Equipment for sealing pipe ends before ultrasonic testing

Automated plugging and unplugging – reliable and repeatable tube end sealing

To ensure accuracy and reliability in non-destructive pipe testing (NDT), in particular ultrasonic tests, it is essential to ensure hermetic sealing of pipe ends. This is exactly what our specialised plugging/unplugging equipment - a stand-alone unit that can be integrated into your production or inspection line.

Smart, standalone machine for sealing and unsealing

The stopper/unstopper station is self-contained on a steel frame and is used to inserting or removing plugs from the ends of pipes of different diameters. In each cycle, the pipe is gripped in a vicewhose polyurethane jaws prevent damage to the surface. Clamping pressure can be finely adjusted by regulating the air into the pneumatic cylinder.

tube end sealing pipe end sealing station sealing machine for ultrasonic testing tube plugging system automatic pipe sealing leak-tight sealing for NDT sealing system for pipe inspection

tube end sealing pipe end sealing station sealing machine for ultrasonic testing tube plugging system automatic pipe sealing leak-tight sealing for NDT sealing system for pipe inspection

Plug storage and control system

The plugs are stored in 60-piece tray, which has milled guide grooves and is equipped with sensors to check the type of plug inserted. This ensures precision and monitoring of production according to defined dimensions.

Automatic plugging sequence

The tube is clamped in position
A portal arm moves above the plug and grips it
The gripper lifts and aligns with the pipe axis
The plug is pushed precisely into the tube
The gripper releases and returns to standby
The clamp opens and a new tube is loaded

Automatic unplugging sequence

The tube is clamped in the vise
The gripper enters the pipe and pulls the plug out
The system moves over the empty magazine slot
The plug is placed back into the magazine
The arm returns to standby
The tube is released and replaced

Key benefits of the system:
Automatic sealing of pipe ends before ultrasonic test
High repeatability thanks to gantry system with servo drives
Gentle clamping without surface damage - polyurethane jaws
Intelligent tray with detection of the correct stopper type
Easy integration into NDT lines or preparation sections
Independent control and safety covering

Practical application of pipe end sealing equipment: ultrasonic and pressure testing of pipes, inspection lines in steel and tube mills, automatic finishing processes, lines for leak checking or defectoscopy.