Pipeline Clamshell Cold Cutter

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.

Pipe OD Range 89-1830mm
Wall Thickness Up to 110mm
Drive Options Electric / Pneumatic / Hydraulic / CNC
Models Available 23 Models
Available Drives:
OCE - Electric OCP - Pneumatic OCH - Hydraulic OCS - CNC
Cold Cutting CE Certified 1-Year Warranty OEM Available
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Split Frame Series Video

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

GroupOD RangeModelsTypical Application
Small89-325mmOCE-168 to OCE-325Process piping, distribution
Medium377-630mmOCE-377 to OCE-630Transmission lines, headers
Large715-1066mmOCH-715 to OCH-1066Main trunk lines, risers
Extra Large1230-1830mmOCE/OCH-1230 to 1830Major pipelines, penstocks

Drive Selection Guide

DriveCodeWall CapacityBest For
ElectricOCE≤30mmStandard pipe, accessible power
PneumaticOCP≤30mmHazardous areas, offshore
HydraulicOCH≤110mmHeavy wall, main steam lines
CNCOCS≤110mmAutomated, precision multi-pass

Wall Thickness & Tooling

Wall ThicknessTooling RequiredDrive
≤30mmStandard holderOCE/OCP
30-70mmHeavy-duty holderOCE/OCP/OCH
70-110mmBridge-type holderOCH only

Typical Cycle Times

Wall ThicknessApproximate Time
10mm15-25 minutes
30mm30-45 minutes
50mm45-60 minutes
80mm75-100 minutes
110mm90-120 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 89-168 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Small
OCE-219 114-219 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Small
OCE-273 168-273 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Small
OCE-325 219-325 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Small
OCE-377 273-377 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Medium
OCE-426 325-426 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Medium
OCE-508 377-508 mm ≤30 mm Electric/Pneumatic Medium
OCE-630 426-630 mm ≤30 / ≤70 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic Medium
OCH-715 508-715 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic Large
OCH-820 610-820 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic Large
OCH-920 715-920 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic Large
OCH-1066 820-1066 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC Large
OCH-1230 920-1230 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC Extra Large
OCH-1420 1066-1420 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC Extra Large
OCH-1630 1230-1630 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC Extra Large
OCH-1830 1420-1830 mm ≤30 / ≤110 mm Electric/Pneumatic/Hydraulic/CNC Extra Large

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.

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.

Need Help Choosing the Right Machine?

Our engineers can recommend the best solution for your specific pipe processing requirements.

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