No matter the
application, square metal tubing requires proper skill and the right machine to get it to bend at
just the right angle. Even with modern innovations such as computer-controlled
bending dies as well as refined bending techniques and tools, however, the
process still relies on a handful of simple variables. Keeping in mind the
following factors will help reduce the amount of distortion you see in the bent
sections.
Type of Material
Before feeding
the tube to any kind of bending machine, make sure that you know your material
very well. What is exactly is it made of? Different metals have their own sets
of properties that you have to take into account. For instance, copper tubing
is softer and much easier to manipulate. Not to mention, alloys made from
various types of metals may also behave differently when you put them in the
machine. If possible, order your tubes correctly by giving your supplier a list
of specifications. You can better predict the outcome this way.
Thickness and Size
When you bend a
square metal tube, you are essentially stretching the outside diameter and compressing its
inside diameter. This is what causes the distortion on the surface.
If you want there to be less noticeable contortion, you might prefer to work
with a heavier wall thickness that allows for a tighter bend radius and more
stretchability. Similarly, a smaller tube bent to a larger radius will have
less chances of developing distortions. Carefully choosing the dimensions of
your materials will solve any bending problem before they even arise.
Bending Technique
With access to a
plethora of machinery, fabricators can bend tubing using more than just one
technique. It is important to note that your method of bending is one of the
vital elements in controlling distortion. Most tubes today are bent using one
of these procedures: ram-type bending, roll bending, compression bending and
rotary draw bending. Each process requires the use of different tooling that
may include bend dies, clamp blocks, follower blocks, mandrels and wiper dies.
Considering the amount of work that needs to be done with specialized
equipment, it’s best to have a plan.
Using Lubricants
The bending
process puts a lot of friction and pressure between the tooling and the
material being bent. Without a lubricant, the tube could get tightly lodged in
the machine. This will only increase the distortion on the metal’s surface.
Applying non petroleum-based synthetic lubricants internally and externally
decreases the friction, allowing the material to flow smoothly and efficiently
through the equipment. A good rule of thumb to follow is to put more
concentrated lubrication on tubing with thick walls and tighter radii.
Using the latest
machines and correctly sourced metal tubing, you can create works of art and
marvels of architecture. Find reputable suppliers such as Rotax Metals to get
started on your project.
About Rotax Metals
Established in
1947, Rotax Metals has be the preferred supplier of high quality copper, brass
and bronze products across numerous industries. We have an extensive inventory
of competitively priced products, and we offer a range of special services as
well. Our knowledgeable and experienced sales team are more than capable of
catering to your needs.
Sources:
Tips on Bending
Tubing With a Pipe Bender, ItStillRuns.com
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