The technology used to build end-forming machines has developed many folds over the last two decades. Solid construction, sound engineering practices, and excellent materials result in many end formers still running today. Many Pipe End Forming Equipment built a decade ago are still in use today as they are as versatile or efficient as their modern counterparts.
Evolution of Tube End Forming Machine
Technology is fast moving towards digitalizing every manual function. For many applications, the time of a stand-alone machine bound to perform just one task is numbered. The industry is moving forward and using new capabilities rather than designing conventional, manual end-forming machines. Technically, modern machines help and support the operator to a great extent. Loading and unloading programs can be automated with the help of forming steps that can be programmed. This will help in a way that processes run unattended for long periods. Induction heating has been added to form pipes or tubes made from hard-to-form materials. Different sensors can monitor the manufacturing process, and the diagnosis can alert an operator if something goes wrong.
Of Course, Digital Control Technology is the key to coordinating these activities. This technology has replaced analogue controls in machines, upgrading manufacturing processes that gained attention in the 1970s. It has also upgraded the capabilities of bending equipment and found its way into the tube and pipe niche. The advances in manufacturing capabilities have encouraged machine makers to develop Pipe End Forming Equipment that is more versatile, accurate, and fast. This, in return, allows end formers to rely less on hard-to-find skilled labour.
Basic End Forming
A ram-type end former is one of the most common end-forming equipment. This process securely grips a tube static in a set of clamp dies, whereas the ramming tool forms the end of the pipe. The ramming tool can cause the tubing to cold flow as it advances towards the static tube held by the clamp dies. The section of the tube left unsupported gets under the compressive loading on the tube, forming the bead. To start this, the machine’s controller finds the correct program, the operator then presses “start,” and the loading, forming and unloading process begins.
If you focus on the tube’s function rather than the forming method, you may also select a method that optimizes the cost part, even if it involves new parts. End Forming begins with understanding the tube end-forming process. Some basic end-forming methods include segmented tool sizing, rotary forming, roll forming, ram forming and spinning. Whether you choose ram or segmented tooling, your tooling choices help sort the operation into manual or automated. Understanding the methods and their capabilities is the key to opt the best solution for your application.
To Conclude
State-of-the-art Pipe End Forming Equipment has many capabilities to consider. Understanding their capabilities and limitations is crucial when choosing the best process for a particular part. You must consider creative ways to deploy the process to reduce process costs.
