TPT March 2024

The international magazine for the tube & pipe industries

ISSN 0953-2366

MARCH 2024

VOL 37 NO 2

US$33

FIMIGroup Hall 6 Stand D01

> STRUCTURAL & MECHANICAL > PRECISION > WELDING & THREADING > UNDER PRESSURE, WATER & AQUEOS FLUIDS > OCTG API > LINE PIPE API

FIMI Tube & Pipe Mills can be composed in different ways in order to better adapt to the requests of the customer and the quality to obtain. > TRADITIONAL FORMING > LINEAR CAGE FORMING > DIRECT FORMING

FIMI Group via dell’Industria, 15 | Viganò (LC) | Italy Phone +39 039 92141 | info@fimigroup.it

min

max

4 - 8 Number of cameras

5 Min. object diameter (mm)

720 Max. object diameter (mm)

PROFILEMASTER® SPS Profile Measuring System The PROFILEMASTER® SPS is a light section measuring device for measuring contours and dimensions on profiles of all kinds in cold and hot steel applications.

Benefits:

Highest measuring accuracy due to thermally stabilised measuring unit Surface defect detection based on intelligent software algorithms (Utilising machine learning) Detection of smallest defects due to high sampling rate Designed for measuring complex profiles from rebar’s to train rails Easy maintenance and quick cleaning thanks to proven concept

Zumbach Electronic AG | Hauptstrasse 93 | 2552 Orpund | Schweiz Telefon: +41 (0)32 356 04 00 | Fax: +41 (0)32 356 04 30 | sales@zumbach.ch | www.zumbach.com

INDEX Editorial

3R solutions...............................................58, 85 Alleima............................................................118 Asahi/America Inc..........................................123 Bridgestone HosePower................................125 Bültmann GmbH..............................................57 BWE Ltd...........................................................83 Camu Srl..........................................................78 Carmo.............................................................. 70 Condoroil Stainless..........................................89 Controle Mesure Systemes..............................77 Danfoss.......................................................... 125 Dietronic Srl.....................................................43 Dreistern GmbH & Co KG................................76 EJP Maschinen GmbH.....................................94 EMMEDI........................................................... 89 ESAB. .............................................................. 73 Forsstrom HF...................................................70 Forth Engineering............................................36 Fronius UK.......................................................49 FVB UK..........................................................122 GF Piping Systems........................................121 Global Industrie 2024.......................................34 Graebener Maschinentechnik GmbH & Co KG...8 Inductotherm Heating & Welding.....................64 INEOS............................................................ 126

ISEND SA........................................................83 KASTO Ltd.......................................................54 Kemppi............................................................. 63 Kinkelder.......................................................... 47 Kusakabe......................................................... 15 Lantek.............................................................. 16 The Laser Cutting Company............................32 LB Sidertech....................................................18 Paul Leibinger GmbH & Co KG.......................76 Magnetic Analysis Corp................................... 78 Mair Research..................................................86 Mastercam....................................................... 27 McElroy............................................................ 26 Messe Düsseldorf............................................27 Metalube Group...............................................95 Mill Masters Inc................................................85 Moreschi Srl.....................................................80 NIMAK GmbH..................................................61 Nordson Measurement & Control Solutions.....39 NS Máquinas Industriais..................................39 Nukon Lasers UK.............................................28 Numalliance..................................................... 94 Peninsular De Vástagos SL............................119 Pixargus GmbH................................................22 Polysoude SAS................................................68

Poppe + Potthoff GmbH..................................119 QASS GmbH....................................................10 Quaker Houghton.............................................12 Raynar. ............................................................ 44 RichardsApex Inc.............................................77 Rohmann GmbH..............................................80 SEUTHE GmbH...............................................92 Sofratest........................................................... 91 Spotti Sergio Coil Processing Srl.....................50 Strohm. .......................................................... 121 Synovate.........................................................118 T-DRILL Oy...................................................... 38 TRUMPF.......................................................... 68 Ucimu-Sistemi Per Produrre............................30 Uniflex-Hydraulik GmbH . ................................. 41 Unison Ltd........................................................95 Upcast Oy........................................................86 Valve World Expo 2024..................................127 Weil Technology GmbH....................................10 Xiris Automation............................................... 57 Yamazaki Mazak....................................9, 20, 67 Zekelman Industries.......................................120 Zumbach Electronic.........................................52

2

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

CONTENTS 2 Editorial index 8 Industry news 9 Diary of tube events 38 Technology news 56 Tube welding machines & technology 74 Industry 360

Editor

Rory McBride

Design & production

Lisa Wright

Sales & marketing

Jason Smith UK, Italy, USA, Canada, India & ROW jason@intras.co.uk Tel: +44 1926 834684 Linda Li Asia 亚洲 linda@intras.co.uk Tel: +44 1926 834685

Advertising co-ordinator

Liz Hughes

Subscriptions

Louise Jennings

Accounts manager

Louise Jennings

Web Design/Developer

Andrew Barnes

Social Media Administrator Milly Harrison

Founder

John C Hogg

76 Tube Düsseldorf 2024 114 Intras 40 th anniversary 140 Advertisers index

All rights reserved – © Intras Ltd ISSN 0953-2366

Published by Intras Ltd Unit 32, Tangent Business Hub,

Shirebrook, Nottinghamshire NG20 8RX UK Tel: +44 1926 334137 • Fax: +44 1926 314755 Email: tpt@intras.co.uk • Website: www.read-tpt.com

