Abstract: A pipe forming apparatus provided with microcomputer control of the welding temperature and, when for a mobile pipe forming apparatus, the speed of vehicle and speed of the milling operation. Where the pipe forming apparatus is mobile, it is further provided with a propulsion and steering system, the computer measuring the speed of the apparatus and the pipe manufacturing speed and passing that information to the microcomputer. The microcomputer then controls the relative mill speed and vehicle speed to ensure that during operation the pipe milling apparatus moves ahead at an equal speed but opposite direction to the metal strip being formed into pipe.

Abstract: An improved mobile pipe forming apparatus in which pipe forming apparatus is supported on a carriage. The carriage is mounted on a forward and a rearward pair of tracks, the two tracks of each pair being attached to each other by a rigid carbody, the carbody of one of these pairs of tracks being pivotally secured to the carriage by means of a ball and socket centered with respect to that carbody, the other carbody being secured to the carriage by means of a turntable which rotates above an axis normal to the surface of the carriage on a centered axis pin so that, during movement, the carriage stays on the same plane as that of the turntable. It is preferred that independent motors are provided for each track to power these motors. The motors are computer controlled. Other mechanical improvements over prior art mobile pipe forming apparatus are also described.

Abstract: A normalizer for linear welds in continuous pipes, to travel along the side a pipeline during operation. The normalizer comprises an induction heater supported on a mounting assembly. A power source is provided for the induction heater and an electrical control means controls the power from the power source to the induction heater. A mechanical means continuously controls the elevation and lateral placement of the mounting assembly and induction heater with respect to those of the pipe. A mechanical control means enables continuous control of the lateral placement of the mounting assembly and induction heater with respect to the pipe weld to be normalized and ensures proper placement of the induction heater over that weld. A spacer means permits adjustable spacing of the induction heater a predetermined distance from the pipe weld to be normalized, to provide a predetermined air gap between the induction heater and that weld.