TPT January 2009

anuary

2009

www.read-tpt.com

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traightening

and

finishing are critical

functions of tube

making on two counts: as

important contributors to the

quality of the product; and by

virtue of their position in the

production cycle.

In a high-speed operation,

problems are unwelcome

at any time. In an industry

in which profit turns on

productivity, they are best

discovered at the feedstock

stage.

As it happens, there are

challenges enough at the

end of the line. Expectations

for

finishing

grow

continually, especially in the

pharmaceutical and chemical

processing industries that require a mirror finish on the interior of tubing.

It is no longer sufficient for tube finishing methods to deliver a smooth, blemish-free surface

with a high-gloss polish; they must also satisfy stringent government-mandated health, safety,

and environmental concerns. Operations such as buffing may now require the installation

of operator safety devices. Harder-to-grind metals call for customized polishing sequences

and belt lineups. Polishing the inside

diameter of very long tubes is still a

daunting assignment.

As their customers’ requirements

mount, so do the demands that tube

makers place on themselves: for

achieving perfect surfaces in fewer steps

and in less time. The development of

new machinery – for straightening,

grinding, sanding, and polishing –

keeps pace with both sets of clients.



Bronx/Taylor-Wilson manufactures a range of 6 and 10 roll straightening machines (see page 72)

traightening &

inishing

achinery



Ravni technology for a prime finish on steel, copper and stainless steel tube (page 80)