Intras USA Danbury Corporate Center, 107 Mill Plain Road, Danbury CT 06811, USA Tel: +1 203 794 0444 • Email: doug@intras.co.uk

March issue • Business & market news 117 Tube Products INTERNATIONAL www.read-tpi.com The trade magazine for tube and pipe products www.read-tpi.com March 2024

This publication and its full contents of layout, text, images, and graphics is copyright protected. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any other storage or retrieval system without the publisher’s written permission. The publisher, owners, agents, printers, editors and contributors cannot be held responsible for and hereby exclude all liability whatsoever for errors, omissions or the accuracy and claims printed or inferred in the editorial or advertisements published in this, previous or subsequent editions or for any damages, costs or losses caused thereby. Tube & Pipe Technology reserves the right to edit, reword and subedit all editorial submissions in accordance with editorial policy. Tube & Pipe Technology expressed graphically or by text is a registered name and style trademark of Intras Ltd, UK. All matters relating to this disclaimer are governed by the laws of England. US Copies only: Tube & Pipe Technology (ISSN No: 0953-2366, USPS No: 023-507) is published six times a year: January, March, May, July, September and November by Intras Ltd and distributed in the USA by Asendia USA, 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA. Periodicals postage paid at Philadelphia, PA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Tube & Pipe Technology, 701 Ashland Ave, Folcroft PA 19032.

Stainless Tube production high standards & absolute customization

• Valve and actuator industry are essential for the future of plant automation

ARTICLES

130

Data collection and implementation of IIoT enabled equipment for HF welding in the tube and pipe industry By Olexandra Tupalo, manager, Thermatool Labs Energy use reduction and no VOCs with UV LED tube coatings technology By Michael Kelly, chief customer office, Allied UV Mandrels with aluminium-bronze functional surface produced by thermal cladding technology By Pavel Doubek, Kevin Quinn, Luboš Fišar from OMNI-X

134

Tube & Pipe Technology magazine is available in print and online. Go to www.read-tpt.com for more information.

138

The Professional Publishers Association Member

When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

The March Issue Welcome to the latest issue of

March 2024 Vol 37 No 2

Tube & Pipe Technology magazine, which is our Tube Düsseldorf 2024 Show Special. We are also extremely proud to be celebrating the 40 th anniversary of our company in this issue (see page 114).

Rory McBride – Editor

Within its pages you will find a preview of some of the innovations that will be on display at the event in April by the magnificent Rhine river (see page 76). We also have the full Tube 2024 listing to help you navigate the event. There are more than 1,100 tube companies this year – a significant rise on 2022. For that reason it will be a particularly exciting show as we see the full global tube industry return to Germany in 2024. At the last Tube a few corners of the world were sadly still in lockdown and unable to attend. Tube Düsseldorf is at the heart of the industry, so it is vital that the entire world can visit or exhibit. I read that more than two thirds of those taking part last time were able to secure serious sales leads. The secret is simple – the convenience of face-to-face discussions. A buyer is able to see the latest machines in operation with their own eyes and ask questions of the people who designed and built them. This issue we also have a number of in-depth technical articles from expert writers: Olexandra Tupalo at Thermatool (page 130); Michael Kelly of Allied UV (page 134); and Pavel Doubek, Kevin Quinn and Luboš Fišar of OMNI-X (page 138). All of the writers look at recent technological advances that offer multiple benefits to tube producers around the globe. Enjoy the magazine. world for design, construction and commissioning of complete plants and machines for coil processing, performing in total autonomy thanks to the quality and completeness of its services. FIMI’s success speaks for itself: more than 1,500 plants installed worldwide and many of these – even those installed back in the 1970s – are still working successfully. During its 60 years of activity, FIMI has always focused on constant development based on the search for technologically advanced solutions, always giving priority to the performance and high quality of its products. FIMI Machinery is a leader in the field of design, construction and commissioning of coil processing plants and machines. The high quality of its products, which are distinguished by their high technological content, guarantees consistently high performance for customers. FIMI Tube & Pipe Mills can be composed in different ways in order to better adapt to the requests of the customer and the quality to obtain. > TRADITIONAL FORMING > LINEAR CAGE FORMING > DIRECT FORMING > STRUCTURAL & MECHANICAL > PRECISION > WELDING & THREADING > UNDER PRESSURE, WATER & AQUEOS FLUIDS > OCTG API > LINE PIPE API FIMI Group via dell’Industria, 15 | Viganò (LC) | Italy Phone +39 039 92141 | info@fimigroup.it Cover_TP.02.2024.indd 1 22/02/24 14:49 FIMIGroup Hall 6 Stand D01 The international magazine for the tube & pipe industries VOL 37 NO 2 US$33 MARCH 2024 ISSN0953-2366 On the cover . . . Founded in 1963 in Viganò, near Lecco, Italy, FIMI Group ranks among the top three companies in the

