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The fusion process has been around awhile in the gas and oil industry. HMG decided to take this process one step further in complexity than other industries – and did we ever. I believe over the long run, the efforts spent over the last several month’s will prove beneficial and a wise investment of company resources. The fusion process allows HMG to get out of a dying, heavily regulated, and slower FG process.
Our take on the process is unique in that we began pushing the envelope by utilizing a custom jaw configuration not just relegated to end-caps or round PE pipe, and different force loading than what would normally be expected in the realm of fusion technology.
Basically the process allows for two semi-molten masses of material to be joined under pressure. The process somewhat mixes the two molten halves together to form one homogeneous fused joint. Once cooled, the testing can begin.
Strength and endurance of the fused joint are key characteristics. We currently assess the quality of the profile, visual joint appearance (external and internal if available) and perform the following load tests: We stress the tank in its normal position to one inch deflection for 10 minutes while looking for leaks, etc. We then submerge the tank, pin the ends, pressurize, and deflect the tanks in the opposite direction for 10 minutes while looking for leaks. The deflection in this second test can reach two inches. Two tests are needed because they subject the fused joint to real world pressure, defection and loading. Performing both tests allows the top and bottom of each fused joints to be subjected to tension and compression type loading.
As we gain inventory we will be able to supply the full range of tank configurations originally promised. You will be able to have these tanks shortly – some have already been installed. The fire put us behind, but now we are starting to gain momentum. Thanks for your patience while we work the testing and logistical details of this process out. Finally, we are fusing tanks!
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