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