15-19 April 2024 Düsseldorf, Germany

76

59

41

38

INDUSTRY Specialist milling technology for weld seam preparation of cylindrical and conical pipes

transporter. The machines are designed to prepare the connecting seams of the huge cones and cylinders that make up the monopiles for the submerged arc welding process. Monopiles, in turn, are foundations for offshore wind farms – large steel columns with a wall thickness of up to 150mm, diameters of up to 15m, lengths of up to 100m and unit weights of up to 2,500 tons. Monopiles consist of a large number of steel rings (pipe sections) that are welded together. Due to their huge diameters of up to 15m, the sections are made from several individual plates. This production method results in both longitudinal and circumferential seams: longitudinal seams during the production of the shells, circumferential seams when joining the sections together. Both inside and outside edges must be precisely bevelled prior to welding the individual parts together. The more precise the bevels, the more resilient the weld seams and therefore the complete monopile will be. The Graebener seam milling process provides a uniform joint width and depth over the entire circumference of the pipe. Further, the precisely milled joints allow an uncomplicated visual inspection of the internal root of the weld seam without prior cleaning, enabling the quality of the internal weld seam to be visually inspected directly. This means that weld seam defects can be reduced to zero per cent. Last but not least, automatic seam preparation is a necessary requirement for an automatic multi-wire submerged arc welding process, given the fact that the seam detection sensor requires clean joint edges.

been manufacturing wind towers in the port of Bilbao since 2018. By entering into monopile production, the company is expanding the facility by adding another hall segment. Production is scheduled to start in the second quarter of this year. Graebener supplied a 55kW longitudinal seam milling machine including an innovative pipe turning device, which is designed for turning and positioning cones. The scope of supply further includes a 55kW circumferential seam milling machine with a special height adapter and a substructure that enables the circ seam milling machine to be positioned and aligned quickly to the circumferential seams of the monopile sections to be processed by means of a self-propelled modular

HAIZEA Wind Group has been working with Graebener since it began trading in 2017. In 2018 Graebener supplied a 55kW longitudinal seam milling machine and two 55kW circumferential seam milling machines for Haizea’s wind tower production in Bilbao, Spain. Haizea is now entering the monopile market and is relying on two further milling machines for weld seam preparation from the custom machine builder from Germany. This time with a recently developed pipe turning device for turning and positioning cylindrical and conical pipes. This is used to align the pipes above the longitudinal seam milling machine for seam processing. The pipe weight can be up to 125 tons. Haizea is a global player in the onshore and offshore industry. The company has

Graebener Maschinentechnik GmbH & Co KG www.graebener.com

The machine is used to prepare weld seams on monopile pipe sections

8

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

DIARY OF EVENTS

2024 25-28 March Global Industrie Paris, France www.global-industrie.com

Tube cutting with the new CNC and CAD/CAM software

15-19 April Tube Düsseldorf Düsseldorf, Germany www.tube.de

YAMAZAKI Mazak is exhibiting the FT 150 FIBER – a laser tube processing machine designed for high-speed cutting of small to medium diameter tubes – at Tube 2024. The machine will be controlled by a new tube cutting CNC that is being exhibited for the first time in Europe. The FT-150 FIBER can cut round, square and rectangular pipe with diameters up to 152.4mm – dimensions that are typically used in the construction, furniture and architectural industries, as well as for vehicle body frames. For the first time in Europe the machine will be controlled by SmoothTUBE CNC. It features a new graphical user interface that makes the utilisation of the control simple and intuitive and also a new human machine interface that has a number of benefits for the operator, including easy production scheduling and programming. With the dual monitor it is also possible to run multiple applications simultaneously, such as production status and cutting conditions. The FT-150 FIBER can cut a wide variety of materials, such as mild steel, stainless steel, copper, brass and aluminium and can perform multiple processes including cutting and thermal drilling. The machine maximises productivity by reducing the requirement for secondary processes such as deburring and hole tapping. Key features are included in the machine design to deliver accurate and high-quality cutting. These include support units for long workpiece materials to prevent sagging during the cut, a tilting laser head that enables highly accurate bevel cutting and an internal spatter guard that prevents burning to the internal workpiece surface. There are also options for a rotary tool spindle for tapping holes and thermal drilling. The FT-150 FIBER is also equipped with automatic functions, including auto

15-19 April MACH 2024 Birmingham, UK www.machexhibition.com

Mazak will exhibit the FT-150 FIBER at Tube 2024 equipped with new SmoothTUBE CNC

11-13 May China (Guangzhou) International Metal and Metallurgy Exhibition Guangzhou, China www.julang.com.cn

profiler calibration and nozzle cleaning to further enhance productivity. Operator safety was a high priority during the design of the machine, specifically the use of a fully enclosed cover that shields the cutting area and the internal loading and unloading area. The laser processing machine is available in four different options, each with a 3kW resonator, that can be specified depending upon the length of the workpiece material being machined, from 6,500mm up to 8,000mm. Mazak will also show for the first time in Europe the new CAD/CAM software, TUBE DX that has been developed to make programming and drawing import operations simple and fast. Mazak will also exhibit Mazak iCONNECT, a new digital service for existing Mazak customers that has a suite of free services including product manuals and e-learning, along with a Machine-2-Mazak subscription service. Gaetano Lo Guzzo, director laser business Europe at Yamazaki Mazak, said: “The FT-150 FIBER with our new specialist tube CNC is the product of Mazak’s dedication to developing exceptional laser machines that use the latest technology and intelligent functions to drive speed and accuracy. We are excited to give a European debut to the new SmoothTUBE CNC, which is a step-change for tube cutting.” Mazak will be located at stand 5 C17 for the duration of Tube Düsseldorf.

