Stevens EngineersandConstructors upgrades pipe fab equipment

Stevens Engineers & Constructors has installed a Novarc Spool Welding Robot at its pipe fabrication facility in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, to help improve output. For example, while hand welding on an 18-in. extra-heavy pipe takes more than 12 hours, it can be decreased to 33 min. with the robot.

The robot gives the company the ability to fillet weld, to handle pipe more than 21 ft. long, and to make root-to-cap welds without stopping. With the system, the company can capture videos of the entire welding process for QC purposes, weld almost any type of pipe material, and weld a variety of joints with fewer space restrictions. Dual positioners allow one station to be loaded while the other is being welded.

Typical projects at the facility include large- or small-bore pipe spools, pipe racks, equipment skids, support steel, and ½-in.-dia. to 72-ft.-dia. pipe, light wall to extra extra heavy. Materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloy, and aluminum.