That’s what’s written in the engineering spec. on all of my jobs that have a written spec.
There are machines for certain applications and processes, and they can be used to some capacity but in this application it’s not possible nor permitted.
That’s why we still teach, test and certify stick. Certified pipe welders are always in demand, it’s hardly a field that’s going away.
Pipeliners and specialty welders use different technology when they can.
Even so, I’ve yet to see a good positioning or alignment clamp when you’re setting a 45 degree elbow on a 90 degree elbow or 90 to tee, or in an obstructed area, or insert endless variable here, some joint fit up just doesn’t allow the placement of a machine.