Comparison Between Fully Automatic and Semi-Automatic Hydraulic Butt Fusion Machines
(Fully Automatic vs Semi-Automatic Hydraulic Butt Fusion Machines)
In HDPE pipe welding, hydraulic butt fusion machines are typically classified into fully automatic and semi-automatic types.
Although both follow the same welding process — facing, heating, and joining under controlled pressure — they differ greatly in automation level and operation method.
1.Fully Automatic Hydraulic Butt Fusion Machines — WP Q Series
The Welping Q Series (WP200Q / WP250Q / WP315Q, up to WP800Q ) represents Welping’s fully automatic line.
These machines feature an integrated PLC control system with a touch-screen interface, allowing users to complete the entire fusion process automatically — from heating to jointing — without manual intervention.
(PLC touch-screen interface for fully automated control)
Key Features:
· PLC-controlled automatic operation (facing, heating, and joining)
· Automatic heating plate ejection
· Real-time temperature and pressure monitoring
· Automatic data recording and welding report output
· Simple interface suitable even for new operators
The Q Series ensures fully automated, precise, and traceable fusion results — ideal for gas pipeline and municipal projects that demand consistent quality and documentation.
2.Semi-Automatic Hydraulic Butt Fusion Machines
(From high-end FX to economic B Series — full range of semi-automatic solutions)
Semi-automatic models remain the most widely used in the field due to their balance between performance, durability, and cost.
Depending on structure and control level, Welping’s semi-automatic machines are divided into three sub-categories:
| Category | Series | Positioning | Typical Models |
| High-End Semi-Automatic | FusingX FX Series | Intelligent control, data display | FX160 / FX200 / FX250 / FX315/ FX355/ FX630 |
| Professional Semi-Automatic | Welping A Pro Series | Enclosed hydraulic system, robust frame | WP160A Pro / WP200A Pro / WP250A Pro / WP315A Pro / WP355A Pro / WP400A Pro / WP450A Pro / WP500A Pro / WP630A Pro |
| Standard / Economic | Welping A Series | Reliable, cost-effective | WP160A / WP200A / WP250A / W315A / WP355A / WP400A / WP450A / WP500A / WP630A / WP800A / WP1000A / WP1200A / WP1400A / WP1600A / WP1800A / WP2000A |
Welping B Series | WP160B / WP200B / WP250B / WP315B / WP355B / WP400B/ WP450B/ WP500B/ WP630B |
Semi-Automatic Operation:
Operators set parameters (temperature, pressure, and time) manually according to pipe standards.
Heating plate removal and pipe joining are controlled by the hydraulic levers.
These models require basic operator experience but offer excellent flexibility for construction and maintenance work.
3.Structural and System Differences
| Aspect | Fully Automatic (Q Series) | Semi-Automatic (FX / A Pro / A / B) |
| Control System | PLC program with automatic steps | Manual or semi-program control |
Operation | Automatic heating, ejection, and joining | Manual heating plate removal and joining |
Data Recording | Auto record & export | Manual or limited recording |
Ease of Use | One-touch guided interface | Requires operator experience |
| Price Level | Highest | Mid to low range depending on series |
4. Choosing the Right Machine
| Project Type | Recommended Series | Reason |
| High-standard municipal / gas pipeline | Q Series | Fully automatic, traceable, minimal operator error |
| Professional construction companies | FX / A Pro Series | Reliable, efficient, suitable for complex projects |
| General construction / maintenance | A / B Series | Affordable, durable, easy to maintain |
WELPING — Fusion with Excellence
5. Conclusion
Welping’s WP Q Series brings true full automation to HDPE pipe fusion — smart, consistent, and fully traceable.
For those preferring manual control and flexible operation, FX and A Pro Series continue to deliver strong performance and proven reliability.
From intelligent automation to robust semi-automatic solutions, Welping and FusingX provide a complete range of butt fusion machines for every project demand.