Why is maximum diameter not enough?
A mill covering a stated diameter and wall-thickness range does not necessarily run at maximum diameter, maximum thickness and maximum speed at the same time. Forming, welding, cooling and cutting must work together under the same operating conditions. Material properties and finished-product requirements also affect the usable range.
Separate the products you make regularly from occasional products near the limits, then confirm each combination with the equipment supplier. A production matrix is more useful than a comparison of isolated maximum values.
What should a useful selection brief contain?
You do not need to choose a model before contacting us. Start with a product list, with one row for each tube you intend to make. Mark unresolved requirements for confirmation instead of filling in assumed values.
- Material grade, supply condition and available mechanical-property data
- Actual size and wall-thickness combinations for round, square or rectangular tube
- Regular products, production plans and changeover frequency
- Finished length, dimensional and length tolerances, and cut-end requirements
- Intended use and the quality and inspection requirements to be agreed
How should output and speed be specified?
Target output and line speed describe different things. Production also includes coil handling, strip joining, roller changes, adjustments and inspection. Define the products and operating schedule first, then discuss continuous running speed and the time required for these activities.
The flying saw must match speed and cut length together. The accumulator must store enough strip to cover coil changes and strip joining, and cooling must suit the heat load. Increasing mill speed alone does not establish a higher output for the complete line.
Turn the selection into a configuration and acceptance plan
For a candidate model, confirm the roller range, HF welding equipment, entry equipment, the flying saw, run-out equipment and factory interfaces. The equipment list, operating conditions and supply scope should refer to the same agreed configuration.
This guide explains the selection process. Specific capability depends on the confirmed product combinations and technical agreement. Use the model table on the Tube Mill Lines page as a starting point and send us your production list; pricing is discussed for the final configuration.