11-13 June FABTECH Canada Toronto, Canada www.canada.fabtechexpo.com 25-28 September Tube China 2024 Shanghai, China www.tubechina.net 15-17 October FABTECH Orlando, Florida, USA www.fabtechexpo.com 22-25 October EuroBlech Hanover, Germany www.euroblech.com 27-29 November Tube India Mumbai, India www.tube-india.com 3-5 December ValveWorld Expo Düsseldorf, Germany www.valveworldexpo.com

Yamazaki Mazak www.mazakeu.com

All shows are correct at the time of going to print, but are subject to change. Please check to ensure the event is going ahead

www.read-tpt.com

INDUSTRY

Tube drawing efficiency without chatter marks THE German company QASS has been a reliable partner in the automotive industry for nearly two decades. It is known for its advanced inline crack detection systems based on structure borne sound analysis. Over the past three years, QASS has filed for a patent for its tube drawing and implemented its sensors in 10 facilities across Europe and north America. Major industry names, including Bueltmann, Voestalpine and Mannesmann Precision Tubes, are now benefiting from the innovative acoustic emission analysis of the QASS Optimizer4D. “The optimisation of the tube drawing process through the fully automatic control of the machines has not only significantly increased the average drawing speed, but also allows for perfectly adjusted breaking actions thanks to our specially programmed software,” said Ulrich Seuthe, CEO of QASS GmbH. The QASS software focuses on maximising the drawing speed, allowing users to set the maximum speed for different types of tubes. By gradually increasing the speed to the maximum and adjusting for increased chatter tendencies, using advanced AI and machine learning approaches, the system ensures a robust manufacturing process that combines high drawing speed with reject prevention. By using special structure-borne sound microphones, which are installed close to the drawing tools via a simple screw, QASS analyses forming and friction noises in real-time. The systems’ advanced spectral analysis enables the suppression of normal working sounds and the first detection of chatter tendencies. This early intervention, far before chatter noises become noticeable to humans, allows for an immediate adjustment of the drawing speed to stabilise the process. Furthermore, breaking and acceleration values are individually adjusted to the customers‘ machines and tube types to completely avoid chatter. QASS has identified indicators that occur before actual chatter begins and has designed the measuring process to detect these as early as possible. Enormous forces are exerted during pipe drawing. The entire plastic deformation takes place at the drawing die. QASS structure-borne sound sensors record everything that happens in the tube material

Three QASS sensors mounted on a tube drawing machine

and between the tools and the tube. Thanks to the ability to capture frequencies far beyond the human hearing threshold, even the smallest forming steps can be detected. “We carry out a spectral analysis of the machine vibrations 25,000 times per second and use this to compile a complete image of the drawing process. Our algorithms detect the earliest signs of chatter in these images, well before the signals become so strong that they are even noticed by the employee,” said Mr Seuthe. With data storage capacities of two terabytes and more, QASS measuring devices are capable of storing all data and analysing it through automatic training. This allows the system to detect the smallest indicators of chatter tendencies and respond accordingly. The support of common fieldbus systems and current standards in machine learning additionally enables a quick retrofitting of machines that were previously not equipped with a digital control unit. Furthermore, the integrated statistics modules provide a clear overview of drawing speeds, chatter tendencies and other process optimisations. Due to this innovative measuring technology and analysis using self-developed software, QASS has helped to revolutionise tube manufacturing and is increasing efficiency in the production process. For more information visit QASS at the Tube trade fair in Düsseldorf in at stand 6 C10.

QASS GmbH www.qass.net

Tube, container and battery company to tour global trade fairs during 2024

for cell contacting and the new positioning system for multi-track applications when punching fins for power coolers. It will also be showcasing its innovative solutions with laser, clamping and automation technologies in the field of container, tube and sheet production.

followed by the Hannover Messe in April, where it will also be exhibiting with its partners from the German Fuel Cell Cooperation and showing its production line for bipolar plates from metal strip to fuel cell or electrolyser stacks. In the field of e-mobility and battery technology, its trade fair presentations will focus on systems for laser welding metal bipolar plates and cooling plates,

WEIL Technology GmbH will once again be present at numerous trade fairs and congresses worldwide in the field of tube and container production, e-mobility and battery technology, for sheet metal assemblies and other applications in the field of sheet metal processing. It was recently in Japan for the first time at the H2 & FC Expo in Tokyo at the end of February 2024. This will be

Weil Technology GmbH www.weil-technology.com

10

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

Stand 5H16 See us at

INDUSTRY

UV protective tube coatings By Oriol Serra, regional product line and application manager, Quaker Houghton

the drying factor is eliminated from the equation (ambient temperature, humidity become less relevant). With current products, a protection of more than one year can be ensured by Quakercoat new products, proven by commercial usage in the market. Quaker Houghton has been supplying coating technology to the market of tubes and pipes for more than 20 years. Several generations have been developed during these past years always positioning Quaker Houghton coatings at the cutting edge of the tube and pipe market. Our experienced tube and pipe experts will work closely with your team to solve complex manufacturing challenges for seamless and welded operations. We apply our “front-to back” approach including not only a range of process fluids for the front end of pipe manufacturing, but also corrosion preventives and protective coatings to finish at the back end,

