Understanding the Basics of Tube Bending Processes - Part II

In the previous post, we had provided descriptions of compression and rotary draw bending. In this post, we shall look at the remaining types of bending methods.

An Overview of the Remaining Tube Bending Methods

Along with the method and application, we shall also discuss the equipment that can be used to perform the method.

• Roll Bending: Roll bending involves using a manual or power slip roll. The slip roll consists of three rollers in a pyramid configuration. The procedure involves passing sheet metal through the rollers, which apply pressure to form the material in the desired bent radius. The roll bending method is generally used for large radius bending. It is specifically used for materials that cannot be bent using compression or rotary bending methods. This method is ideal for producing large coils or parts with large radii. It is not appropriate to use roll bending if the bend radius is smaller than the tube’s outside diameter.

• Freeform Bending: Freeform bending involves passing a single die through the pipe or tube and creating the bend. As only a single die is required, multi-radii bends can also be created with this method. The use of a single die eliminates the need for clamping. This minimal tooling allows for production of bends over 180 degrees. Freeform bending is ideal for complex parts requiring multiple radii. It is also useful if you want the part to be aesthetically pleasing, or not have straight lengths between bends. It is not the best method if your part requires tight bends.

Having the right equipment can help make your tube bending job a lot easier. Woodward Fab offers a variety of manual and power pipe and tube benders. Contact us to find the right product for your workshop.

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Understanding the Basics of Tube Bending Processes – Part I

If you want to become a sheet metal fabricator, you need to ensure that your basics are strong. While technologies may evolve, most fabrication principles do not change. Pipe and tube bending is a tough challenge for novices. It is all about using the right method for the right application. In this blog, we shall discuss the various tube bending methods in detail.

Overview of Tube Bending Methods

The below information will allow you to understand how each method is used, as well as the right application to use them.

• Rotary Draw: Also known as mandrel bending, rotary draw bending is the most common bending method used by fabricators. It is versatile, as it can achieve high quality bends and tight radii. Rotary bending involves using a mandrel with multiple dies, including a bend, clamp, and pressure die. The rotary action of the mandrel draws the pipe around the bend die, making the desired bend in the material. This method allows for the production of accurate components. Multiple radii parts can also be made as the dies control the bending process. This method is not appropriate if the part design is not finalized, or the part has only large radii bends.

• Compression Bending: This method involves using a tube bender, a bend, and a compression die. During the bending procedure, the bend die remains stationary while the counter die compresses the material around the bend die. This bending method is used to manufacture products like handles, furniture, and frames. It is the ideal procedure when you wish to manufacture multiple items at low costs and high speeds. Compression bending is not appropriate when the part needs to be symmetrical, has exact bend roundness, and with complete multiple radii.

These are the first two primary tube bending methods. In the next post, we shall discuss the remaining two bending methods.

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