Learn How To Use A Pipe Bender Effectively

learn how to use a pipe bender effectively

How to Use a Pipe Bender: Mastering the Art

It's true for everyone, whether we use it professionally or for personal reasons such as hobbies or home repair. Machine-related hazards are, after all, one of the most common mistakes that cause harm, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

The pipe bender is one machine in particular that I'd like to discuss. Bending tubes and pipes is made easier and simpler with a pipe bender. However, before you can use one, you must first understand how to use an easy to clean  pipe bender, the various sorts of pipes that may be bent, and the various pipe bender types you may encounter, whether you're using one for business or at home.

Knowing these will not only make your job easier the next time you use it, but it will also increase your confidence and safety while using it and improve the quality of your bent pipes. If you're still unsure how it works, it's always a good idea to seek assistance from experts or ask someone more experienced to assist you, especially if it's your first time using it.

WHAT IS A PIPE BENDER?

 

Precise Pipe Bender Tool

 

Pipe benders are tools that are used in the tube bending or pipe bending process. Pipe benders are not required for tube bending. However, they can be quite helpful in terms of comfort and convenience. Because this is an irreversible procedure, attempting to return pipes to their former shape may break or be damaged, lowering their quality.

Pipe benders are tools used to bend various types of pipes and tubes. It can work on multiple metals, including steel, aluminium, and copper, and then shape them into different shape size and angles.

HOW DOES A PIPE BENDER WORK?

The user of a pipe bender pulls the bender's handles to force the pipe around the former (shoe). Because the tube is squeezed between the former and the roller, it causes the pipe to take the former's shape when the operator presses the handles together. To push the pipe, you must apply pressure, but the pipe must keep most of its shape to retain it in good operating order.

The pipe bender will have to be larger or thicker than the pipe that has to be bent. Longer handles allow for greater force to be applied to the tube. The shoe must precisely fit the pipe to avoid distortion by retaining it. Former sizes are divided into categories based on pipe diameter, making it simple to match a former to your line.

To construct a precise bend at the correct angle, measure where on the pipe you want to bend and how far around the former you need to bend. To aid with this, the former frequently have angle markings.

HOW TO USE PIPE BENDER TOOL (STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS)

Step 1: Die Installation

It's the initial step in the bending procedure. Consider the amount of the pipe to be bent first, and then choose a die based on that size. Remove the die's pivot pin and properly insert it in the die slot. To keep the die in place, use the pivot pin. After that, double-check that the die is properly placed. It would reduce the odds of making a mistake while bending the pipe. It is always a good idea to pick a die that meets the needs of the bent tube.

Step 2: Prepare The Follower Block

After successfully inserting the die, the next most critical step is installing the follower block. If fitted correctly, this block plays a crucial role in a pipe's exact and error-free bending. Keep enough room for the tube inserted, and set the follower block close to the die. You will now be required to lock the block's place. To accomplish so, plug the follower's block pin into the follower block and the bender's main arm. Next, adjust the adjustment dial to the desired radius for bending the tube or pipe. Another factor to consider is whether or not to employ a vice. If you're working on a line with a substantial wall thickness, it's always advisable to use the vice.

Step 3: Pipe Placement

How you position the pipe is critical because it will determine how it bends. You can bend the pipe several times. Mark the line where you want it to bend at the locations where you want it to bend. It would help if you made these markers on the opposite side of the bend direction to be used to track progress.

Remember that the pipe's size must match the die and follower block, or it will not fit. Insert the pipe and adjust the follower block's height, so it fits properly between the block and the die. When you insert the pipe into the machine, the position of the die may vary. As a result, after the tube is in place, return the die to its original position.

Always maintain the follower block loose so that it can be adjusted to the height of the tube or pipe inserted. Between the dice and the follower block, you must hold the pipe. When inserting the line into the machine, ensure they're aligned.

Step 4: Installation of U-Strap

The U-strap is a component of the pipe bender. It's one of the most critical components, as it aids in holding the pipe in position properly and firmly when you bend it with the tool. The U-lug straps and pin are responsible for this. The follower block and pipe size determine the pin's size.

You must first remove the pin to place the strap over the pipe. Re-insert the pin after the strap is in position.

After that, secure the pivot arms to the die. It will help the bending process go more smoothly. Align the pipe, so the previously marked lines are at the die's leading edge. To see through the drive pin holes is a simple way to accomplish this.

Step 5: Insert the Drive Pin

The driving pin is the component that allows the pipe to bend by securing the pivot arms to the die. As a result, you must put this drive pin into the space between the die and the components for the arms to move properly.

 

Efficient Pipe Bending

 

Step 6: Pipe Alignment Checking

Do you recall the markings you made in step #3? In this step, these markers are significant. Use these markings to align the pipe. Ensure that the edge of the die and these marks are in a straight line. You can glance at the tube via the holes of the driving pins to determine its exact location and markings. Examine the pivot arms as well. In most cases, these arms are loose, and you'll need to pull them to create tension.

Step 7: Adjusting the Degree Pointer

The angle where the pipe is bent is measured with the degree pointer. As a result, the tip must be set to zero degrees to begin with. The pointer is positioned on the lug's edge. A thumbscrew connected to it is then used to secure it to the lug. Fasten the tensioner bolt, usually located near the die, once you've achieved this configuration. The first notch of the drive rack must now be connected with the pivot arm's sleeve.

Step 8: Bending

Until now, all of the steps have been about the modifications you must make for the pipe to bend effectively. It's where the actual bending takes place.

