TPT January 2014

Technology News

I-Purge modular bladder system Introduced Foundries solutions HORMESA is a foundries solutions manufacturer, offering turnkey projects including engineering and knowledge sharing. Since the company was founded in 1987, it has specialised in equipment, materials and custom-made solutions for melting and casting ferrous and non-ferrous metals. holding furnaces for non-ferrous metal (gas, resistance, induction); continuous casting plant (horizontal and vertical) for copper alloys (tube, strip, bar); semi- continuous casting for aluminium billet; continuous casting plant for steel billet and wire; continuous casting plant for precious metal (gold, silver); battery and lead recycling plants; and refinery plant for non-ferrous metal (aluminium, copper). The main scope of supply includes melting furnaces for ferrous and non- ferrousmetal(gas,resistance,induction);

By offering all technologies, Hormesa is able to provide advice on the most suitable and profitable solution for each case. A customer-orientated approach and continuous technological development enables the company to provide custom-build solutions. Hormesa-Conticast Group – Spain Email: hormesa@hormesa.com Website: www.hormesa.com

A tri-flow hose maximises efficiency, enabling bladder inflation and quick flooding of the purge area with noble gas. An innovative tubing system provides separate connections for inflation of bladders and introduction of inert gas to the weld zone to expedite the purging process. The inflated bladders create an airtight seal against the pipe walls and a superior barrier. Another connection enables monitoring of exhaust gases so that assurance of an oxygen free environment is ascertained. Equipped with a patent-pending diffuser, gas is evenly distributed throughout the purge area and turbulence is greatly reduced. Once the weld is complete; the bladders can be deflated, extracted, cleaned and stored in a convenient and provided carrying bag. Another feature that showcases the system’s flexibility is the ability to modify the I-Purge with the Isolator™ Adaptor Kit into a one sided plug. An Isolator can be used to close off the end of a pipe for servicing, cleaning, inspection or sealing. The I-Purge modular system can be used multiple times due to its durable construction and high quality components. Aquasol Corporation has simplified the purging process with a unique, patent pending product. Bladders are available in sizes from 2" to 48" diameter pipe and may be purchased either individually or as a complete unit, a distinct advantage should a bladder be lost or blown. Acquasol Corporation – USA Website: www.aquasolcorporation.com

gas continues to purge during welding to maintain an oxygen-free environment. Failure to eliminate oxygen can result in porosity, corrosion and premature failure of the joint due to cracking. To ascertain a quality weld, complete evacuation of oxygen is necessary. The I-Purge modular system is comprised of two spark-resistant inflatable bladders connected by a high heat resistant bridge harness. Unlike other models with permanent fittings, Aquasol’s model allows for the creation of a pipe reducer by simply connecting two bladders of different yet similar diameters. Equipped with quick connect fittings, components easily snap on and off in seconds. Operators can select from variety of standard harness lengths and customise length based on particular need. This enables the placement of the bladders outside the HAZ (heat affected zone). The extremely flexible harnesses enable navigation through 90° elbows and tees. The central point of the high heat bridge harness is marked with a luminescent indicator to easily align the centre of the unit with the root gap.

AQUASOL Corporation, inventor of the internationally recognised and patented pre-formed water soluble EZ Purge ® Dams, has announced the launch of an alternate purging device, the patent-pending I-Purge™ modular inflatable bladder systems. I-Purge modular systems permit the operator to combine various components to create a customised solution. Creating a near-perfect weld is the result of selection of the best purging equipment combined with using a skilled welder well versed in proper technique. Aquasol’s I-Purge modular system provides an air-tight seal enabling achievement of an oxidation-free weld and even penetration beads on all pipe joints. Pipework involves the inert gas welding process of arc welding. Amolten weld pool is shielded from atmospheric contamination by flooding the area with an inert gas such as argon or noble gas mix (argon and helium). The inert gas is pumped into the dammed area. Since argon has a greater density, it will naturally displace the oxygen. The pre-purge displaces oxygen inside a pipe with an inert gas. The inert

The I-Purge system

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J anuary 2014