.jpg)
There are two different methods to cut a pipe and prepare the joint for welding. The first method involves thermal cutting followed by hand grinding to achieve the desired bevel angle. The second method uses a cold cutting machine to cut and bevel the pipe. In this article, we will learn more about the cold cutting machine tools that are manufactured by E.H. Wachs, a division of ITW.
Two Categories of Cold Cutting Machine Tools
The E.H. Wachs machine tools are differentiated based on the mounting method employed. OD mounted machines are mounted on the outer diameter of the pipe or vessel. In general, OD mounted machines are able to perform cutting and beveling simultaneously. On the other hand, ID mounted machines are installed in the internal diameter of precut pipes and are typically used for beveling.
OD Mounted Machine Tools
The most popular OD mounted machine tool from E.H. Wachs is the Split Frame (or clamshell), which can be used by field machinists to perform cutting, beveling, counterboring, flange facing etc. Split Frames, which come in three different sizes, are literally split in half and mounted on the outside diameter of the pipe before machining takes place. The smallest model is the SDSF (Small Diameter Split Frame) that can be mounted on 0.5-inch to 6-inch diameter pipes. The largest model is the LDSF (Large Diameter Split Frame), which can be used on tanks and vessels ranging from 60-inch to 120-inch in diameter. The newest model is the DynaPrep MDSF (Modular Design Split Frame), which is designed to fit pipes between the range of 2-inch to 72-inch in diameter. These Split Frames are highly portable field machining systems which can be powered by electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motors.
ID Mounted Machine Tools
ID mounted machine tools are installed in the internal diameter of precut pipes using a mandrel and chuck assembly that expands within the pipe’s inner diameter. Because this assembly will self-center when tightened, it allows for high precision pipe end preparations. The most popular ID mounted machine tools from E.H. Wachs are the SpeedPrep SDB (Small Diameter Beveler) and the SpeedPrep EP 424. The SpeedPrep SDB allows for precise joint preparation of pipes and tubes with diameters ranging from 0.875-inch to 12-inch. On the other hand, the SpeedPrep EP 424 is designed for heavy wall applications and is powerful enough to be used on pipe diameters ranging from 4-inch to 24-inch and up to 6.5-inch wall thickness. In addition, the Deluxe and Premium versions of the SpeedPrep EP 424 are equipped with the patented AutoFeed system which allows the machinist to change the bevel angle on the fly in order to create compound bevels and J preps without any workplace stoppages.
If you’ll like to enquire more about the E.H. Wachs cold cutting machines tools, feel free to reach out to us at SGOffice@MillerWelds.com