Abstract Autogenous gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and pulse rapid arc gas metal arc welding (GMAW) of butting bimetal (Bubi) pipelines were studied. GMAW was carried out from the outside of the pipe while GTAW was done from the inside to prevent lack of penetration and to promote a smooth internal weld bead surface. Current, welding speed, electrode diameter, shielding gas and orbital positions were defined as variables. The requirement for the GTA weld was to achieve 2 mm penetration depth without undercutting. The required penetration was difficult to achieve due to the outwards flow pattern in the molten pool driven by the Marangoni effect as a result of low sulphur content. It was shown that, under optimised conditions, it was possible to obtain sound welds with proper geometry and defect free. The conditions needed were a combination of current of 170 A, welding speed of 200 mm/min and an electrode angle of 30°, with shielding gas protection of He–25%Ar for narrow groove welding of a J-beveled pipe.