Theoretically, when the diameter of the forming roll is hugely increased, the three-dimensional deformation becomes almost two-dimensional intra-cross-sectional deformation same as like press forming, the contact area with the material increases, the contact stress gets lower with less difference in peripheral speed and slippage is eliminated. However, using a large diameter roll is not realistic because the equipment itself becomes large. Therefore, we switched to the idea of forming with dies, working as giant rolls in the contact zone, and replaced the rolls with continuously moving die rows. In the effective forming area the dies are seamlessly contacting each other to ensure a tool surface equivalent to that of a huge roll, whereas in the other areas of die row, dies are separated to return by the shortest path back to the forming area, moving constantly in an endless track. This way we developed and put into practical use a new and efficient processing method of "ODF = Orbital Die Forming".

ODF is a new kind of forming mehtod that makes use of multiple die blocks moving in a circumferential direction on an endless track, with this movement being proportionate to the production cycle. The dies make complex maneuvers gyrating and rotating at the same time, however the mill itself is both compact and highly rigid. This forming technology ensures both high quality products and increased productivity. Moreover, such mills are also able to continuously produce pipes with OD over 30", as well as keep up with high speeds of laser welding. All in all, ODF technology is erasing any preconcieved notions of pipe forming, and creating revolution in the process and in the industry overall.