Welding together pipe sections in the oil and gas, chemicals and process industries, is a reliable and low cost technique, but getting that perfect v-notch for the proper penetration and weld beam requires specialized equipment.
In the video above, we talk about a new tool bringing greater portability and simplicity of use for beveling operations, with Larry Feskanich, senior global marketing manager at RIDGID.
“Our intention behind the design of the B-500 Transportable Pipe Beveller was to make a compact unit that could bevel pipe, but be transportable,” explained Feskanich. “The B-500 can do anything from four-inch pipe up to flat plate with a 3/16ths wall up to a half-inch wall.”
The B-500 is powered by a 115-volt motor and sports a plug with a 15-amp breaker on the side. The portable beveller can be plugged into generators, and even standard wall sockets.
With roll-cage handles and weighing only 52 lbs., the tool can easily be manipulated and moved about the shop floor.
The B-500 is operated with a crank shaft. Normally, this presents complications with managing the correct turning speed – too slow and you have productivity issues, but too fast, you risk cut quality.
“We wanted to keep the operation of the system manual to give the operator a greater level of engagement, but we made it easy,” Feskanich explained. “On the back side, we have a series of lights, yellow, green and red. You want to keep your speed in the green for optimal speed.”
With simplicity of use, training on the B-500 is minimal. An instruction sheet is included with the tool, outlining proper usage, and five-minute demonstrations can get someone using the tool quickly, Feskanich explained.
The cutting tool itself is comprised of six-carbide inserts designed to cut and scoop material with a single pass.
For more information about the B-500 Transportable Pipe Beveller, watch the video above and visit the RIDGID website.