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McElroy TracStar 28 Series 2

Built for demanding polyethylene pipeline installations, the McElroy TracStar 28 Series 2 Butt Fusion Machine combines fusion capability and jobsite mobility into one self-propelled system. Its crawler tracks allow crews to move the machine along pipeline routes and across mud, loose soil, uneven ground, and slopes up to a 30% grade.

The TracStar 28 Series 2 handles 2″ IPS to 8″ DIPS (63 mm to 225 mm) PE pipe and uses McElroy’s patented Centerline Guidance System to maintain alignment throughout the fusion process. Dual hydraulic pipe lifts assist with pipe handling, while semi-automatic hydraulic controls support consistent operation.

For in-ditch work, the four-jaw fusion carriage can be removed from the tracked vehicle and converted to a three-jaw configuration, providing a smaller footprint for tight installations. A diesel engine and integrated generator make the machine self-contained, reducing reliance on separate power equipment at remote jobsites.

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Key Features

2" IPS to 8" DIPS Fusion Capacity

Designed to butt fuse polyethylene pipe ranging from 2" IPS through 8" DIPS (63 mm to 225 mm) for gas, water, pipeline, and underground utility applications.

Self-Propelled Track-Mounted Design

The crawler-style undercarriage allows the fusion machine to travel along pipeline routes and maneuver through challenging construction environments.

Diesel-Powered Operation

A diesel engine provides a self-contained power source and makes the machine practical for projects where gasoline-powered equipment may be restricted.

Integrated Onboard Generator

The built-in generator supplies power for the heater and hydraulic equipment, reducing the need to transport and set up separate power sources.

Up to 30% Grade Capability

The tracked platform is designed to negotiate uneven terrain and slopes up to a 30% grade for increased mobility across challenging jobsites.

Removable Four-Jaw Carriage

The fusion carriage can be removed from the tracked vehicle for in-ditch fusion and other locations where the complete machine cannot be positioned.

Convertible Three-Jaw Configuration

Crews can convert the carriage from four jaws to three for an even more compact setup in trenches and other restricted-access environments.

Centerline Guidance System

McElroy's patented Centerline Guidance System promotes consistent pipe alignment and balanced force distribution throughout the fusion process.

Dual Hydraulic Pipe Lifts

Integrated hydraulic pipe lifts assist with positioning PE pipe, reducing the amount of manual handling required during setup and fusion.

Updated Cowling Design

The machine's cowling is configured to improve airflow while providing convenient access to components for inspection and maintenance.

Battery Disconnect

An integrated battery disconnect provides an additional safety feature and supports equipment lockout procedures.

DataLogger Compatibility

The TracStar 28 Series 2 can be used with McElroy DataLogger technology for recording fusion parameters and supporting quality-control documentation.

Optional Combination Unit

An available Combination Unit adds branch saddle fusion capability for saddle bases up to 9.63 inches in diameter.

Benefits

Increase Productivity Along the Pipeline

Self-propelled operation allows crews to move the fusion machine from joint to joint along the pipe route, while the onboard generator reduces time spent setting up auxiliary power equipment.

Navigate Difficult Jobsites

Crawler tracks provide traction across mud, loose soil, uneven surfaces, and sloped terrain, making the machine well suited for remote pipeline and underground construction projects.

Work More Efficiently in Trenches

The removable carriage gives crews the option to take the fusion unit directly into the ditch when the full tracked machine cannot reach the joint.

Adapt to Confined Fusion Applications

Converting the four-jaw carriage to a three-jaw setup reduces its footprint, giving operators additional flexibility for tight in-ditch installations.

Reduce Manual Pipe Handling

Dual hydraulic pipe lifts assist with positioning and handling PE pipe, helping decrease the physical effort required from the fusion crew.

Maintain Consistent Fusion Alignment

Centerline Guidance supports accurate alignment and balanced force distribution, helping crews produce consistent polyethylene fusion joints.

Operate More Independently at Remote Sites

Diesel power and an onboard generator reduce dependence on outside power sources, making the TracStar 28 Series 2 particularly useful on remote pipeline projects.

Improve Fusion Documentation

DataLogger compatibility enables crews to record fusion information for quality assurance, traceability, inspection, and project documentation.

Expand Fusion Capabilities

The optional Combination Unit adds branch saddle fusion capability, allowing the platform to handle additional polyethylene piping applications.

FAQ

The TracStar 28 Series 2 is designed for polyethylene pipe ranging from 2″ IPS through 8″ DIPS (63 mm to 225 mm).
Yes. It uses a crawler-style tracked undercarriage that allows crews to move the machine along the pipeline route and across challenging jobsite surfaces.
No. The machine uses a diesel engine and integrated generator, providing a self-contained power source for the heater and hydraulic equipment.
Yes. The four-jaw carriage can be removed from the tracked machine for in-ditch operation.
Yes. The removable four-jaw carriage can be converted to a more compact three-jaw configuration for tighter installations.
The crawler tracks are designed for mobility across uneven ground, mud, loose soil, and slopes up to a 30% grade.
Yes. Dual hydraulic pipe lifts assist crews with positioning pipe during fusion operations.
Yes. DataLogger compatibility allows fusion parameters to be documented for quality control and project recordkeeping.
Yes, when equipped as the optional Combination Unit. That configuration supports branch saddle fusion with base diameters up to 9.63 inches.
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