What is mandrel bending? Mandrel bending is a process where a metal rod, called a mandrel, is inserted into a pipe to support the walls during bending. This method is used to create tight bends in pipes without collapsing the pipe or damaging the mandrel. In this article, you’ll learn more about mandrel bending.
How Is It Done?
A machine that specializes in mandrel bending is first used to heat the pipe. This machine is called a pipe bender. The next step is to insert the mandrel into the heated pipe. Once the mandrel is in place, the pipe bender will begin to bend the pipe around the mandrel. As the pipe bends, the mandrel supports the walls of the pipe to prevent collapsing.
What Are the Benefits of Mandrel Bending?
Mandrel bending is a technical undertaking that provides several benefits to people in the metal bending industry.
1. Prevents Pipe Collapsing
When bending pipes, their walls tend to collapse, especially when the pipes are not of uniform thickness. However, mandrel bending can be used to solve this challenge as it involves inserting a supportive metal rod (mandrel) into the pipe before heat is applied. The mandrel’s presence will help support the walls of the pipe during and after heating.
2. Achieves Smooth Bends
Another significant benefit of mandrel bending is that it helps achieve smooth pipe bends. As you know, heating can make the metal expand and contract. The challenge arises when one wants to perform a specific radius during bending as the heat-affected zone might change its shape. However, with mandrel bending, the pipe contracts around the mandrel, which makes it possible to achieve the required radius without necessarily experiencing any misshaping.
3. It Is a Versatile Technique
Not all bending techniques can be used in various applications. Some might only work on particular metals or pipes of a specific size and thickness. However, mandrel bending is quite versatile as it can be used for bending various metals, including aluminum and steel. Also, this technique can be used on pipes of different sizes.
4. Creates Stronger Bends
Last but not least, a final benefit of mandrel bending is that it creates more substantial bends as compared to other metal-bending techniques. This is because the pipe doesn’t collapse during the process. The mandrel also helps support the walls of the pipe, further strengthening the bends.
Conclusion
As you can see, many benefits come with mandrel bending. This unique technique is not only versatile but also helps in achieving strong and smooth bends. If you want to get the most out of your metal-bending project, consider using the mandrel bending technique. Make sure to work with a reputable pipe bender with the necessary mandrel bending experience. Contact Metal Works Corporation for all your pipe bending needs.