In Tank, Pipe and Pressure Vessel manufacturing, welding the shells of rolled material is a necessary and vitally important step. However, at times these components can be massive, weighing many tons and requiring all sorts of rigging, cranes and devices to arrange them for proper fitting prior to being permanently joined together through the welding (SAW) process. For many years the process of aligning these rolled tank shells was left up to the welder through a series of wood blocks, wedges and sledge hammers. Through brute force these fabricators brought these massive shells together, aligned them and began welding them together. The time involved aligning these pieces was unbearable and difficult, especially as the pieces grew larger and larger. There had to be a better way and engineers developed the first powered set of Fit-Up Rolls.
Fit-Up Rolls are a set of rolls that allow a shell (rolled parts) to be placed on them and then “roll” the shell around for positioning during welding. They also allow for several rolled shells to be placed on them to be aligned together for diametrical welding. Some fit-up rolls do not allow for any adjustment to the shells riding on them and the operator is left to shift, raise or lower the shells using whatever manual means necessary. Other more advanced fit-up rolls, such as those offered from Bendmak use a series of powered rollers to shift, lift and lower the rolls and the shells riding on them, for better alignment and fit.
Bendmak’s Tank Fit-Up Rolls are used in a variety of applications from pipe and tank to pressure vessel applications. Industries that use Bendmak Fit-Up Rolls include:
Whether you are new to the tank building process or replacing older technology, BendmakUSA has the right Bendmak solution for you. Check out our Tank Fit-Up roll options or contact us for help with your specific application.