Let's Talk About Different Types of CNC Pipe Bending Machines

A pipe bending machine is used for bending pipes and producing finished parts. There are many different types of CNC pipe bending machines. They mainly work electromechanically. Thanks to the latest technological developments, these computer-controlled machines can accelerate production and increase repeatability. 

At the same time, they are reducing the number of errors in the production of all sizes. To avoid problems linked to other methods, CNC pipe bending machines were invented. Modern servo-mechanical control machine technology offers an excellent method for manipulating 3 bending axes. CNC pipe bending machines' operational principle is very similar to other systems.

The difference is the servo drive regulates the distance from the bending plane to the bending plane. Standard equipment is a collet device. Mould moving and sorting, the computer automatically controls the storage of sections of data. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of CNC pipe bending machines and some of the most common types and capabilities.

Main Advantages of CNC Pipe Bending Machines

• Highest accuracy and repeatability
• Low labor input in the production sequence
• Height control
• Fast conversion
• Versatility
• Complex part functions

What Can CNC Pipe Bending Machines Do?

Most bending operations nowadays require only manual help, not continuous guidance. This is possible thanks to the bending machine with the CNC tubing. CNC stands for Numerical Control Machines. It is a term often used in manufacturing to describe a computer operating its operations in combination with programming software.

Popular tools for CNC machines include lathes, drills, and other tools for processing the programming software is used by the operator to enter the data necessary for the operation. The computer then executes those operations automatically. Pipe bending machines operated by CNC typically use a combination of presses and rollers to direct pipes and pipes in the process. CNC pipe bending machines increase productivity and performance with the use of automation.

:: Read More: The Useful CNC Pipe Bender

Types of CNC Pipe Bending Machines

There are many types of pipe and pipe bending machines, let us take a look at some of the most important types.

Generally speaking, CNC pipe bending machines will produce small radius bends, large-radius bends, and oval bends on the same part. They are precision machines that ensure a high level of productivity and repeatability. CNC pipe benders can be used to create complex tubular sections, as they can control the pipe automatically and position it accurately.

They are composed of three axes and a carriage driven by a servo motor. The carriage automatically positions the distance between the elbow and its plane. The CNC pipe bender does not contain hydraulic or pneumatic functions, so it has higher repeatability and operability. These machines can be used in many industries including automobiles, shipbuilding, and railways. There are three types of CNC shaft bending machines:

• Vector Bend Pipe Bending Machines
  This type of CNC pipe bending machine comes in various models and is designed for the automated production of pipes. They come in a variety of sizes, axis speeds, and controllability in acceleration and deceleration. High-tech models do not use chains. These machines can be used for heavy-duty aircraft pipes and automotive exhaust pipes.
• Vector Bend Electric Pipe Bending Machines
  These CNC pipe bending machines are the most advanced and offer a high level of performance, quality, and reliability. Electric machine operation saves more energy than conventional hydraulic pipe benders. This type of CNC pipe bending machine can reverse the direction of rotation of the bending head, providing flexibility to the operators during complex bending applications. These devices are fitted with an advanced user interface on the touch-screen to program and monitor performance.
• Orbital Head CNC Pipe Bending Machines
  This type of CNC pipe bending machine offers great flexibility and can be used for complex CNC pipe bending. These machines effortlessly produce tubular parts with coils, couplings, and hoses, and can be easily integrated with automatic loading and unloading equipment. They are used for computer control on a high-definition touch screen.
  The advanced features of these machines help to simultaneously rotate the head and bushings around the component, thereby reducing cycle times and ensuring optimum throughput. Air conditioning, automotive, buses, and other diverse applications are suitable for machinery.

There are some other options available when it comes to pipe bending operations:

• Hydroforming Machines
  Hydroforming equipment uses fluid pressure to form ferrous or non-ferrous materials into the shape of the die. The components of the machine include a hydraulic pump, pressure boosters, a hydroforming water device, and a hydroforming tank. The press opens and closes the spilled mold cavity to allow the insertion of the blank and removal of the finished product.
  The pump provides internal pressure and the piston cylinders seal the ends of the pipe, stopping the pressure to deform. The advantages of using this method include reducing weight, reducing parts, and increasing design choices. A unique geometry can be obtained in one process, due to hydroforming.
• Ram and Pressure Bending Machines
  The pipe or tube is placed at both ends of these machines, and the ram moves on the center axis to bend the pipe. The pipe or tube is deformed at the curvature inside and outside. This process will bend the pipe or pipe to an oval shape, depending on the thickness of the pipe material. It is the bending process that is simplest and cheapest. For small diameter electrical cables and related items, mandrel bending works best.
• CNC Pipe Roll Bending Machines
  Roller benders are CNC pipe bending machines and production equipment that use 3 driven rollers in a triangular pattern. Unlike mandrel bending, the inside of the pipe or tube is not supported. The top roller applies downward pressure, while the two lower rollers slide upward to deform the pipe. Two or three driven rollers can be used, and the process can be adjusted manually or hydraulically. The process works best when a large radius is needed, such as when producing awnings and other circular components.

:: Read More: What are pipe benders?

Special Customized CNC Pipe Bending Machines

Special purpose CNC pipe bending machines are generally custom-built machines that are designed for specific parts or families of parts. Various configurations are available: from hand-powered, pull handle, to fully automated work cells. Control systems vary from hard stops and air logic to advanced programmable logic control technology. Many different reasons motivate manufacturers to use this style of equipment. When there is no alternative, the best pipe benders will find the solution. This equipment is only limited by the imagination and bank account of the company that buys it.

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