The McElroy TracStar® 28 is a mid-range, track-mounted butt fusion machine designed for polyethylene pipe installations ranging from 2" IPS to 8" DIPS (63 mm to 225 mm). Built for underground construction, utility contracting, and pipeline installation, this machine combines rugged mobility with precision fusion capabilities.
The unit operates as a self-contained, diesel-powered system with an integrated generator—eliminating the need for external power sources. Its crawler track design provides excellent traction on uneven terrain, slopes, and soft ground, allowing crews to move efficiently along pipeline routes.
Designed with jobsite versatility in mind, the TracStar® 28 features a removable carriage system that can be configured for both standard operations and tight in-ditch work.
Key Features
- Self-contained, self-propelled track-mounted fusion machine
- Butt fusion capacity: 2" IPS to 8" DIPS (63–225 mm)
- Diesel engine power—ideal for sites where gasoline is restricted
- All-terrain mobility with ability to handle slopes up to 30% grade
- Removable 4-jaw carriage for in-ditch fusion applications
- Convertible 3-jaw configuration for tighter setups
- Integrated on-board generator for heater and hydraulic power
- Patented Centerline Guidance System for consistent joint alignment
- Dual hydraulic pipe lifts for easier pipe handling
- Updated cowling design for improved airflow and maintenance access
- Battery disconnect for enhanced safety and lockout compliance
- DataLogger® compatibility for fusion documentation and quality control
- Optional Combination Unit (CU) for branch saddle fusion up to 9.63" base diameter
Benefits
- Improves Jobsite Productivity
The self-contained system and onboard generator eliminate the need for additional equipment, reducing setup time and increasing uptime. - Enhanced Mobility in Challenging Conditions
Crawler tracks enable operators to navigate mud, loose soil, and uneven terrain without additional transport equipment—ideal for long pipeline runs. - Versatility for Tight Work Areas
The removable and convertible carriage design allows efficient fusion in confined spaces, trenches, and in-ditch applications where larger machines struggle. - Reliable Fusion Quality
Precision alignment via Centerline Guidance ensures consistent joint integrity, minimizing rework and improving long-term pipeline performance. - Operator-Friendly Operation
Semi-automatic hydraulic controls, ergonomic lifting options, and simplified maintenance access reduce operator fatigue and training time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pipe sizes can the TracStar® 28 handle?
It is designed to butt fuse polyethylene pipe from 2" IPS up to 8" DIPS (63–225 mm).
Is the unit suitable for trench or in-ditch work?
Yes. The carriage can be removed and converted to a 3-jaw configuration for compact in-ditch operations.
Does the machine require external power?
No. It includes an onboard generator, making it fully self-sufficient on remote jobsites.
Can it fuse branch saddles?
Yes, when configured as a Combination Unit (CU), it can fuse branch saddles up to 9.63" base diameter.
What kind of terrain can it handle?
The track system allows operation on rough or uneven terrain and slopes up to 30%.
Is data tracking available for quality assurance?
Yes. The machine is compatible with McElroy’s DataLogger® systems for recording fusion parameters.