AS a producer of tubes, you may find yourself situated in a hostile environment, where environmental conditions are less than ideal for maintaining the metallic surface in optimal condition. High humidity, rainfall or snow and extreme cold are conducive to steel corrosion. Conversely, conditions involving high heat, sand, dirt, excessive solar radiation and the use of water with high salt content are unfavourable to the proper condition of pipes and tubing. Such conditions are crucial aspects in the application of coatings, especially water-based products. Humidity, ambient temperature, the presence of water, or other residues on the metal surface significantly influence the proper application of the coating and, consequently, the desired protection. All these environmental and product quality factors are diminished in importance with the use of UV products. Being cured in milliseconds through a radical reaction,

coupled with the expertise to provide customised solutions. Quaker Houghton can offer a complete portfolio of performance protective coatings ranging with all options to offer our customer the most relevant proposal for specific projects, environmental conditions and health and safety requirements. The tube and pipes market has greatly evolved through time together with UV technology and Quaker Houghton is introducing our new enhancements, Quakercoat ® 027 and Quakercoat ® 037, which offer several advantages over existing technology.

Quaker Houghton www.quakerhoughton.com

12

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

The Industry Standard Since 1910

Leaders in Roll Forming Solutions

Wide range of mill lines : Most economical M-style, quick change QVW-style, and heavy duty WH-style roll stand products Various welding technologies available : Forge welding (HF solid state or ERW) and fusion welding (laser, TIG, and plasma Ability to fit special accessories: Single point adjustment (SPA), SPA Plus, and the latest TruPosition Auto SPA (servo driven top shaft adjustment with linear transducer feedback)

With over 100 years of experience, the American made and locally sourced Yoder brand remains a leader in the development of new tube and pipe mill lines, innovative roll forming techniques, and precision tooling. Formtek continues production of Yoder’s exceptional tube and pipe mill technology designating its position as the largest, dependable mill machinery designer and manufacturer in the world. The versatility of Yoder technology allows it to accommodate varying pipe lengths, end conditions, and budgets. Formtek is also recognized as an industry leader with its utilization of specialized drive train platforms to extend and maximize product life, while minimizing maintenance. Yoder tube and pipe mill products employ several different welding technologies to provide the most customized machines available. Yoder products are efficient and adaptable with unsurpassed quality and reliability providing a competitive edge.

Schedule a No Obligation, 1-on-1 Consultation with a Yoder Technical Advisor today to learn more our tube and pipe solutions and see how we can help you achieve your operational objectives.

Visit FormtekGroup.com/TubeandPipe

Leading Metal Forming & Fabrication Solutions formtekgroup.com | +1 216.292.4460

STEEL AND TUNGSTEN CARBIDE ROLLS FOR TUBE AND WIRE

Tube and wire rolls could be challenging for their dimensions, material or final product standards.

Atomat is ready to accept the challenge, relying on:

many years of experience wide network of efficient partners state of the art equipment

DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY 15 - 19 APRIL 2024 HALL 05 STAND 5G19

Atomat SpA Headquarter Strada di Oselin 16 int. 17 33047 Remanzacco (Udine) | ITALY

Tel +39 0432 648511 Fax +39 0432 667101

info@atomat.com www.atomat.com

INDUSTRY

Fast speed punch cut-off for US-based conduit tube mill commissioned A HIGH-SPEED punch cut-off from Kusakabe has been successfully commissioned and is now in operation in the US. The cut-off is part of an electrical conduit tube mill that has been installed in a leading electrical conduit tube manufacturer in the US. The maximum line speed is 1,100ft/min at 10ft in length, which is considerably higher than 800ft/min, which was achieved before installing this new tube mill at the Chicago, US-based plant. To achieve these extremely high production speeds, the most critical component of the tube mill is the cut-off. Kusakabe has a variety of cut-offs for this purpose and the high-speed punch cut-off is the one selected for this application. The die set weight is light because it is comprises of carbon fibre material and, thanks to such a light weight, 1,100fts/ min has been achieved in a stable status. In addition, the punch cut method is unique and is not a traditional blade reciprocating method.

Kusakabe offers a wide range of efficient cut-off machines

The blade, which is mounted with the main shaft that is rotated by the electrical motor, rotates and cuts tubes that are located on the rotating path. This unique blade rotation mechanism has enabled the punch cut-off machine to cut 110 cuts/min because cutting cycle time can be drastically shortened. The blade profile has been specially design for dimple free cutting, which is generally a mandatory feature for conduit tube production lines.

Kusakabe www.kusakabe.com

DRAWING STRAIGHTENING PEELING

BARS TUBES PROFILES

Bültmann GmbH www.bueltmann.com

Contact us: +49 2394 180 info@bueltmann.com

INDUSTRY

Nukon partners with Lantek on tube project LASER manufacturer Nukon is one of Lantek’s OEM collaborative partners – combining the 2D and 3D technology of Nukon’s lasers, with the expertise Lantek brings with its Lantek Expert software for programming 2D lasers and its Flex3D software for tube cutting lasers. profile. Nukon machines also feature Beckhoff controls and drives, piercing and cut sensors and automatic nozzle changing as well as options for load/ unload automation.

