McElroy Manufacturing Fusion Machinery for Joining Thermoplastic Pipes

For over 60 years, McElroy has committed to providing innovative, quality products and services. McElroy designs and manufactures a comprehensive line of fusion equipment for joining thermoplastic pipe such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

The company offers a complete range of accessories that are designed to increase on-site productivity and efficiency. Its commitment to the industry includes an extensive training program through McElroy University to ensure that operators and inspectors develop best practices in the quality and reliability of fused pipe systems.

Fusion machines for the mining industry

HDPE and heat fused joints have played a major role in the mining industry.

The combination of thermoplastic pipe which offers a non-corrosive solution and heat fused pipe offers a cleaner solution without the risk of leaks. HDPE does not corrode and is resistant to the abrasive acid water often found in mines. The fusion machine heat welds pipe together so there are no joints in the line. This eliminates the chance for leaks to develop at the joints. Worldwide a variety of mines have chosen this combination for a variety of reasons.

Many times thermoplastic pipe gets called into service to carry liquids, gases and even rough solids, such as slurry. It is also used in infrastructures where ground movement, such as earthquakes, is possible, HDPE has some flexibility that allows crews to follow the contours in the earth.

In 1969, McElroy designed its first fusion machine. The company portfolio has since expanded to cover pipe sizes from 0.5in copper tube size (CTS) to 2,000mm, which forms the most comprehensive range of any fusion equipment manufacturer.

Fusion equipment is available in various models, from rolling and tracked models to carriage only models, to accommodate specific jobsite requirements.

Productivity optimisation accessories

McElroy believes in providing solutions to problems; therefore, in addition to the fusion machines, McElroy provides a variety of accessories and productivity tools that can significantly improve jobsite efficiency.

Examples include the pipe stands, Low Profile Rollers, as well as the PolyHorse® and the MegaMc® PolyHorse pipe handling systems, which consist of a series of adjustable racks to store and help move and align pipe on jobsites. These adjustable racks provide a less hazardous environment for handling pipe bundles, and reduces manpower costs while enhance jobsite productivity. All of these products help to improve the jobsite efficiency and productivity of the work force.

Quality assurance for fusion equipment

Quality testing and quality assurance can be a tremendous benefit to any jobsite.

The McElroy DataLogger® gives operators the ability to record the parameters of the pipe fusion process to determine if proper procedures have been followed. Data elements such as time, temperature and pressure are recorded on this handheld device and the latest DataLogger also allows operators to scan data, capture photos and GPS coordinates.

The DataLogger can be used in combination with The Vault™ which is a secure web-based server that stores fusion joint data.  This allows users to access their joints from any location with internet access and use a variety of analytical tools.

For quality testing there are a variety of options available.  McElroy’s Guided Side Bend Tester and In Field® Tensile Tester are two such tools that allow onsite qualitative testing to ensure joints meet the appropriate standard. If a laboratory type test is what is required then McElroy also offers the McSnapper® to destructively test impact resistance.

Operator training courses

McElroy University provides training through a number of methods.  Training is offered at its facilities in Tulsa, Oklahoma, through certified instructors throughout the US, online as well as onsite per client request. Classes include operator qualification, troubleshooting, and rebuild and inspector training.

Each class includes a combination of classroom and hands-on sessions, followed by after-class testing to ensure that students understand the proper concepts and procedures.

Students who successfully pass the tests receive a McElroy University operator qualification which is valid for two years.