Tube & Pipe Fabrication Equipment

Beyond pipe bending, shops often need different extension modules in order to document complete processes. With specialist t-project software from South-Westphalia, Transfluid connects centrally to the internal shop security system via networks to administer process data for sustainable production forming technology and data protection using an intuitive, Windows-based user-friendly platform that does not require intensive training. Three versions of this software are available to manage the different data requirements within pipe processing as single workplace or network versions.

The t-project Basic version converts isometrics into bending data that the pipe-bending machine can utilize directly. Correction values and overbending values are automatically calculated. The software calculates the sawing length in accordance with isometrics and material-specific data. To perform a simple, manual check on a bent part, the operator is provided with a measurement of the diagonal from the beginning to the end of the pipe. ‘Iges’ and ‘PCF’ software are some of the available interfaces that are used to connect to CAD, measurement machines and/or office programs. If the pipes are not drawn in CAD then the input of the geometry into the software is possible absolutely, relatively or via bending data. The software then converts the data into the relevant bending data, which can also be displayed and made available to other departments, such as product design.

The t-project Professional version offers the same basic configuration as the basic version but can also carry out a collision test to determine whether the pipe will collide with the machine or the machine environment. In the event of collision, the software will analyze all the dimensions of the machine that are relevant to devise solutions that allow the workpiece to be bent with slight modifications. Transfluid bending machines also process pipes that already have flanges or reforming, so the software is capable of calculating the position of the flange to control the machine accordingly. Excess lengths for reforming can be taken into account and automatically calculated.

The t-project Draft mobile tablet version offers more freedom and flexibility for special challenges. On a construction site, for example, if pipe data is not coming from the CAD then the data can be entered manually through the tablet version into the software, which may occur if the piping is in place and can be measured accordingly. This software makes it possible to measure and enter pipes isometrically. The data is also sent directly to the production department by e-mail, where fabrication can start right away while further pipe isometrics are collected at the construction site. Corresponding nesting software is also available for cut optimization and integration of separation lines.

Transfluid® Maschinenbau GmbH, Hünegräben 20-22, 57392 Schmallenberg, Germany, +49 2972 97150, www.transfluid.de, www.tube-processing-machines.com.

ALL ELECTRIC TUBE BENDER FOR HVAC APPLICATIONS
The 4-Runner from BLM Group USA (Wixom, MI) is a multi-purpose, multi-function compact tube bending machine that consolidates four separate fabrication steps into one continuous process for a variety of applications. The machine can be configured as a dedicated tube bender for a specific production application or a complete process that includes straightening from coil, bending, end-forming and cut off. The system provides maximum flexibility and manufacturing capability, while lowering investment cost due to process integration of a variety of operations.

The 4-Runner allows, within the same cycle, the ability to bend both right hand and left hand, in fixed and variable radius bends, in single and three-dimensional planes. The possibility of combining different bending technologies with different bending radii in the same part offers maximum flexibility, productivity and accuracy. Although used in a variety of applications, this system is ideal for the HVAC applications that help shops achieve their lean manufacturing objectives. With a footprint of 13.08 ft x 7.17 ft x 6.17 ft, this system is ideal for machining small to medium sized tubes and can bend tube to 0.89 in (22 mm) diameter with accuracy to ±0.05 in on the X-axis and ±0.05 deg on the Y- and Z-axis. The unit comes standard with a 2.76 in maximum bending radius, but an increased bend radius option is available. The machine is environmentally friendly, operating at a noise level of 65dB with no hydraulic oils and no filter replacement.

The unit incorporates VGP3D, a 3D visual graphic program for constant monitoring of the machine to assist in performance and operator ease of use. With VGP3D operators can generate a single machining program simply by entering geometric part data, automatically simulate the feasibility of the bending operation, change the running sequence directly in simulation mode, and calculate the real cycle time in advance.

The company has also introduced the BC80, a smaller yet highly productive and completely automated machine that is ideal for cut to length, chamfering, facing, boring and threading of tube and bar. The new technology is the next generation of integrated CNC end machining centers and is designed for 24-hour production processing tube up to 3.15 in (80 mm) diameter and lengths from 0.4 in to 13 in (10 mm to 350 mm). The unit is ideal for high-volume bushing production. The BC80 offers completely automated operation with chip removal and scrap handling managed separately. All tube changeover adjustments are handled from a single location. The bundle loader can be filled without interrupting production and is available in different lengths to a maximum of 40 ft (12.5 m). Its pendant-mounted operator console saves valuable floor space and can be pivoted for maximum operator efficiency.

The machine operates in several stages: the first position cuts the tube or bar to length, the second stage is for operations such as chamfering and facing and the third stage for boring, tapping or measuring. The BC80 comes with large access doors on both sides of the machine allowing for quick and easy access for changing saw blades and tooling or for routine maintenance. The control is designed with easy-to-use menu guides for programming part dimensions, material type, tooling and processing steps all to optimize cutting conditions for maximum productivity.

The scope of wire is expanding globally and the BLM wire line, which includes both single-head and double-head solutions to meet all production needs, introduces the E-Flex, a highly versatile CNC bending machine for wire fabrication that is equipped with two clockwise and counter clockwise bending turrets that are ideal for three dimensional bending during one part operation, within the same machining cycle. This enables several bending technologies (flexure, blows, variable radius) to be used simultaneously.

Supplying the wire from a coil ensures automatic operation. Coil-fed wire is straightened in both a vertical and horizontal orientation to process various sizes and types of wire with excellent repeatability in most all bending operations. The workpiece is straightened in a single forward movement, at constant speed, without intermediate stops, to ensure precise straightening and bending repeatability.

This completely electric numerically controlled single-head wire-bending machine is designed to process diameters up to 8 mm. It is best suited to bend wire with very complex shapes and its flexibility allows for short runs as well as high-volume production. Further, the machine automatically corrects the program by searching for prior bends that could interfere with the bending sequence. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments in order to obtain the required parameters. In addition, chamfers can be added for burr-free cuts. The unit incorporates the VGP3D visual graphic program for constant monitoring of the machine to assist in performance and operator ease of use.

The company also announces the introduction of the compact LC5 tube and sheet laser cutting system, equipped with a fiber laser up to 4.5 kW that is the only high production machine with automatic loading and unloading that can process both tube and flat sheet in a single machine. Switching from tube to sheet is fast, adding the flexibility fabricators need to expand their laser processing capability. The LC5 can handle bar up to 21 ft long and tube to 4.75 in diameter. The processing of sheet metal is fully automatic and allows for sheet up to 5 ft x 10 ft. The fiber laser is ideal for cutting both mild steel and highly reflective materials such as stainless steel and aluminum. The unit is also equipped with an automatic pallet changer and independent controls for both tube and sheet, with four scrap collection trays for easy scrap management.