Electric Resistance Welding (ERW) steel pipe production machines are specialized equipment used for manufacturing steel pipes through a welding process that uses electrical resistance to generate heat. This method is efficient and produces high-quality pipes suitable for various applications. Here’s an overview of the ERW steel pipe production process and the machines involved:
1. Uncoiler and Straightener
Uncoiler: This machine unwinds the steel coils, feeding the steel strip into the production line.
Straightener: Ensures the steel strip is flat and free of any bends or irregularities before further processing.
2. Shear and End Welder
Shear: Cuts the steel strip to the required width.
End Welder: Welds the ends of two strips together to create a continuous strip, ensuring uninterrupted production.
3. Accumulator
Stores a large amount of steel strip to allow continuous operation of the welding line while the uncoiler is reloaded.
4. Forming Section
Forming Rolls: Gradually shape the flat steel strip into a round pipe through a series of rolls.
Edge Milling Machine: Prepares the edges of the strip for welding by trimming and shaping them.
5. Welding Section
High-Frequency Welder: Uses electrical resistance and heat to weld the edges of the pipe together. This process creates a strong and consistent weld seam.
Squeeze Rollers: Apply pressure to ensure a solid and defect-free weld.
6. Sizing and Shaping
Sizing Mill: Further shapes and sizes the welded pipe to precise dimensions.
Turk's Head: Ensures the roundness and uniformity of the pipe.
7. Cooling Section
Uses water or air to cool the welded pipe before further processing.
8. Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
Ultrasonic Testing: Inspects the weld seam for internal defects.
Eddy Current Testing: Detects surface defects in the pipe.
9. Cutting Section
Flying Saw: Cuts the continuous pipe into required lengths without stopping the production line.
10. End Finishing
Deburring Machine: Removes any burrs or sharp edges from the ends of the pipes.
End Facing Machine: Ensures the pipe ends are smooth and even.
11. Hydrostatic Testing
Tests the pipes for leaks and structural integrity under high pressure.
12. Marking and Coating
Marking Machine: Marks the pipes with necessary information like size, grade, and manufacturer.
Coating Machine: Applies protective coatings to the pipes to prevent corrosion.
13. Packaging
Bundling Machine: Bundles the pipes together for easy handling and transport.
Packaging Line: Prepares the bundled pipes for shipment, ensuring they are securely packed.