Steve Parrow

Just as tube and pipe bending applications vary in myriad characteristics, so too do wiper dies. Matching the die to the bend is the first step in producing an optimal bend and keeping the cost under control.

The ultimate, repeatable setup for a tube bending application can be elusive, but not for the reason that many fabricators think. Often the tooling is worn or inadequate for the application, leading some machine operators to compensate by using excessive bender force.

The use of square and rectangular tubing is on the increase. Fabricators who understand the processes, material, and tooling stand the best chance of success in bending these shapes, which are substantially more challenging than like-sized rounds.