TPT May 2011

OCTG & P ipeline M anufacturing Italian technology for HDPE gas pipes

THE use of plastics such as HDPE in building and construction offers characteristics that can include flexibility, durability, non- toxicity and higher abrasion resistance. As polyethylene does not allow the growing of seaweed or bacteria, it is highly appropriate for civil infrastructures such as aqueducts. Ritmo SpA, Italy, manufactures welding machines for plastic pipes. For butt fusion for gas pipes Ritmo recommends its Delta Dragon CNC system, which allows automatic control of the welding process, eliminating operator error. It is available in two models, Delta Dragon 250 CNC and Delta Dragon 315 CNC, and in two versions: SA (Semi-Automatic) with manual removal of the heating plate; and FA (Fully Automatic) with automatic removal of the heating plate. The gearcase that manages the CNC system is equipped with a compact and innovative plastic casing, which can resist extreme working conditions. Special attention was paid to the connections and the application of military-type plugs. Easy-to- use software and control panel allow access to the most widely used welding standards (UNI, ISO, DVS and WIS). By selecting

one of these standards and adding the pipe diameter/SDR, the corresponding welding parameters (pressure, time and temperature) are automatically calculated. If the welding process about to be performed is not included in the standards listed, it is possible to manually input the welding parameters (diameter, SDR, type of material, welding time and pressure) in the ‘out of standard’ mode. In both cases, the machine is able to automatically manage all welding cycle phases, including milling and heating control. At the end of each welding cycle, all data is stored in the in-built memory, with a capacity of up to 600 records. The serial port enables connection to a portable serial printer (in order to obtain an immediate welding report) or to a PC, in which case it is possible to create a welding history database by using the specific Ritmo data management software. The machines also feature a quick clamp release system, known as SMARTLocK, and milling cutter with safety microswitch. It is also possible to apply lateral rollers, on request. The working range of the machines varies according to the model (both are

available in 110V and 230V): Delta Dragon 250 CNC from Ø 75 to 250mm; Delta Dragon 315 CNC from Ø 90 to 315mm. Ritmo also has a wide selection of models for use in electrofusion, such as the Elektra 800, a powerful and versatile universal electrofusion machine suitable for HDPE and PP couplings (from 8 to 48V), made in compliance with Italian and international standards. The Elektra 800 has easy-to-use software and control panel, and a large graphic display. It is supplied with an optical scanner/barcode reading system (or optical pen, on request) that allows the automatic reading and setting of welding parameters. Required values can also be input manually. The Elektra 800 has an in-built memory with a capacity of up to 4,000 welding cycles. Data can be downloaded through the USB port and handled on a PC by means of Ritmo

Transfer software. Ritmo SpA – Italy Fax: +39 049 9901993 Email: info@ritmo.it Website: www.ritmo.it

The Delta Dragon 250 CNC in action

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M ay 2011

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