How Does One Tube Closing Machine Run Several Sizes? Multi-Station Setups for Volume and Mixed Lots
A common question when buying a closing machine is: I have several tube sizes, so how many machines do I need? TONG DA hydraulic closing machines are built as multi-station sets and every station is independent, so one machine can run a single size on all stations or a different size on each. This article explains the setups.
 TD-31040 three-station closing machine |  Closed ends in different tube sizes |  TD-351 (TD-31050) two-station closing machine |
Every station is independent
Each station on a multi-station closing machine has its own chuck and forming unit and closes the tube by itself. The stations do not affect each other, so each one can carry the jaw set and guide tube for a different tube size and have its own end-shape setting.
Two ways to set up
| Setup | How | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Same size | All three stations run one tube size | One product in high volume, highest output |
| Different sizes | Each station runs its own size, for example three stations and three sizes | Small mixed lots and orders with several sizes, with no stop for changeover |
You can switch between the two with the order book: all stations on the main size in peak season, separate sizes the rest of the time.
Dome radius and hole diameter are set separately
- The dome radius is adjusted on the machine, with no mold change.
- The hole diameter is adjusted independently of the dome radius.
- Radius and hole are set per station, so three stations can make three different ends.
What a size change needs
To change tube size, swap the jaw set and guide tube on that station, one set per size. The other stations keep producing.
Choosing stations and model
| Model | End form | Tube OD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| TD-31040 | Dome | Ø10–40 mm | Single-, two- and three-station sets |
| TD-31050 (TD-351) | Dome | Ø15–50 mm | Larger diameters and heavier walls |
| TD-21025 | Flat | Ø10–25 mm | Flat end, closed or with a hole |
| TD-332 (TD-311) | Dome | Ø15–28 mm | Single station with automatic loading and unloading |
| TD-382 NC | Dome, flat, hole | Large heavy-wall tube | Servo X and Y axes, shape set in the program |
- Few sizes, high volume: three stations on one size, or add automatic loading.
- Many sizes, modest volume each: one size per station.
- End shapes change often, large diameter or heavy wall: the TD-382 NC servo machine.
Related videos
 TD-31040 Hydraulic 3-Station Arc-Type Tube Closing Machine |  TD-31040 Gas Spring Cylinder Closing – OD15/18/21 on One Machine |  TD-31040 Three-Station Arc-Top Closing |
More machine videos on our YouTube channel: youtube.com/@closingmachine
FAQ
Can one station make a closed end and another an end with a hole?
Yes. Dome radius and hole diameter are set separately on each station.
Can we start with one station and add more later?
Tell us your current and planned volume and we will suggest the right number of stations.
How do we get a quote?
Email the OD, wall, material, quantity and end drawing for each size to sales@tdco.com.tw.