A NOVEL INSTALLATION FOR MANUFACTURING SPIRAL-PROFILED PIPES: INTEGRATING THERMO-MECHANICAL INNOVATION FOR ENHANCED INDUSTRIAL CAPABILITIES

Abstract
We present a comprehensive analysis of a installation for the production of spiral-profiled pipes, representing a significant leap in manufacturing technology. Traditional methods for creating these high-performance components, crucial for industries like oil and gas and cryogenics, are often constrained by limitations in processing thick-walled materials, a narrow range of achievable helix angles, and a reliance on complex internal mandrels that increase cost and complexity. The proposed innovative installation overcomes these challenges through a synergistic integration of engineering disciplines. Its core innovations include a drive system for forced rotation and axial feed of the pipe, enabling precise control over the helix angle from 0° to 90°. Crucially, a localized induction heating system is strategically placed to thermally soften only the pipe's outer layer. This creates a steep thermal gradient, allowing the cool, high-strength inner wall to function as a "natural mandrel," thereby eliminating the need for a physical tool. Furthermore, forming rollers mounted on self-aligning supports ensure high precision and superior surface finish. The research findings demonstrate that this integrated approach not only expands manufacturing capabilities to include thick-walled and hard-to-deform materials but also simplifies the process, reduces tooling costs, and improves product quality. The study concludes that this technology embodies a transformative approach to industrial manufacturing, merging advanced mechanical design with controlled thermal processes. It offers substantial implications for management through streamlined production logistics and serves as a compelling case study for innovation in engineering education and applied research, paving the way for smarter and more efficient industrial practices.