



External Clamp Split Frame Pipe Beveling Machine
Split-frame clamshell pipe cutting and beveling machines for 89-1830mm OD pipelines. In-line mounting without end access, ideal for pipeline maintenance and offshore operations.

See the Split Frame Clamshell cutter in action for on-site pipe cutting and beveling
Overview
The Split Frame Series is our heavy-duty solution for in-line pipeline cutting and beveling. Unlike machines that slide over pipe ends, the split-frame clamshell design wraps around the pipe at any point along its length. This capability is essential for pipeline maintenance, tie-ins, and offshore operations where pipes are fixed in place and end access is impossible.
Key Advantages
- In-line mounting - Clamps anywhere on pipe, no end access needed
- 110mm wall capacity - Handles the thickest walls with hydraulic drive
- Four drive options - Match power source to environment and wall thickness
- Field portable - Breaks down for transport to remote locations
Why Split Frame?
Most pipe beveling machines need access to the pipe end—they slide on like a ring. But real-world pipelines are buried underground, suspended offshore, connected at both ends, or impossible to move. Split frame opens like a clamshell, wraps around the pipe, and gets the job done.
Size Groups
| Group | OD Range | Models | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 89-325mm | OCE-168 to OCE-325 | Process piping, distribution |
| Medium | 377-630mm | OCE-377 to OCE-630 | Transmission lines, headers |
| Large | 715-1066mm | OCH-715 to OCH-1066 | Main trunk lines, risers |
| Extra Large | 1230-1830mm | OCE/OCH-1230 to 1830 | Major pipelines, penstocks |
Drive Selection Guide
| Drive | Code | Wall Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric | OCE | ≤30mm | Standard pipe, accessible power |
| Pneumatic | OCP | ≤30mm | Hazardous areas, offshore |
| Hydraulic | OCH | ≤110mm | Heavy wall, main steam lines |
| CNC | OCS | ≤110mm | Automated, precision multi-pass |
Wall Thickness & Tooling
| Wall Thickness | Tooling Required | Drive |
|---|---|---|
| ≤30mm | Standard holder | OCE/OCP |
| 30-70mm | Heavy-duty holder | OCE/OCP/OCH |
| 70-110mm | Bridge-type holder | OCH only |
Typical Cycle Times
| Wall Thickness | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| 10mm | 15-25 minutes |
| 30mm | 30-45 minutes |
| 50mm | 45-60 minutes |
| 80mm | 75-100 minutes |
| 110mm | 90-120 minutes |
Times vary with diameter and material.
Customization Options
- Drive System — Electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, or CNC options based on application
- Tool Holder — Standard, heavy-duty, or bridge-type for different wall thicknesses
- Power Unit — Standard, explosion-proof, or diesel HPU for remote sites
- Voltage — 380V/50Hz standard, other configurations available
Model Comparison
Quick comparison of key specifications. For complete technical data, see full specifications.
| Model | OD Range (mm) | Max Wall (mm) | Drive Type | Size Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCE-168 | 89-168mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Small |
| OCE-219 | 114-219mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Small |
| OCE-273 | 168-273mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Small |
| OCE-325 | 219-325mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Small |
| OCE-377 | 273-377mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Medium |
| OCE-426 | 325-426mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Medium |
| OCE-508 | 377-508mm | ≤30mm | Electric/Pneumatic | Medium |
| OCE-630 | 426-630mm | ≤30 / ≤70mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic | Medium |
| OCH-715 | 508-715mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic | Large |
| OCH-820 | 610-820mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic | Large |
| OCH-920 | 715-920mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic | Large |
| OCH-1066 | 820-1066mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC | Large |
| OCH-1230 | 920-1230mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC | Extra Large |
| OCH-1420 | 1066-1420mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC | Extra Large |
| OCH-1630 | 1230-1630mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC | Extra Large |
| OCH-1830 | 1420-1830mm | ≤30 / ≤110mm | Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC | Extra Large |
View all parameters including dimensions, tolerances, and downloadable datasheets.
Key Features
Clamshell In-Line Mounting
Split frame wraps around the pipe at any point—no need to access pipe ends or move the pipeline.
110mm Wall Capacity
Hydraulic models cut through extreme wall thicknesses found in main steam lines and subsea risers.
Four Drive Options
Electric for standard work, pneumatic for hazardous areas, hydraulic for heavy walls, CNC for automation.
Modular Tool Holders
Standard, heavy-duty, bridge-type, spring tracking, boring, and outer wall options available.
Field Portable
Designed for remote pipeline work—all components break down for helicopter transport if needed.
Cold Cutting Process
No heat, no sparks, safe for live pipeline work and hazardous environments.
Industry Applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the advantage of split frame over chuck-type?
Split frame mounts anywhere along the pipe without end access—essential for in-service pipelines, offshore risers, or any situation where you can't slide a tool over the pipe end. Chuck-type is lighter and faster when end access exists.
When do I need hydraulic (OCH) vs electric (OCE)?
Use hydraulic for walls over 30mm, or for continuous heavy cutting. Electric handles up to 30mm wall and is simpler to deploy. For walls 30-70mm, consider heavy-duty electric tooling; over 70mm requires hydraulic.
Can Split Frame cut without beveling?
Yes, with square-cut tooling you can perform straight cuts only, bevel only, or simultaneous cut and bevel depending on tool configuration.
What's required for hydraulic operation?
OCH models need a hydraulic power unit (HPU) providing 40-60 L/min at 20-25 MPa. Standard, explosion-proof, and diesel-powered HPU options are available.
How long does a heavy-wall cut take?
Cutting time depends on wall thickness and diameter. Typical 50mm wall takes 45-60 minutes; 100mm wall may take 90-120 minutes. Multi-pass strategy optimizes quality and tool life.
Can it work on live pipelines?
Yes, with pneumatic drive and proper safety procedures. Cold cutting produces no sparks or heat, making it safe for pipelines containing flammable products when properly isolated.
What tooling options are available?
Standard holder (≤30mm wall), heavy-duty holder (≤70mm), bridge-type holder (≤110mm), spring tracking for uneven surfaces, boring bar for ID work, and outer wall facing tools.
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