Induction bending is an important metal forming process used for creating bends in pipes and tubes. In general, this procedure involves heating the tubing locally to improve its malleability and then twisting to the desired shape under this hot condition. Once the metal is bent, the heated pipe can be quenched using water spray or air. If you are planning a metal tube bending project, you will find that there are numerous forming techniques that you can select. Still, induction bending is favourable for most functional and aesthetic applications. Here are the advantages of choosing this forming process over alternatives.

Strength and Stability

One of the problems encountered when bending metal tubes is the loss of strength. In simple terms, when the piping goes under stress, the vigour of the walls reduces significantly. This detriment can cause poor performance in the final application and loss of aesthetic value. Induction bending ensures that the metal tubes retain their high strength and stability. When the piping is heated, it becomes more formable. Therefore, the walls will not become thin and stretched out like they would in simple mechanical bending. Also, the localised heating minimises high-temperature damage in comparison to heating the entire tubing.

Minimal Welding 

Induction bending is a metal forming process which allows pipes to be bent with high precision. Sharp and slight bends can be formed to match diverse needs and applications. The malleability induced through induction coil heating ensures that you can create tubes in any shape. This aspect of induction bending is favourable because it minimises the need for welding. In a typical tube, there will be no bends at critical points, and this reduces the risk of pipe failure. The lack of multiple joints also increases the aesthetic appeal of the tubing.

Clean Bending Process

When tubes are bent using simple mechanical forming techniques, a lot of friction is generated. In general, processes such as draw bending use high-pressure tooling which increases the detriments of the resistive force. For example, the mandrel which is fitted in the tubing to prevent shrinkage and damage of walls tend to generate a high friction due to contact with the metal. Therefore, a lubricant is required to ensure that the resistance does not cause problems. Induction bending does not have friction issues. So, the process will be free of oils and your final products will be clean.

Finally, you should note that induction bending is an economical process because it does not require welding, special finishing work or lubrication.