CNC mandrel bending is a highly complex pipe busbar machine process that allows for the creation of a wide range of bends, even those with extremely tight radiuses, without any pipe deformation occurring and without the appearance of wrinkles.
Generally, this involves the insertion of a steel rod or other support into the tube while it is being bent to provide additional support. This support reduces the likelihood of the pipe breaking or of wrinkles appearing.
Generally, for high precision work, where the bend is critical, it is recommended that ball mandrels are used. Otherwise, plug mandrels can get the job done just fine.
Why a CNC Mandrel Bender?
This is already a process that requires great precision to deliver quality, accurate products. Generally, one resorts to a mandrel bender when the bend is critical, such as exhaust pipes where the interior diameter of the pipe needs to remain constant to provide the best possible evacuation of gases from the vehicle. Therefore, it is essential for the process to be completed to the highest standard.
While manual mandrel bending is certainly possible, there is no way it can deliver the same degree of accuracy. It also is a problem when you need to mass produce a huge batch of components that need to be identical, down to the last micron.
A CNC mandrel bending machine automates practically the entire process, ensuring quality, consistent results. Therefore, you can always be certain you are getting the exact same angle every time.
The Advantages of Bending These Mandrels
Of course, the main advantage of this is the ability to create tight bends without the material suffering any structural damage, deformities or wrinkles. By using this process, quality results can be obtained every time and this type of pipe bending is much faster than standard bending.
You will likely want to use the services of a fabricator shop as they generally have a wide range of mandrel bending equipment available. They can create compound mandrel bends, meaning that you can essentially have pipes bent into any shape or form you desire with no deformities.
Mandrel bending is used on pipes for a variety of different applications, including playground equipment, hand railings, hydraulics, medical products, safety railings and many more. Essentially, in whatever application you require precise bends and deformity is a concern, a mandrel bender is your best option.
