The process of fusing pipe by machine, which involves joining two pieces of thermoplastic pipe with heat and pressure, was pioneered by McElroy Manufacturing in 1969. The company created the world’s first centreline-guided, semi-automatic, hydraulic machine for fusing 2” to 6” pipe. Today, McElroy’s lineup of fusion machines includes more than 20 manual, rolling hydraulic, tracked hydraulic and specialty models.
Wherever there’s water, oil, natural gas or other liquids to move, you’ll find fused pipe. It’s seamless, leak-free and resistant to corrosion, vibration and pressure surges — all of which means it lasts longer (up to 100 years) and requires less maintenance than traditional piping systems, bringing down costs.
The process of fusing pipe by machine, which involves joining two pieces of thermoplastic pipe with heat and pressure, was pioneered by McElroy Manufacturing in 1969. The company created the world’s first centreline-guided, semi-automatic, hydraulic machine for fusing 2” to 6” pipe. Today, McElroy’s lineup of fusion machines includes more than 20 manual, rolling hydraulic, tracked hydraulic and specialty models.
For operations fusing long pipelines and working on tough terrain, the pipe fusion machine of choice is McElroy’s TracStar®. Self-propelled via rugged, dual rubber tracks, it can traverse mud, snow, loose soil and grades of up to 30 percent with ease. The chassis-mounted carriage allows for easy pipe loading and movement along the pipe, and it’s removable for access to tight spaces. And because every TracStar can drive itself up and down the ramps of a trailer, there’s no need to bring a crane on site.
In 2021, McElroy launched the next generation of TracStar machines. New iSeries models feature the FusionGuide Control System, integrated software that guides the operator through every step of the process. After the operator prepares the pipe and enters all joint details, the system manages machine pressures, heater actions, shift sequences and more to ensure every fusion meets standards.
“Our customers continue to face labour challenges in terms of finding qualified operators,” says Geoff Koch, McElroy’s vice president for product development. “Our goal is to make it easy for anyone to run these machines and deliver a repetitive, reliable fusion joint every time.”
One way McElroy aims to achieve that goal is by providing options for different operator experience levels and jobsite requirements. iSeries models are the only pipe fusion machines available with three levels of control in a single machine: manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic modes.
Another update on iSeries machines is a move to the latest emissions-compliant engines. All three models — 630i, 900i and 1200i — are powered by Perkins® 904J-E36TA U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/ EU Stage V engines. “Stage V is a requirement for Europe, but we also chose Perkins because the Stage IIIA previous model is so similar,” Geoff says. “With equipment running worldwide, we need a dual-certified platform to sell into certain countries. The commonality between the models reduces the amount of design differences on our end.”
McElroy also is taking advantage of the engine’s Power Take-Off (PTO) to drive some hydraulics on iSeries machines. “One thing that makes the TracStar unique is that our primary engine load powers an onboard electric generator, which adds convenience since the customer doesn’t have to transport a generator on site,” Geoff says. “The PTO on the Perkins engine provides the opportunity for a very streamlined package.”
In a series of product showcases held before the first iSeries models were shipped, another feature of the Perkins engine stood out — a lack of noise. “People commented on how quiet it was, even running at full throttle,” Geoff says. “That’s becoming more important for anyone working in urban areas.”
iSeries machines are the first McElroy products with Perkins engines, but Geoff has great confidence in the brand’s reputation for service and support. “If there’s an engine issue, we know our customers can access the Perkins service network locally wherever they are. And as equipment ages, they’ll have access to the parts they need to keep it running,” he says. “The Perkins name carries that commitment of support.”
Geoff Koch, McElroy’s vice president for product development
Learn more about this engine and others in this range
Being a leading choice on jobsites where fusing long pipelines is required, the TracStar® fusion machines offer freedom of movement and an ease of manoeuvrability. These vehicles can navigate through rough terrain and gradients up to 30 percent due to their self-propelled rubber crawler tracks. They are also all self-contained with the necessary electrical equipment on board.
Generac ultimately chose the Perkins® 1204F-E44TTA for the new flameless heater which focuses almost exclusively on oil and gas and mining applications.
Learn MoreEgholm A/S, a family-owned and run company, develops, produces and markets utility machines, built by craftsmen in Denmark. Their machines are located all over the world.
Learn MoreWith more than 70 years’ experience in development and production, Mecalac continues to innovate, boasting a comprehensive portfolio of compact equipment specifically developed to revolutionise operations for construction professionals – saving time, money and labour.
Learn MoreFujian Ronggong Environmental Protection Machinery Co., Ltd. was founded in China’s Fujian province in 2016 to develop, manufacture and market advanced equipment to support a range of environmental cleanup applications.
Learn MoreThe XAS 950 was designed with usability at the forefront. Its small size allows for enhanced mobility, which comes in especially handy in tight spots. And no added costs of logistics companies since the machine can simply be pulled behind a truck.
Learn MoreCoupled with rotary screw technology and Sullair’s unique electronic spiral valve innovations, the Mid-Range Series enables operators to easily adjust between 100 to 200 psi and between 800 to 1100 cfm for a wide range of applications without needing to switch between different air compressors.
Learn MoreThe choice to use Perkins engines in the Vantage 441X was an easy one for Lincoln. Many of their products are powered by Perkins engines and have been for many years.
Learn MoreFor more than 80 years, Nebraska based Allmand has worked alongside its customers, providing them with reliable equipment to successfully get the job done. Known for its "can-do" attitude and commitment to its customers, Allmand pledges quality, high performance equipment built with the application expertise of a job site.
Learn MoreSelecting Perkins engines as its diesel power supplier of choice has helped Pioneer Pump Ltd carve out a distinctive, valuable USP, raising standards and expectations in a global market saturated with manufacturers.
Learn MoreLincoln Electric’s dual 400X welder/generator delivers quality work and power with its Perkins engine. Welder, generator, welder/generator, diesel engine, Perkins, Lincoln Electric
Learn MoreHigh-pressure, high-volume Pioneer Pump 8” to 14” diesel-driven pumps are driven by Perkins power to assist with a wide range of applications.
Learn MoreThe XE750D excavator is fitted with a Perkins® 2506D-E15TA engine. Meeting China NRIII and EU Stage IIIA/U.S. EPA Tier 3 equivalent emission standards, this 15 litre engine delivers a powerful 403 kW at 2100 rpm.
Learn MoreGenerac Mobile helps end users and renters connect confidently to premium power with two new mobile diesel generators.
Learn MoreAs one of the world’s premier manufacturers of hydraulic piling hammers and ground improvement equipment, the company counts contractors and rental companies from every continent amongst its customers.
Learn MoreThe Ammann ARX 140 Heavy Articulated Tandem Roller fits well on a wide range of jobsites but is most productive if used in high volume asphalt applications such as highways, industrial areas, or airfields. Its high static ‘dead’ weight is ideally suited as a finishing/ironing static roller or as a compaction tool for sensitive materials.
Learn MoreAlready a market leader in nut production machinery, Turkey’s Oyman, is broadening its product line-up with the launch of high-quality biomass shredders.
Learn MorePeople living near areas of flood risk are among those benefiting from the dependable pumping machinery developed by German engineering experts Börger – and driven by Perkins.
Learn MorePortable air compressors are everywhere on construction sites because they do the crucial task of breaking up concrete. And the Sullair 185 Series Air Compressor has been a beast in this arena for years.
Learn MoreDiscover more about some of the additional services Perkins can offer you.