TPT November 2013

Technology News

Expanded applications of induction heating ADVANCES by Ajax Tocco

considered impractical. The portable induction heating power supply systems require little or no water cooling. Ajax Tocco 1.5kW to 35kW systems perform along side 100kW, 500kW and MW rated systems. Coated pipe manufacturers can install fusion bonded epoxy patch repairs over abrasions and pinholes with as little as 1.5kW. Areas as small as one square inch can be heated to 400°F in less than one minute with the 100 per cent air- cooled Autotron. Friction stir welding (FSW): Compact, low power induction heating improves steel tooling life and feed rates. Induction is practical for economically joining steel in critical process applications. The 10kW TOCCOtron AC traverses just ahead of FSW spinner. Steel along the joint line is preheated to approximately 2,000°F. The FSWspinner ‘twists’ the malleable steel together, creating a weld of 100 per cent base metal. Submerged arc welding (SAW): Like FSW, induction heating is applied in line with the welding equipment. Power as low as 5kW preheats pipe and vessels. Weld rates of 24" per minute on ½" steel plate can be achieved. Post-weld treatment: Annealing of ERW, induction welds and continuous coil steel tubing bias welds typically requires over 500kW. The 35kW TOCCOtron AC air-cooled induction system utilises little floor space and is reliable in harsh metal finishing environments. Induction heating increases the cure rate of fibreglass reinforced polyester. A steel mandrel acts as a succeptor to an induction heating coil on the OD of the composite pipe. The electromagnetic field is invisible to the composite, while the mandrel heats to approximately 300°F. A strong, lightweight pipe with a smooth bore is created. Ajax Tocco Magnethermic Corp – USA Fax: +1 330 372 8608

Higher temperature and current capable semiconductors, fast response digital signal processors (DSP), power switching and controls technology allow process engineers to develop welding processes that were previously

Magnethermic have expanded the capabilities of induction heating equipment, and the physical size and cooling requirements of the equipment have been reduced.

Email: info@ajaxtocco.com Website: www.ajaxtocco.com

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N ovember 2013