Pipe Cold Drawing
Pipe cold drawing is the process of using a draw bench to pull a rod or tube to reduce its diameter. This process is used to create seamless cold-drawn pipes of both ferrous and non-ferrous metals such as steel and aluminum. Different types of pipes require different tools such as round dies and a draw bench. The use of a draw bench also allows for a smooth transition of different cross-sections at different levels in the pipe, which is used to improve the structural strength of the pipe.
In order to begin the process of pipe cold drawing, the desired material must be shaped into a length of round stock. The roundstock is then loaded onto the draw bench and the pulling process begins. The material is pulled through a series of dies and is then reduced in diameter as it passes each die. The force used during this process must be well-controlled in order to ensure that the walls of the pipe remain uniform throughout.
Once the desired diameter is reached, the draw bench is stopped and the pipe is “snaked” or printed to help ensure that the walls of the pipe are uniform throughout. This process is then repeated until the desired length of pipe is produced.
Cold-drawn pipes offer a number of advantages over traditional pipes. Firstly, cold-drawn pipes offer a significantly higher level of strength and durability compared to traditional pipes. The process of drawing the pipe ensures that its walls are uniformly even throughout, allowing for greater load-bearing capacity. The cold-drawn process also eliminates any weld seams which may be present in traditional pipes and therefore eliminates the potential for weld breaks.
Additionally, due to the nature of the cold-drawing process, pipe surfaces are able to be produced with a multitude of greater finish options. Cold-drawn pipes are smoother and have a more consistent polished surface finish than traditional pipes. This not only enhances the visual aesthetic of the pipe but also increases its overall load bearing capacity.
The process of cold drawing is also inherently energy-efficient. It does not require the use of high temperatures, large amounts of energy or complicated machinery to produce finished pipe components. This makes it a much more cost-effective and ecologically responsible process.
Although the cold-drawing process has many benefits, it does require a significant investment in machinery. This investment is usually only feasible for businesses and organizations who plan to produce large amounts of piping material. However, the significant advantages that cold-drawn pipes offer means that this process is the preferred method for most high-end piping requirements.
