February 2013, Vol. 68 No. 2
Equipment Spotlight
Pipe And Joint Fusion Equipment: Equipment Spotlight
Pipe and joint fusion equipment from McElroy Mfg., Georg Fischer Connectra, Footage Tools and Ritmo America.
McElroy Mfg.
The TracStar 500 Series 3 is the latest evolution of the world’s first self-contained, self-propelled, all-terrain fusion machine. The fusion machine is capable of fusing thermoplastic pipes from 6-inch IPS to 20-inch in outer diameter. New standard features include an indexer-mounted heater and facer, economy engine throttle setting and hydraulic clamping. The fusion carriage can be removed and lowered into a ditch for fusions in tight spaces. An Automatic TracStar 500 Series 3 will be available as well, with both versions capable of recording fusion parameters with a McElroy’s DataLogger. 918.836.8611, mcelroy.com/fusion
Georg Fischer Connectra
The Connectra 414 Hand-Powered hydraulic system is powered by an easy-to-maintain hand pump and pressure gauge. Its sturdy rectangular frame design provides a rigid and safe fusion platform. Key features include a ball bearing facer design driven by a durable electric motor; and a three-clamp top unit quick-releases for in-the-ditch butt or side fusion work (with optional side fusion accessories). The system has 2,940 pounds of total interfacial force to handle any job. It can be manually operated front pipe lifter is a standard feature. A rear pipe lifter is available as optional equipment. A limited three-year warranty is available. 800.654.3872, connectrafusion.com
Footage Tools
The Footage Tools’ compact Butt Fusion System is designed to fuse PE and HDPE pipe up to 6 inches in diameter, making it ideal for many applications. Trimming or facing the pipe is simple using the gear drive power facing tool, which is positioned between the pipe clamps using the guide pins. Guide plugs on the facing tool fit inside the pipe wall and assist in holding the pipe firmly in place during the facing operation. The heating irons set at 500 degrees F are used to heat fuse the pipe. The irons are positioned using the same guide pins located on the pipe clamps. The Butt Fusion machine features a four clamp system that provided added strength when fusing PE pipe sizes ranging from 1 ¼” to 6″ in diameter. 888.737.3668, footagetools.com
Ritmo America
The RAM 824 ALL TERRAIN pipe and fusion machine is simple to use. The heating plate and facer disconnect system is ideal for the positioning / removal of the pipes. The clamps hydraulic system serves as a protection against collisions while positioning the machine inside the trench. And low fuel consumption and soundproofing gear protects the environment, while saving money. Key features include a working range of 8-inch IPS to 24-inch DIPS; four steering wheels drive; a diesel-engine and self-contained with on-board generator; a sliding third clamp for fittings welding; data logging with GPS. 863.679.8655, ritmoamerica.com
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