There are a number of different methods that one can employ to bend tubing depending on the ultimate goal of the project. Each style is suitable for a different material and end use. When you start to think about the tube bending equipment you need to purchase, it’s helpful to contemplate your current and future needs when it comes to offering this type of service.
Here are a few different methods to keep in mind if you’re wondering how to bend tubing.
Ram Style Bending
This style of bending is also known as incremental bending, and is often used on light metals including electrical conduit. The material is bent by having a machine ram the center of the tube, with the end result being an oval shape.
Rotary Draw Bending
This style of bending is employed in situations where one is trying to make a handrail or tube for roll cages and car chassis. The end result will be evenly shaped, with a consistent diameter throughout the piping.
Mandrel Bending
Mandrel bending is used when the end goal is exhaust piping or heating exchange tubing. This type of bending is often used in cases where one needs the final product to be perfectly formed, and not misshapen by the process.
Induction Bending
This type of bending uses heat to soften the metal and a bending process similar to rotary draw bending. The tube or piping is cooled immediately afterwards, producing a tighter bend than with other methods that do not rely on heat.
Roll Bending
Also known as cold bending, roll bending puts large bends in the pipe or tubing. This type of bending is frequently used to produce barbeque grills, supports for awnings, and drum rolls. Three benders are used as the pipe or tube is pushed through. In some cases, the rollers that cause the bending are placed in a triangle arrangement, and the process is dubbed pyramid bending.
Hot Bending
This is the type of bending most often used when completing repair work. Instead of heating the entire metal, only the spot where a bend is required is heated. This softens that one point of the metal without weakening the rest of the piping or tube. Visit Roguefab.com for more details.
