Machinists can now select one of three configuration options that have been added to a new line of heavy-duty portable flange facers from Climax Portable Machine Tools. Specifically, machinists who repair and maintain flanges and seals on site can specify portable flange facers for single-point machining only, for milling only, or for both milling and single-point machining.
This Climax grinding arm and head can provide nearly four times the metals removal capabilities and generate a finer surface finish compared to single point machining. An optional grinding head is also available that allows users to achieve fine surface finishes of 0.32 ra or better.
Because the new line of flange facers easily switch between facing and milling operations, machinists using the tools effectively get two machines in one, thus saving time and money. The new configuration options ultimately give machinists greater flexibility in how they approach on-site machining projects.
“Corrective maintenance of leaking or corroded flanges and other heavy equipment is one of the most significant operations and maintenance expenses, sometimes resulting in complete shutdown of the equipment, pipeline or plant,” said Geoff Gilmore, president and CEO of Climax Portable Machine Tools. “By having more options for specing their flange facers, Climax customers can tackle a variety of jobs while minimizing tool change out. Jobs get done faster.”
Incorporated into the single-point flange facer models is an exclusive, patented safety feature that lets operators adjust the feed rate while the machine is still running, without having to reach into the machine. The machines can be mounted either on the inside or outside diameter of the flange, and achieve infinitely variable feed rates from 0.002 to 0.035-inches/rev (0.0508 to 0.889 mm/rev). Their tool heads can be rotated a full 360 degrees, providing the ability to machine angular surfaces as needed.
Used in petrochemical plants, on oil and gas pipelines, on ships and at power generation facilities, Climax portable flange facers and milling machines provide powerful, rigid performance throughout a variety of machining projects. The modular design of these tools allow easier transport to the job site, and setup and disassembly can be done quickly. Using the tools, machinists achieve fast and accurate metals removal of demanding flange surfaces.