Everything You Never Knew About Metal Perforating and More

« Back to Home

Tube Bending: A Comparison of the Primary Techniques

Posted on

Tube bending is a critical metal forming technique in the manufacture of building structures. For example, this process can be used in manufacturing handrails, frames, handles and custom water pipes. The bending alteration can be functional or aesthetic, and different angles can be formed depending on the end use. If you want to commission tube bending project for your home building project, you should understand and compare the primary tube bending techniques. This will help you choose the most appropriate method for your project. Here is a brief comparison of the primary techniques that are used in tube and pipe bending.

Rotary Draw Bending

Rotary draw bending is an ideal process for creating precise bends with minimal distortion to the original pipe. There are diverse types of manufacturing equipment that can execute this type of technique, but the process is fairly simple. Basically, the tube is bent using complex tooling to pressure the pipe into the desired bend. In addition, a flexible body is fitted inside the tube to keep the shape of the pipe from getting distorted. In simple terms, this body is cylindrical like the pipe and prevents wrinkles from forming and the walls from collapsing. This method will produce forming tubes intended for aesthetic purposes. You should choose rotary draw bending for handrails, handles and frames.

Induction Bending

Induction bending is designed to create bends while maintaining the integrity of the tube. One of the main problems associated with bending pipes intended for conveying materials is the weakening of the walls. The damage can be attributed to exposure to mechanical stress and high temperature. Induction bending minimises this type of damage by only exposing a small portion of the pipe to stress. Basically, this technique involves heating the part of the tube that needs to be bent using electrical energy. The pipe will then be bent while still hot to create the desired angle. When the tube cools, the strength of the pipe will be restored. You should consider choosing this technique when ordering custom water pipes.

Roll Bending

The roll bending process is ideal for creating tubes that are intended for aesthetic purposes. This technique involves passing the pipe through a series of rollers in a machine. Each roller will apply relatively light pressure on the tube so that the structure is gradually bent. The gradual bending will minimise the damage to the walls and the distortion of the pipe radius. Like the rotary, this method is ideal for creating decorative handrails and building frames. 

If you have further questions about pipe bending methods, contact a company like Inductabend Pty Ltd.


Share