The machine dramatically speeds up the polyethylene pipe welding process by combining fusion mobility and controlled fusion weld cooling techniques. Combining these two elements in a state-of-the-art machine significantly increases the production capacity and the number of welds produced per hour.
The advantages of the increased production rate are obvious, but there are many other advantages of the new system. The environmental footprint is lessened because of the smaller size of the construction easement. Reduced travel on the right of way by support vehicles lessens the impact on the immediate environment and also leads to less carbon emissions. Manual handling requirements are also minimised, which means reduced risk exposure to personnel and reduced risk of pipe damage.
The machine is self propelled with a Caterpillar 3054C diesel engine and travels up to 10 km/h to achieve maximum fuel efficiency. Depending on ground conditions it can be operated on rubber or steel tracks. The on-board programmable logic controller controls the fusion settings and stores all production data for future reference.
Poly pipe up to 500 mm diameter can be handled and welded using the 6,000w generator on the spacious working platform and the overall the cycle time is reduced by up to four times compared to conventional poly welding techniques.
The fast fusion machine is currently being commissioned and operated in southwest Queensland. For further information on the machine and how it can be used to speed up installation times on projects, please contact Ian Kemball at Diversified on 07 3292 0800.
Diversified is the largest Queensland based pipe installation company and undertake the construction and installation of all types of pipelines – oil, gas, water and slurry lines. With their desire to remain at the forefront of new technology, Diversified can make a difference to project delivery times and costs.