Tube Expansion Machinery

In industries from HVAC to automotive manufacturing, the integrity of heat exchange coils is paramount. The process of expanding tubes to create a tight, efficient fit within these coils—known as tube expansion—is a critical step that determines performance and longevity. At Tridan International, we specialize in providing the high-performance machinery needed to achieve flawless results every time.

Choosing the right equipment is essential for maximizing production efficiency, ensuring product quality, and optimizing your workshop’s layout. This guide will walk you through the different types of tube expansion machinery we offer, helping you understand which solution is the best fit for your specific operational needs. We will cover:

• Horizontal Tube Expanders: for versatile, high-volume production
• Vertical Tube Expanders: designed to save valuable floor space
• Semi-Portable Expanders: for mobility and flexibility
• Specified Tube End Sizers: for precise finishing

What is Tube Expansion?

Before diving into the machinery, let’s clarify the process. Tube expansion is a procedure where the diameter of a thin-walled tube is increased along its length. This is typically done to mechanically bond the tube to a fin or plate, creating what is known as an interference fit. This secure, metal-to-metal contact is vital for effective thermal transfer in products like condensers and evaporators. The quality of this expansion directly impacts the final product’s efficiency and reliability.

Horizontal Tube Expanders

Horizontal tube expanders are a popular choice for many manufacturing environments, offering robust performance and efficiency. These machines are configured horizontally, allowing for easy loading and integration into existing production lines.

Our horizontal expanders, like the Cellular Horizontal Expander (CHE), are engineered for precision and speed. The CHE model can both expand a tube and add a final bell shape to the tube end in a single fluid motion. A significant advantage of this machine is its hydraulic-free operation, which simplifies maintenance and reduces the potential for downtime. Furthermore, the CHE features minimal changeover time for different coil sizes, keeping your production line moving.

For operations that require more versatility or have space constraints, the Flexpander (FE) is an excellent semi-portable horizontal solution. This compact expander is capable of expanding two tubes per cycle, delivering impressive throughput for its size. Its smaller footprint makes it a perfect fit for smaller shops or as a supplemental machine in larger facilities.

Vertical Tube Expanders

When floor space is at a premium, vertical tube expansion machinery provides a powerful solution without a large footprint. By orienting the expansion process vertically, these machines occupy significantly less square footage than their horizontal counterparts, freeing up valuable production space.

Our vertical lineup includes several models designed to meet diverse needs:

• Double-Sided Conventional (DE) & LDE-Low Profile: These machines are true workhorses, capable of handling two separate coils simultaneously. This doubles your throughput without doubling the machine footprint, making it an incredibly efficient choice for high-volume producers.
• Single-Sided Conventional (SE) & LSE-Low Profile: Ideal for dedicated production lines, these single-sided models offer the same reliability and precision in a more focused package.
• Low Profile (LSEM) Models: Specifically engineered for facilities with height restrictions, our low-profile machines can reduce required headroom by up to 22%. This innovative design ensures you don’t have to compromise on power even when vertical space is limited.

Semi-Portable Expanders and Tube End Sizers

Flexibility is a key factor in modern manufacturing. Our semi-portable expanders are designed for workshops that need mobility without sacrificing performance. These versatile systems can be moved around the facility to accommodate changing production workflows or brought directly to a specific work cell. They are ideal for smaller shops or for larger operations that need an agile solution for custom jobs or overflow work. Despite their mobility, these machines are built to handle a significant production volume.

Finally, for the crucial finishing touch, we offer a range of tube end sizers. These machines are used for precisely sizing thin-walled copper and aluminum tubing after the primary expansion is complete. Proper sizing ensures a perfect fit for subsequent brazing or assembly processes. We offer several models to suit different needs:

• End Sizer (BTM & BFA)
• End Sizer (Air Operated)
• End Sizer (Hydraulic – BTH)

Each model provides the accuracy and consistency needed to produce high-quality, leak-proof connections.

Find the Right Machinery for Your Shop

From large-scale horizontal expanders to space-saving vertical systems and mobile semi-portable units, Tridan International has the tube expansion machinery to fit any size shop and production demand. Our equipment is built to deliver the reliability, precision, and efficiency you need to stay competitive.

Are you ready to enhance your production capabilities? Contact our team of experts today. We will help you assess your needs and provide a detailed quote for the tube expansion machine that will drive your business forward.

Original: 12/2016

Rev: 9/2025