Pull the handles of the device to bend the pipe. The die will rotate, and the pivot arms will open as a result. The pipe will begin to bend gradually, with the degree marker indicating the pipe's curvature. Then, starting with the first notch, engage each gap one at a time, pulling the handle each time. Carry on like this until you approach the drive rack's last notch. To add a little tension, pull the pivot arms.

Next, grasp the roll support arm and move it to the bending die's desired degree mark. You must address the spring back degree at this point. After bending, most pipes and tubes have some spring return. On the other hand, steel pipes may have a greater spring back than copper pipes. As a result, you must guarantee your account for the procedure.

Step 9: Pipe Removal Preparation

Remove the release lever while holding the handle in the closed position. Remove the drive pins and loosen the pivot arms that are in tension, one by one. Change the driving pin's position and place it in the next hole. Continue bending until you've attained the desired bend.

Step 10: Remove the Pipe

Remove the pipe using reverse engineering. Begin by loosening the tensioner bolt and using a U-strap pin and a drive pin. Close the pivot arms and slowly remove the pipe from the machine as the final step.

PIPE BENDERS FORMS

 

Pro Pipe Bending Equipment

 

Dual pipe, ergonomic,  small pipe, free-standing, ratchet pipe, and conduit pipe are the kinds of pipe benders. Each style of pipe bender has a particular purpose and produces varied pipe-bending effects.

Dual Pipe Benders

It's a manual bender with two handles that can bend tubes into various angles, albeit the most typical bend is a 90-degree curve. When the pipe is inserted, and the two handles are pressed together, the pipe bends.

Due to the manual nature of this pipe bender, your capability to bend specific types of pipes may be limited. Aluminum and plastic pipes may be easier to turn with twin pipe benders, but materials like steel and cast iron may be more challenging.

Ergonomic Pipe Bender

This hand tool has a long, curved handle that makes things simpler to bend pipes with less power, but it has a considerably smaller range of applications. It's only good for 10 to 15 millimetre (0.6-inch) pipes and can bend them up to 180 degrees.

Mini and Micro Pipe Bender

Pipes that are too tiny for the dual pipe bender are bent with the mini pipe bender. Unlike the larger pipe benders, its formers are securely linked to the bender and cannot be removed.

Mini pipe benders have three slots that accommodate pipes with diameters of 6, 8, and 10 millimetres. If you still have too large pipes, you may need to acquire a tiny pipe bender. It may be operated with just one hand and is frequently used in electrical systems that require smaller, thinner pipes ranging in size from 3 to 6 millimetres.

Conduit Pipe Bender

The conduit pipe bender was designed specifically for electrical wire conduit pipes. Compared to other pipe benders, this one has only one handle and requires the use of the floor or another flat surface to bend.

For steel pipes, it's suggested that you use this type of pipe bender with longer handles since the length can provide additional force. Place the tube into the bender and put it on the ground before inserting wires or cables. You'll then use the handle to bend the line, using your feet and the floor as leverage.

If cables or wires are inside the pipe, don't use the conduit pipe bender since the process may harm the wires.

Ratchet Pipe Bender

Ratchet pipe benders have a lever that forces the former into the pipe to twist it inwards instead of using your force. As a result, its structure differs from other pipe benders, and it can only bend up to 90 degrees.

It's useful for applications when the room is restricted, and other forms of pipe benders aren't appropriate or practical. It can bend pipe sizes ranging from 10 to 32 millimetres with ratchet pipe benders.

Free-standing Pipe Bender

Free-standing pipe benders are the largest of the group, having two legs that allow you to bend thicker and larger pipes with both hands. The user's increased pressure can aid in the bending of stronger-material pipes.

PIPE BENDING TIPS USING A PIPE BENDER

Here are a few pointers from pipe-bending professionals to help you get the perfect bend:

  1. Ensure the former and bender roller sizes are accurate for the pipe size when using a hydraulic pipe bender.
  2. Take measurements of the pipe from the middle, as most pipes are attached at one end. It will provide you with a precise measurement.
  3. Practice bending several times until you get it right. A smoother bend will result from a rapid, snappy action.
  4. When pipes are bent, they tend to spring back slightly. It'll be crucial to overbend the tube to get the appropriate amount of bend. Make sure to account for the amount of spring back that will occur and over-bend the tube accordingly. An overbent tube is difficult to straighten. As a result, the percentage of spring back must be carefully measured.
  5. When lighter materials like aluminum and steel tubes are bent, they tend to crimp. You can readily prevent this by giving the pipes a stiffer structure. Fill the tube halfway with water, then gradually add sand. The sand inside will be moved by gentle tapping, pushing the air bubbles to escape. In bending pipes that emit heat, this procedure is ineffective. Because of the heat, the water in the pipes will turn to steam, leading it to explode.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What should I take note of in pipe bending?

Paying attention to the details when using a pipe bender to bend pipes is critical. The appropriate approach to bending the tubes will ensure they endure longer and work flawlessly. A badly bent pipe can cost you money and reduce your output. As a result, using the proper pipe bending methods is critical.

Can you bend square tubing with a pipe bender?

A special tool, such as a pipe bender, can be used to bend rectangular or square pipes. The tube is gently squeezed inside during the process to allow the substance to flow.

This pipe bending method is cheaper and faster than a mandrel bending machine.

MAKE PIPE BENDING EASIER WITH THE RIGHT PIPE BENDER FROM HVAC SHOP

 

Top-Notch Pipe Bender

 

Start bending those pipes with the perfect tool from your trusted brands. HVAC Shop offers different types of pipe benders that will make any pipe bending an easier task than it has to be.

Are you looking for more HVAC tools in Australia? Please visit our online store and find everything you need! You may also contact our customer support for more assistance.