What is Plate & Pipe BEVELLER?
A Plate Beveller and a Pipe Beveller are specialized machines used in metal fabrication to create beveled edges on metal plates and pipes, respectively. Beveling is the process of cutting an angled slope on the edge of a material. This is crucial in preparing metal pieces for welding, as it allows for proper weld penetration and creates a stronger joint.
Plate Beveller
Definition:
A Plate Beveller is a machine designed to create a beveled edge on flat metal plates. The bevel is typically cut at specific angles (commonly 30°, 37.5°, or 45°) depending on the welding requirements.
Technical Operation:
- Cutting Mechanism: Plate bevellers use rotary cutting tools or milling heads equipped with cutting inserts made of carbide or high-speed steel. These tools remove material from the plate edge to form the bevel.
- Adjustable Parameters:
- Bevel Angle: The angle of the bevel can be adjusted to meet specific welding standards.
- Bevel Width/Depth: The depth of the bevel can be set according to the thickness of the plate and the desired weld penetration.
- Types of Plate Bevellers:
- Portable Handheld Bevellers: Used for on-site jobs or smaller plates.
- Stationary Bevelling Machines: Used in workshops for larger plates and higher production rates.
Technical Features:
- Material Compatibility: Can bevel various metals, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
- Feed Mechanism: Some machines have automatic feed systems that move the plate or the cutting head to ensure consistent beveling.
- Edge Finishing: Produces smooth and uniform edges, reducing the need for additional grinding.
Pipe Beveller
Definition:
A Pipe Beveller is a machine designed to create beveled edges on the ends of pipes. This is essential for preparing pipes for welding, especially in applications requiring high-quality, strong welds.
Technical Operation:
- Mounting Mechanism: Pipe bevellers are equipped with clamping systems to secure the pipe from the inside diameter (ID) or outside diameter (OD).
- Cutting Mechanism:
- Rotating Cutting Head: The machine uses a cutting head that rotates around the pipe’s circumference, removing material to form the bevel.
- Tool Bits/Inserts: Equipped with replaceable cutting inserts that can handle different pipe materials.
- Adjustable Parameters:
- Bevel Angle: Adjustable to common welding angles.
- Land Width: The flat area at the end of the bevel can be set to specific widths for welding requirements.
Technical Features:
- Pipe Size Range: Capable of handling a wide range of pipe diameters and wall thicknesses.
- Bevel Types: Can produce various bevel profiles, including V-bevel, J-bevel, and compound bevels.
- Portability: Available in portable models for fieldwork and stationary models for shop environments.
Importance in Industry
- Welding Preparation: Proper beveling ensures optimal weld joint geometry, allowing for deeper weld penetration and stronger joints.
- Efficiency: Mechanical bevellers are faster and more precise than manual grinding, increasing productivity.
- Safety: Reduces operator fatigue and exposure to dust and noise associated with manual grinding.
Applications
- Oil and Gas Pipelines: Ensuring high-quality welds for pipelines transporting hazardous materials.
- Shipbuilding: Critical for assembling large metal plates and pipes in ship structures.
- Construction: Used in the fabrication of steel structures like bridges and buildings.
- Manufacturing: Essential in industries requiring precise metal fabrication, such as automotive and aerospace.
Conclusion
Plate and Pipe Bevellers are essential tools in metal fabrication, providing precise and efficient beveling solutions for welding preparation. Their technical capabilities allow for adjustable bevel angles and depths, accommodating various industrial requirements and standards. By producing consistent and accurate bevels, these machines play a critical role in enhancing the quality and integrity of welded structures.
