Portable Cleaning Machine Prepares Pipes For Relining

Portable Cleaning Machine Prepares Pipes For Relining
TCM cleaning machine with air-water connection

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Originally developed for the U.S. Army to clean tank barrels, the portable TCM-3000 pipe cleaning machine from GI Industries removes debris prior to relining.

The cleaning machine, which is powered by a 3/4 hp motor and weighs only 45 pounds, can be carried from job to job, including rooftops and aboard airplanes.

The system includes a steel, flexible shaft cable (3/4-inch O.D.) encased in protective nylon for cleaning 100 feet of pipe. A three-way switch controls machine rotation: forward for drilling, neutral for air/water flushing and reverse for deburring.

“What’s unique about the machine is it runs on standard 110 current, so power is not an issue,” says Brian Good, general manager of GI Industries. “Technicians also like the variable-speed drive. They’re able to drill from 0 to 1,750 rpm.”

The machine’s slower speeds are best for drilling and removing debris while higher speeds are best for polishing and deburring surfaces in preparation for relining. Air and water fittings enable the machine to be connected to a compressor or waterline.

“When you turn the machine on and step on the foot pedal, the brush or drilling head begins spinning and up to 100 psi of air or water is released at the drill or brush head,” he says. “The flushing action removes blocked debris from the pipe, while also cooling the drill head, prolonging the life of the cutting tool.”

The field-repairable system has a welded steel cabinet and weight-saving aluminum cover. It can be used in harsh environments, including extreme heat and cold, and requires minimal maintenance: An occasional spray of lightweight oil down the throat of the driveshaft helps keep seals moist.

The cleaning machine, made with 90 percent American components, comes with a pneumatic foot switch and 24-foot GFI power cord. 800/724-1944; www.giind.com.



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