The forming process is effected in several, clearly defined steps that are geometrically similar to one another. During the forming process, the tube shell is almost completely enclosed by the tools. Some major improvements in modern cold pilger mills have been effected in recent years. The new 'L-type' crank drive is used in the medium size range of cold pilger mills (types 25 to 75), It combines excellent mass balancing properties with a quite simple and much cheaper foundation. Continuous operation increases the output of a cold pilger mill and is nowadays state-of-the-art. Additionally, the use of modern AC servo drives allows simple'r feed and turn gear boxes to be designed. At the same time, this modern drive concept provides enormous flexibility in defining feed and turn movements. Some modifications in the roll stand area result in several advantages. The lateral changing of the die assembly reduces the time for tool changing. By increasing the maximum diameter of ingoing shells, extra capacity has been added to the cold pilger mills. Apart from the design and manufacturing of cold pilger mills, SMS Meer can also provide the necessary process know-how and tooling design to operate such mills. This article could not touch on all areas of modern cold pilger mills, but should give incentive for new investments in the latest tube production technology, to put tubemakers one step ahead and make their operation more profitable.
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