Key features and functions of the molding machine in the LSAW pipe making production line include:
1. Plate Alignment and Clamping: The molding machine aligns the steel plate and securely clamps it in place. Proper plate alignment and clamping are essential to achieve accurate and consistent bending during the JCOE forming process.
2. JCOE Forming Process: The molding machine is designed to perform the JCOE forming process, which consists of several steps:
a. J-Forming: The steel plate is bent into a “J” shape, forming the first part of the JCOE configuration.
b. C-Forming: After J-forming, the plate is further bent into a “C” shape, taking the JCOE configuration one step closer to the desired circular shape of the pipe.
c. O-Forming: In the O-forming step, the C-shaped plate is expanded and bent into a circular shape, achieving the required outside diameter (OD) of the pipe.
d. E-Forming: The final step is E-forming, which ensures the ends of the plate are aligned and prepared for welding.
3. Precision Bending: The molding machine employs precision bending techniques to ensure accurate and uniform shaping of the steel plates. This precision is crucial for maintaining consistent dimensions and preventing defects during subsequent production stages.
4. Control System: The molding machine features a control system that allows operators to set and adjust the bending parameters, such as bending speed, pressure, and angles, to achieve precise and uniform results.
5. Material Handling: The machine incorporates a robust material handling system to efficiently feed the steel plates into the molding process and move them along the production line smoothly.
6. Safety Features: Safety measures, such as sensors and interlocks, are often integrated into the molding machine to ensure operator safety during operation.
How the JCOE Forming Process Works in the LSAW Pipe Making Production Line:
1. Plate Preparation: Steel plates, usually in the form of coils, are uncoiled and prepared for the JCOE forming process. The plates are cleaned and inspected for any defects or imperfections.
2. Plate Feeding: The steel plate is fed into the molding machine, where it undergoes the JCOE forming process.
3. J-Forming: The plate is bent into a “J” shape by the molding machine, forming the first part of the JCOE configuration.
4. C-Forming: The machine further bends the plate into a “C” shape, progressing towards the desired circular shape of the pipe.
5. O-Forming: The C-shaped plate is expanded and bent into a circular shape, achieving the required outside diameter (OD) of the pipe.
6. E-Forming: The machine ensures that the ends of the plate are aligned and prepared for welding, completing the JCOE forming process.
7. Output: The JCOE-formed plate is then passed on to the subsequent welding and finishing stages to create the final LSAW pipe.
In summary, the molding machine in the LSAW pipe making production line is a critical component in shaping the steel plates into a JCOE configuration. The machine’s precision bending techniques ensure accurate and uniform forming of the plates, laying the foundation for the production of large-diameter, thick-walled pipes used in various industries.
