Bending pipes and tubes using a pipe bender is a fairly simple job. However, if you are new at using the bender, there will be a learning curve before you are accustomed to the job. In such cases, it is always best to take advice from experienced and knowledgeable technicians. They can provide you with a variety of tips to help with your pipe bending work.
Tips for Pipe Bending When Using a Pipe Bender
The following expert tips should help you to complete the learning curve and be prepared to take on pipe bending projects.
- Learn Spot Measurement: When placing pipes in the bender, the pipes are usually secured at one end. To ensure that you bend the pipe at the right spot and angle, find the center, and using it as a base point, measure the length of the pipe. This will help you find the exact spot to make the bend.
- Practice the Bending Motion: The bending process requires a smooth yet fast motion. If you start bending pipes without practice, then your first attempts are not likely to make the cut. Take a few spare pipes and practice on creating different angles on the pipes. Ensure that you are able to maintain the quick smooth motion without hurting yourself. Once you feel confident, you can start working on projects.
- Precisely Overbend the Pipe: Generally, when the bending process has just been completed, the pipe always tends to spring back a little. To prevent this from happening, always overbend the pipe by a few degrees. You can also test pipes of different materials and sizes to understand the amount of spring back that takes place. This will allow you to calculate exactly how much overbending is required.
- Avoid Tube Crimping: If you are working with light materials like aluminum, there is a chance that the tube may crimp during the bending process. There is a unique way to avoid this problem. Fill the tube with water, and then slowly add sand. Move the sand around by gently tapping the tube. As the sand moves around, air bubbles will be created in the tube. Post this, you can bend the tube using the normal process.
- Check the Dies: Many times, the dies can shift on the ram during the bending process. Hence, it is important to ensure that the die is properly seated on the ram. Also, check whether the roller shafts are engaging with the frame. This will ensure that both the pipe and bender will not get damaged during the bending process.
- Don’t Use Damaged Goods: If the bender or any of its supporting accessories have been damaged, do not use the equipment till you get the repairs done.
- Maintain the Bender: Always clean and wipe down the bender when you are not using it. Store it in a clean dry location. Keep it out of reach of any authorized person.
These various tips can help you to make your pipe bending process fast and accurate. Interested in buying a pipe bender? Check out Woodward Fab’s pipe and tube bender. We provide simple, powerful, and easy-to-use equipment. Peruse the concise information about our benders. Watch our videos to see these products in action. Need more information? Give a call to Darren O’Brien, Manager at Woodward Fab.