Pipe Bending

Pipe bending is a metal forming process used to create curved or bent shapes in pipes or tubing. It involves applying controlled forces to the pipe to deform it permanently and achieve the desired bend radius and angle. Pipe bending is commonly used in industries such as plumbing, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), automotive, construction, and oil and gas.

Here’s an overview of the pipe bending process:

  1. Pipe Selection: Choose a pipe made of a suitable material for bending, considering factors such as strength, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with the intended application. Common materials used for pipes include steel, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and plastic (such as PVC or CPVC).

  2. Pipe Preparation: Prepare the pipe by removing any burrs, scale, or contaminants from the inside and outside surfaces. This ensures smooth bending and prevents damage to the pipe during the process.

  3. Pipe Bending Machine Setup: Set up the pipe bending machine, which can be manual, hydraulic, or CNC-controlled. The machine consists of a bending die, a clamp die, and a mandrel (optional) to support the pipe during bending. Install the appropriate tooling, such as the bending die, clamp die, and mandrel (if required), based on the desired bend radius and pipe diameter.

  4. Pipe Placement and Fixturing: Position the pipe in the bending machine, aligning it with the bending die and clamp die. Use appropriate fixtures or clamps to secure the pipe in place, ensuring it remains stable during the bending process.

  5. Pipe Bending Process: Activate the bending machine and initiate the bending process. The machine’s bending die exerts force on the pipe, causing it to deform and take on the desired shape. The pipe can be bent in a single plane (2D bending) or in multiple planes (3D bending) to create more complex shapes.