Pipeweld Orbiter mechanized welding system from ESAB helps lower cost per joint

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products has launched its Pipeweld Orbiter. ESAB

ESAB Welding & Cutting Products has launched its Pipeweld Orbiter mechanized welding system and a complete line of Pipeweld consumables. Designed for welding pipeline tie-ins and special sections such as road and river crossings, the system can lower cost per joint by 40%, according to the company.

After completing the root and hot pass with cellulosic electrodes, the system automates the fill and cap passes using flux-cored electrodes. Another procedure is to use downhill, low-hydrogen electrodes for the first fill pass, then the welding system for the remaining passes. The mechanized system completes joints faster because uphill flux-cored welding offers deposition rates up to 9 lbs. per hour.

The system comprises a lightweight bug and a fast-fit band that clamps on pipe with diameters greater than 8 in. The bug contains the controls, wire spool holder, wire feed mechanism, torch, bug drive mechanism, and cables and hoses, all connected as one unit. The same bug works on both sides of the pipe.