Lock Joint Tube Powers Solar Energy Surge with Cutting-Edge Technology
Lock Joint Tube, a top-tier US steel tube manufacturer, is ramping up production at its Temple, Texas facility to meet the surging demand for solar tubes amid a global renewable energy boom. Partnering with Fives, they’ve implemented a new OTO tube mill equipped with state-of-the-art technology, doubling production capacity to cater to key customers in the solar energy sector.
According to the International Energy Agency, the global expansion of renewable energy, particularly solar energy, is projected to soar by over 440 gigawatts in 2023, marking the largest increase in history. Lock Joint Tube is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on this trend.
Michael Donnelly, Corporate Project Manager at Lock Joint Tube, emphasizes the significance of the investment, stating, “The OTO tube mill is fully automated and flexible, enabling us to meet the diverse needs of our customers in various applications, including solar, mechanical, and structural.”
The fully automated OTO tube mill supplied by Fives has doubled Lock Joint Tube’s production capacity, now reaching up to 4,000 tons per month. Operational since spring 2023, the mill churns out 3,000 tubes per day, boasting octagonal and square shapes to accommodate different requirements.
Mark Richner, Temple Plant Manager at Lock Joint Tube, underscores the transformative impact of automation on productivity, safety, and efficiency. “With the new OTO tube mill, we’ve doubled our capacity with just one operator on the line. This achievement is a testament to Fives’ cutting-edge technologies and our successful collaboration,” he notes.
Enhanced productivity is further ensured by Robopack, a fully automated packaging system developed by Fives. This system, featuring synchronized robots capable of handling special tube lengths up to 15 meters, delivers greater flexibility, quality, and safety standards, cementing Lock Joint Tube’s position as a leader in the industry.
For more information, visit www.fivesgroup.com.
Original source from Asia Pacific
