At LTi Metaltech, our port pulling services provide a specialist forming solution for creating integral ports directly from stainless steel vessel walls and cylindrical components. This advanced technique eliminates the need for separate nozzle welding - delivering superior strength, cleanliness, and structural integrity for high-integrity pressure systems.

Operating from our state-of-the-art facility in Oxfordshire, we supply precision-formed vessel components to the nuclear, fusion, energy, and healthcare sectors, where safety, reliability, and material purity are critical.

Integral Port Forming for High-Integrity Fabrication

Port pulling is a cold-forming process that mechanically draws a port directly from the parent metal. Rather than cutting an opening and welding on a separate nozzle, the port is formed from the existing vessel wall, maintaining full material continuity and eliminating weld seams.

This one-piece, integral structure provides enhanced pressure containment, dimensional accuracy, and surface cleanliness, making it ideal for components operating under vacuum, pressure, or sterile conditions.

Applications

• Pressure vessels and containment systems for nuclear and fusion energy
• Cryogenic and vacuum chambers
• Stainless steel tanks for healthcare or pharmaceutical use
• High-integrity components for renewable and energy sectors

Capabilities & Benefits

• Integral port/nozzle formed from parent material, eliminating welded branches
• Cold-forming preserves material properties and removes weld zones
• Stronger, cleaner, leak-resistant joints for pressure and vacuum service
• Precise control of port geometry, diameter, and wall thickness
• Ideal for stainless steel pressure vessels, cylinders, and containment systems
• Reduces inspection, testing, and fabrication time by avoiding weld and post-weld work

Our CNC-assisted tooling delivers repeatable alignment and dimensional accuracy, supported by ISO-certified inspection throughout production.