shaped portions (3, 4) define a three-sided channel (13, 10, 13). A ring-shaped member (6) having a quadrilateral cross section is located in the channel. The ring-shaped member (6) has a radius which is greater than the radius of the first surface and less than the radius of the external wall of the tubular member (1, 2).