machinery to the aerospace, oil & gas and automotive industries for over 50 years. After thoroughly investigating the fibre laser market we partnered with Nukon. With its technology we can offer a technically advanced machine to our customers and, by partnering with Lantek, our customers are productive within days of the machine installation.” According to Mr Haddrell, 2D laser technology is very mature and the quality of the Lantek software is a factor in separating Nukon from its competitors. He added: “Lantek has all the essentials such as heat dissipation, job estimates, film burning for plastic coated sheet, common line cutting and powerful nesting, ensuring optimum yield from the material processed.” The Nukon lasers offer advanced technology using US made, high quality nLIGHT resonators, which offer CutLine adaptive beam control ‘on the fly’ during cutting. One of the benefits of the CutLine system is a smoother finish on thicker materials via the tuneable beam

Its range of tube machines includes the NK-T160, which has up to 4kW power and can process 226mm diameter tube and U L H and I sections up to 160mm 2 with minimal scrap. These machines can be coupled with auto load/unload systems or conveyer or roller systems to cut the whole or part length of the section being processed. Adam Ball, Lantek UK software solutions manager, said: “As well as providing software for cutting machines, we can integrate with existing business systems within a company and extend administrative capabilities through Lantek MES, quoting and CRM systems. These specialist sheet metal systems work transparently together.”

Nukon Lasers UK, the company’s UK and Ireland distributor, has been working with Lantek’s UK office for two years and has already collaborated in the installation of multiple machines. Steve Haddrell, sales director at Nukon Lasers UK, said: “We are part of the Unison Ltd family of companies, which has been manufacturing and selling high-end tube bending

Lantek www.lantek.com

Conform™ Extrusion Technology for Refrigeration & Capillary Tube Continuous extrusion from a single aluminium rod The Continuous Rotary Extrusion (CRE) machine converts a single aluminium rod (9.5mm or 12.0mm Ø) into finished round or multi-port tube in various sizes to customer specifications. BWE’s patented Induction Heated Tooling System enables the machine to continuously extrude aluminium tube with a very thin wall thickness (down to 0.35mm). Small Capillary Tubes are also possible.

Watch a short video of a recently-installed Conform™ 315i line in Brazil

BWE Ltd

For more information visit: www.bwe.co.uk Contact: +44 1233 627736 or kevinbennett@bwe.co.uk

16

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

MASTERING PROCESSES DOWN TO THE SMALLEST DETAIL EXPLORE HORN

Top quality comes from pairing the optimal machining process with the perfect tool. HORN combines cutting-edge technology with outstanding performance and reliability.

Visit us at

15.– 19. April 2024 Hall 6 | Stand 6A16

horn-group.com

INDUSTRY

LB Sidertech signs important agreement for global ferrite core distribution

it deserves. We have stock available in both Europe and India. In addition, new sub distributors are currently under discussion so that we will be ready to satisfy export all over the world. We also offer specific technical service to optimise the dimensions of the impeders made with our ferrites.” He added: “Improving welding efficiency means that the user can save significant energy, improve production yield, reduce line stops and minimise scrap as well as needing to use less valuable downtime for impeder replacement processes. Technical, free consultancy services are one of our strongest points during sales activities. We are not merely looking for customers, we look to become your partner supplier.”

LB SIDERTECH has signed an important agreement in the high frequency welded steel tube market. After 35 years operating in the welded steel tube industry, and having played an important role in the development of several global brands, Luca Briganti, owner of LB Sidertech Srl, based in Italy, has signed a major agreement for the development of a new brand of ferrite cores (impeder cores) with the company Star Sintered Products Ltd, which is based in India. The Varshney family, owners of the India-based group, has been operating in the industry for more than 30 years. The company works in the automotive electronic equipment industry as well as many other markets. It offers a wide range of sintered metal products (steel, copper, hard and soft ferrites) which are all custom made. The family have a strong relationship with LB Sidertech

and its owner Mr Briganti. Together they have decided to further improve and develop specific ferrites for high frequency welding of steel pipes. Mr Briganti said: “We have been selling this product for many years, but we decided to now brand it to have the worldwide visibility that we believe

LB Sidertech www.lbsidertech.com

18

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

FOCUS IN UPCAST ®

The UPCAST ® continuous casting technology has been a jewel since its birth – a result of technical innovation and process know-how. The legacy continues: consistent high quality is still everything.

Upward casting since 1968

15 - 19 April 2024 Düsseldorf, Germany Visit us at 9C06

®

UPCAST OY , PORI, FINLAND www.upcast.com

INDUSTRY

NEO range and focus on automation boosts tube laser sales

into both OEMs and subcontractors, with particularly strong results in medical – a sector that requires exceptional accuracy and cut quality.” The strength of Mazak’s service offering for laser users has also driven market share, the company believes. Mr White added: “Mazak has invested in its service and support for customers, and we now have 25 applications staff ready to advise. We have also introduced our industry-first 24-hour service hotline for laser users, which is available even if the machine is not under warranty or a service contract. The hotline enables customers to speak with a UK-based engineer to get their machines back up and running at any time of the day.” Automation has also proved to be a successful selling point for Mazak, with the company now boasting the largest range of automation options available. Mr White said: “We have an

