What is Induction Bending?

Induction Bending is a precise, computer controlled technique where an induction current is fed through a coil to locally heat a workpiece such as a pipe or tube. The section is then slowly pushed through the coil while a clamped rotating arm bends it. The section continuously quenched with water to keep the heat ban to a minimum.

What material can be used?

Any conductive metals can undergo induction bending and the most common types are carbon, alloy and stainless steels. Shapes that can be formed with induction bending include pipe, tube, channels, square, rectangle and beams.

Why use Induction Bending?

Induction bending has many benefits over traditional cold forming. It can form thinner wall sections to tighter radii without the use of expensive equipment and tooling required for cold bending. The process will minimize cross sectional distortion and die marks which would otherwise show up in other processes.

Some of the main benefits of induction bending include:

• Large diameter sections can be bent to a very small radii with minimal cross sectional distortion.
• Thin walled sections can be bent to small radii with minimal cross sectional distortion.
• Material surface will be left unscarred with minimal tool marks.
• Tooling cost is minimal.
• Precise control of bending radius and angle with detailed reporting and certifications.
• Low cost straight material can be formed to the final shape without welding.
• Parts can be formed with straight tangents meaning reduced splices and field welding costs significantly reduced.
• No lubricants needed.

Some of the most common industries where induction bending is needed are:

• Pipelines for gas or liquids
• Energy generation
• Oil and petrochemical
• Power plants
• Shipbuilding
• Water treatment
• Structural sections for buildings and bridges

For additional information:
The Fabricator – Induction Bending State Of The Art

Induction Bending Pipe Projects: