T-DRILL reduces welding in KOFAMA prefabrication by up to 80%
KOFAMA Koźle S.A., part of the ZARMEN Group, implemented a pipe prefabrication line with an F-420e HOT and a TEC-220 equipped with a 12-metre APS. A key objective was to substantially reduce welding operations.
A new pipe prefabrication line
KOFAMA uses the new line to manufacture prefabricated pipe spools for projects in sectors including food processing, energy and cement. The spools are prepared as fully as possible at the factory before delivery to the installation site. They can carry media including water, gases, foams and petrochemical products.
Alongside the T-DRILL machines, the line includes tube bending and orbital welding equipment. Combining these processes allows KOFAMA to create much of the piping geometry through bending, collaring and flanging, reducing additional fittings and welded connections.
Why was reducing welding a priority?
The high number of welding operations created several challenges in prefabrication: more quality inspections, longer production times and greater demand for skilled welders.
KOFAMA looked for technologies that would reduce welding through tube bending and by forming outlets and flanges directly from the tube material. In the official reference, the company states that most recommendations from partners and industry contacts pointed to T-DRILL.
F-420e HOT + TEC-220 with a 12-metre APS
The F-420e HOT forms flanges directly on tube ends, reducing the need for conventional connections requiring additional welding. The TEC-220 mechanically forms outlets directly from the run tube.
At KOFAMA, the TEC-220 works with a 12-metre Automatic Positioning System. The tube is positioned in the system and the machine moves automatically to the defined outlet locations. This makes larger manifolds easier to produce and reduces the risk of positioning errors.
Around 50% less welding, and up to 80% in selected projects
Around 50% less welding
According to the official T-DRILL case study, the new line reduced welding in KOFAMA’s pipe prefabrication process by around 50%.
Up to 80% in selected projects
In selected projects, welding is reduced by up to 80%, partly by replacing purchased weld-in fittings with processes performed directly on the tube.
A project with over 20 km of piping
The manufacturer cites a project involving more than 20 kilometres of piping, where fewer components, manual operations and installation adjustments deliver significant time and cost savings.
75% shorter investment implementation time
KOFAMA estimated the complete investment implementation at around one year. According to the T-DRILL reference, this is approximately 75% shorter than the typical time required for a comparable investment.
The new line is intended to improve output, quality and price competitiveness. Fast machine changeovers are also important. Much of KOFAMA’s work involves one-off components with different geometries, dimensions and requirements. Straightforward T-DRILL setup changes help the company handle this varied production mix.
Comprehensive implementation and local support
In the official case study, KOFAMA also praises the project delivery. Support included installation, operator training and service. The company highlights direct access to T-DRILL and the local partner network.
For KOFAMA, combining the technology with the supplier team’s technical expertise mattered throughout the project, from consultation and selection to commissioning and ongoing support.
TARGA’s role
TARGA is the Polish T-DRILL representative and part of the manufacturer’s local customer support network. For projects of this type, TARGA provides local commercial and technical contact and works with T-DRILL on implementation and ongoing support.
Source: official T-DRILL case study “F-420e HOT Flanging Machine and TEC-220 Collaring Machine — KOFAMA Koźle S.A.”, 16 June 2025. Original T-DRILL article ↗