THE new NEO range of laser processing machines, and a strong focus on customer service, has helped Yamazaki Mazak record its most successful ever year for laser sales in 2023. The NEO range, which complements Mazak’s 2D laser and 3D tube cutting machines, has opened up new markets for the company within both OEMs and subcontractors. Ian White, general sales manager laser products for Yamazaki Mazak, said the NEO machines – including the Optiplex NEO 20kW, a 2D fiber laser with 3015 and 4220 bed sizes, and the FG 400 NEO fiber laser for long tubes, pipes and structural materials – have added new capability to the Mazak laser range. He added: “The NEO machines have helped us penetrate new markets, particularly where laser users are working with heavy plate – in the energy and construction sectors, for example. We’ve also recorded a good mix of sales

exceptionally large automation range with more than 50 options for customers due to our use of Mazak’s Open Robot Interface technology, which means virtually any automation system can be fitted to our machines. We can also design bespoke systems tailored to individual customer production requirements.” Mr White said the opening of the European Laser Technology Centre in Milan has also helped promote Mazak’s laser range and he is confident that 2024 will deliver more success. Mazak’s Optiplex 3015 NEO is one of several new laser processing machines that helped the company achieve a successful year

Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd www.mazakeu.co.uk

20

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

F OREVER Shijiazhuang Forever Machinery Co., Ltd.

F OREVER Shijiazhuang Forever Machinery Co., Ltd.

HF Tube/Pipe Mill Line Cold Roll Forming Machine Slitting Line and Cut-to-length Line Directly Forming to Square and Rectangular Tube Mill Line Tube/Pipe Mill Line ld Roll Forming Machine tting Line and Cut-to-length Line ectly Forming to Square and Rectangular Tube Mill Line

www.pipemill.cn

INDUSTRY

Tube measurement specialist joins CiTEX MEASURING technology specialist Pixargus, a global company working in optical inline quality control, is increasing its activities in US and Asian markets under the umbrella of CiTEX Holding GmbH.

inspection algorithms. Thus, they can provide important real-time quality data for the line operator. The Pixargus systems also integrate third-party sensors, transmits data to downstream processes and can be part of complex automation processes such as control loops. Building on the data know-how provided by Pixargus, CiTEX intends to take its R&D activities to the next level by developing advanced, future oriented and cloud-based solutions for the extrusion industry. Pixargus is now a wholly owned subsidiary of CiTEX Holding GmbH. Promoting and developing innovative, cross-sectoral technology for industry, in particular the extrusion industry, is the stated mission of CiTEX Holding. The company sees its main role as providing a business and technology platform for its specialised subsidiaries and as an incubator for innovations.

partners co-operating in the field of extrusion technology. While Pixargus brings to bear its knowhow in optical profile inspection, CiTEX subsidiary iNOEX has access to a worldwide customer base and a sales network in the US and Asia. With its X-ray and radar technology, iNOEX is an expert in measuring systems for round products, with a focus on tube wall inspection. This is a perfect complement to Pixargus’ successful AllRounDia DualVision technology – a camera-based system that performs both outside surface inspection and dimension measurement of tubes and hoses with just one sensor head. The combined momentum of these subsidiaries will further boost CiTEX’ position as a supplier of sensing and measuring technology for extrusion lines. A further strong point of the measuring technology experts is their data competence. At the production lines, the optical systems from Pixargus operate within a fully integrated network, using proprietary software and intelligent

Many manufacturers of automotive rubber profiles use Pixargus systems to inspect the surfaces and measure the dimensions of their products. Pixargus’ successful ProfilControl series is now in its 7 th generation. The inline systems from the town of Würselen, near Aachen in Germany are in use in 24/7 manufacturing environments in a wide range of industries, including construction and engineering, health care products and consumer goods. Formed as a start-up at RWTH Aachen University almost 25 years ago, the company has flourished to become a leading supplier of systems for optical inline quality control in extrusion lines. As a subsidiary of CiTEX, Pixargus is now hoping to expand and grow. CiTEX is a group of specialised

Pixargus GmbH www.pixargus.de

SMART PIPE-SHOP AUTOMATION

Turnkey Pipe-Shop Projects Worldwide

Industry 4.0 Ready Smart Factories

Optimal Integration of Software & Machines

Full Fabrication Traceability

Full Scope Fabrication & QA/QC Software

More than 40 Years of Experience

Visit us at TUBE April 15-19 2024 Booth 5A12

Düsseldorf, Germany

GET YOUR SOLUTION 3R solutions Kleistr. 39 59073 Hamm Germany

+49 2381 9724 710 info@3R.de www.3R.de

22

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

INDUSTRY

McElroy names Michael Grant as new vice-president

of operations MCELROY, a leading designer and manufacturer of thermoplastic fusion equipment, has appointed Michael Grant as the vice president of operations. “We’re thrilled to have Michael come to McElroy,” said McElroy president and CEO Chip McElroy. “For more than 30 years, he has shown tremendous ability to coach and develop strong leadership teams and foster a culture of operational excellence. “As we celebrate McElroy’s 70 th anniversary, we know that Michael’s presence will help continue to help the company not only grow, but also thrive.” After graduating from Oklahoma State University with a degree in mechanical design technology, Mr Grant received an MBA from Southwestern College in Winfield, Kansas, US.

He began his career with Texas Instruments, developing CNC programs for Department of Defense machined components. From there, he branched into design, prototype and manufacturing engineering roles, where he took on various leadership positions, including in aircraft manufacturing, consumer home goods and construction equipment. Mr Grant spent the last eight years with the Toro Company, joining as vice president of operations and supply chain before becoming managing director of construction operations. “I am honoured and excited to become a part of McElroy Manufacturing, a company known for safety excellence, product innovation, quality commitment, exceptional customer service and

Michael Grant

deep manufacturing capabilities,” Mr Grant said. “I look forward to coming alongside the talented and dedicated team at McElroy to help write the next exciting chapter in the company’s storied history.”

