Why the Frame Rings of FX800 and Larger Butt Fusion Machines Are Finished in Black

Why the Frame Rings of FX800 and Larger Butt Fusion Machines Are Finished in Black

Summary

FX800 and larger butt fusion machines use black-finished frame rings instead of standard blue due to material and manufacturing considerations. After high-temperature forging, the frame rings exhibit surface imperfections that would be more visible under a blue coating. A black finish helps achieve a more uniform and visually stable appearance suitable for large-scale welding equipment.

Why the Frame Rings of FX800 and Larger Butt Fusion Machines Are Finished in Black
Within the FX series of butt fusion machines, models from FX800 upward feature black-finished upper and lower frame rings, rather than the standard blue used on smaller sizes. This change is not a matter of visual styling, but a decision driven by material properties and manufacturing processes.
For FX800 and larger models, the frame rings are manufactured using a material formulation that incorporates additional components. Following high-temperature forging, the resulting surface naturally exhibits certain imperfections. This surface condition is an inherent outcome of the material selection and forging process.
If a blue coating were applied, these surface imperfections would become more apparent, affecting the overall visual consistency and perceived quality of the machine. To mitigate this effect and maintain a more uniform appearance, a black finish is applied to the frame rings.
As such, the use of a black finish on FX800 and larger models is not intended to alter the product’s visual identity. Instead, it is a practical solution that aligns the surface treatment with the actual forged condition of the material, ensuring a more stable and balanced appearance suited to large-scale welding equipment.