MTI Model 100T Direct Drive Friction Welder

Heavy-duty friction welding machine specifically engineered for the welding of API pipes with tool joints and plain-end or upset/flush pipes. This machine uses a direct drive friction welding process with a rotating spindle side, fixed tailstock side, and high-capacity hydraulic axial thrust to produce strong and reliable welded joints for demanding oil and gas applications.

The unit is suitable for drill pipes and similar tubular products, supporting pipe diameters from 60 mm up to 193 mm, with typical wall thickness from 5 mm to 8.8 mm, and pipe lengths up to 12 meters depending on diameter and support configuration. It is designed to handle API tube ranges from 2 3/8” to 4 1/2” and standard tool joints including NC26, NC31, NC38, NC40, NC46, and NC50.

This friction welder is rated for a maximum standard weld area of approximately 5,100 mm², with the installed 100 Ton upgrade option allowing welding areas up to approximately 6,500 mm². Maximum axial thrust is about 890 kN, equivalent to 200,000 lbf or 100 tons, making it suitable for high-force forge phase applications. The spindle reaches a maximum mechanical speed of approximately 1,500 rpm, with typical operating welding speeds up to 1,000 rpm depending on joint diameter and section.

The machine is equipped with a collet chuck spindle system, adjustable tailstock backup, self-centering fixtures, V-jaws for long upset API pipes, and multiple steady rests to support long pipe lengths. It also includes a flash removal and facing unit for external burr removal and front machining operations near the weld joint.

Main technical features include Allen-Bradley PLC control, industrial PC supervision, a 201 kW spindle motor, 75 kW main pump motor, automatic lubrication system, pneumatic services, and integrated hydraulic oil cooling via water/oil heat exchanger. The machine is configured according to C.E. specifications and includes safety doors, emergency stops, and certified European electrical and safety components.

Main technical data:

Model: MTI Model 100T Direct Drive Friction Welder

Manufacturer: MTI

Welding type: Direct drive friction welding

Application: API pipes with tool joints, plain-end and upset/flush pipes

Pipe diameter range: 60 - 193 mm

Typical wall thickness: 5 - 8.8 mm

Pipe length range: 500 mm - 12,000 mm

Supported API range: 2 3/8” - 4 1/2”

Supported tool joints: NC26, NC31, NC38, NC40, NC46, NC50

Maximum standard weld area: approx. 5,100 mm²

Maximum upgraded weld area: approx. 6,500 mm²

Maximum thrust force: approx. 890 kN

Maximum spindle speed: approx. 1,500 rpm

Typical welding speed: up to approx. 1,000 rpm

Headstock slide stroke: 1,000 mm

Main spindle motor: 201 kW

Main pump motor: 75 kW

Voltage: 400 VAC, 3 phase, 50 Hz

Control system: Allen-Bradley PLC

Compliance: C.E. configuration

Ideal for:

Oil and gas pipe production

API drill pipe welding

Tool joint welding applications

Heavy-duty tubular component manufacturing

non-binding information to be verified at purchase