McElroy www.mcelroy.com

^ KE , E D ,/E Zz – Z s DW/E' – Yh >/dz Θ ^ Zs/ EUROMAQUINA

hZKD Yh/E ^͘ >͘ WĂƐĞŽ ĚĞ ůĂ ĂƐƚĞůůĂŶĂ͕ Ϯϰϴ ĂũŽ – ϮϴϬϰϲ D Z/ d >͗ ;нϯϰͿ ϵϭϲ ϱϴϳ ϮϲϬ – ĐŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂůΛĞƵƌŽŵĂƋƵŝŶĂ͘ ĐŽŵ ǁǁǁ͘ ĞƵƌŽŵĂƋƵŝŶĂ͘ ĐŽŵ dƵďĞƐ – ĂƌƐ – tŝƌĞ – ^ŚĞĞƚ – ĞĂŵƐ

26

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

INDUSTRY

Messe Düsseldorf expands machinery portfolio in Turkey MESSE Düsseldorf has added three new satellites to its global metal trade fair portfolio with the addition of interna- tional trade fairs for the metallurgy, foundry and aluminium industries – Ankiros/Turkcast And Aluexpo. Two of the biggest German trade fair companies are co-operating in a joint venture in the Turkish market – Messe Düsseldorf GmbH and Deutsche Messe AG will hold a 50 per cent share each in Hannover Messe Ankiros Fuarcilik AS. Independently of this move, Messe Düsseldorf and Tüyap Fairs Istanbul will also continue to jointly develop the wire Eurasia and Tube Eurasia events after their successful debut in 2023. “We are delighted with this big step towards developing further market-relevant topics from the metal industry in Turkey,” said Friedrich-Georg Kehrer, global portfolio director at Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. He added: “With its economic appeal Turkey is also a flourishing marketplace at the interface between Europe and Asia for the key technologies wire, cable and tubes and pipes.” Over the past few years Turkey has made major investments in housing, road construction, bridges and rail infrastructure. Other major construction projects are also underway. This fuels a high demand for wire, cable and tubes and pipes as well as metallurgy and foundry products. Turkey therefore offers excellent economic prospects and has an attractive location due to the fact it acts as a bridge between Europe and Asia. Thanks to its large domestic market and strong industrial base, Turkey has long been an important trading partner for Germany and North Rhine Westphalia. In 2022 the volume of trade between Germany and Turkey totalled €27bn, with North Rhine-Westphalia accounting for €11.5bn (42.6 per cent). New Mastercam CFO MASTERCAM, which makes CAM software, has appointed Karen Gibbs as its new chief financial officer (CFO). Ms Gibbs will lead financial efforts in support of the company’s ongoing market expansion. Most recently Ms Gibbs worked in the software and automation industry, where she oversaw the entire organisational finance team and forecasting. Based in Connecticut, US she joins Mastercam as the CFO to continue to build on the company’s success. Messe Düsseldorf www.tube-eurasia.com

Mastercam www.mastercam.com

27

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024

INDUSTRY

Second sheet and tube fibre laser delivered JUST 18 months after purchasing the display machine from the Nukon Lasers UK stand at MACH 2022, Greater Manchester-based AD Laser Cutting Ltd has taken delivery of a second Nukon fibre laser. loading table, to better fit with the available floorspace at AD Laser Cutting’s brand new subcontract manufacturing facility, the Nukon REX also has a more powerful 6kW laser. This additional power will enable AD to precision-cut stainless steel of up to 25mm in thickness. demanded by our customers. Therefore, when it was time to grow the business and invest in a second fibre laser machine, it seemed pretty obvious that it should also come from Nukon Lasers UK. Also, from a commercial perspective, choosing Nukon again meant our guys could hit the ground running from day one.”

Whereas AD Laser Cutting’s first fibre laser was a Nukon ECO 315 4kW model, its new machine is from the European laser machine manufacturer’s REX model range. Just like Nukon’s ECO machines, the Nukon REX is able to accommodate flat sheet metal sizes of up to 3m x 1.5m. Chosen primarily for its side-mounted

“We couldn’t have imagined how much precision laser cutting work our first machine from Nukon Lasers UK would enable us to complete,” said AD Laser Cutting’s managing director, Darren Golden. “Projects undertaken have ranged from precision cutting stainless steel components for the utilities sector, to manufacturing furniture components, extraction panels and even stillages for a number of leading vehicle manufacturers. In fact, only a short while after installation, the Nukon ECO 315 machine was running at near full capacity. “It is extremely intuitive to program, easy to use, and has been trouble-free since it was installed. The quality of cut has more than met the high standards

With powerful 2D flat sheet metal cutting capability and optional pipe and tube cutting and marking features, Nukon REX machines have been purposefully designed for subcontractors and organisations cutting small batches of varying shapes and sizes. Nukon REX fibre lasers offer high-spec features that are standard across the wider Nukon range. These include advanced Lantek Expert CAD/CAM nesting software and American-made nLIGHT fibre lasers. The Nukon REX machine is also equipped with CutLine adaptive beam shaping technology.

AD Laser Cutting’s Nukon ECO 315 and Nukon REX fibre laser cutting machines

Nukon Lasers UK www.nukonlasers.co.uk

28

www.read-tpt.com

MARCH 2024