How to Buy a Pipe Bender
Introduction
Pipe Benders for DIYers Table
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Efficiency | Reduces pipe bending time by allowing for continuous bending. |
| | Precision | Bends pipes within 1/8” accuracy for consistent shapes.
| | Versatility| Can bend copper, steel, aluminum and other materials.
| | Safety | Securely holds pipe in place for increased safety.
|
With a pipe bender, every home DIYer can access efficiency, precision, versatility, and enhanced safety.
Efficiency is increased as pipe benders allow for continuous bending, reducing bending time.
Precision is much improved as benders are capable of bending pipes within 1/8 inch accuracy, resulting in consistent shapes.
Almost any material, such as copper, steel, and aluminum, can be bent with a pipe bender for versatile use.
Lastly, pipe benders securely hold pipes in place, thereby improving safety.
Defining the Pipe Bender
When it comes to tools for DIYers or professional tradespeople, pipe benders are definitely a must-have.
A pipe bender is a tool used to bend pipes into curves in order to facilitate the installation or repair of electrical and plumbing systems.
It’s made up of a few basic components and, depending on the type of pipe bender used, can be customized with different attachments and dies.
Pipe benders come in a variety of sizes, shapes and styles and can be used for piping of all kind such as metal, copper, and PVC.
Whatever your specific needs are, there is a pipe bender out there that can help you get the job done.
Our Goal
Our goal is to help you understand the basics of pipe benders.
With this knowledge, you’ll be able to buy the right pipe bender for your DIY projects.
You’ll know how to use it to make bends in pipes with appropriate angles.
Using right angles, your pipes will fit perfectly and you’ll get the desired results from your projects.
Once you learn how to buy and use a pipe bender, you’ll be able to tackle any task at home.
You’ll be able to fix, upgrade, and remodel your home in no time.
So, let’s get into it and talk about pipe benders and how they can make your DIY projects easier.
What Sets Pipe Benders Apart
Advantages
Pipe benders are great tools for many projects.
They make it easy to bend pipes into different shapes without having to do it all by hand.
With a pipe bender, you can save time and energy, and get the job done faster.
Another advantage of pipe benders is that they make it easier to get a uniform shape.
You don’t have to worry about uneven bends or kinks.
Lastly, pipe benders are usually very affordable.
You can get a reliable one at a reasonable price, so you can get your projects done without breaking the bank.
How Pipe Benders Work
Pipe benders are unique tools that help you bend pipes with ease.
They have a strong frame and teeth which can be adjusted to create curves with a variety of angles.
When you use a pipe bender, you first need to insert the pipe into the tool’s jaws and then adjust the jaws to the desired angle.
Then, you tighten the movable teeth and start winding the handle to bend the pipe.
As you wind the handle, the teeth move deeper until the pipe is fully bent to the desired angle.
Therefore, through a simple process, pipe benders help you bend pipeline into the desired shape and size.
Features to Look For
When looking for a pipe bender, there are some important features to look for.
Make sure the handle is comfortable and made of a material like rubber or plastic that won’t strain your hands.
Check for an adjustable bending handle that locks in place so you can set the exact angle you need for your project.
Look for a bender with an interchangeable die set so you can make different shapes and sizes of pipes.
Also check the materials the dies are made of - look for hardened steel and changeable rollers.
Finally, make sure the base is wide and stable so that it won’t tip over when you use the bender.
When to Use a Pipe Bender
Common Applications
Pipe benders are tools used to shape metal pipes and tubes.
They can be used to make angular bends in piping for a variety of applications.
Common uses include making complex curves and loops in car exhausts, creating tubular structures for furniture and sculptures, and forming small radius bends in pipes for plumbing.
A pipe bender can also be used in mechanical engineering projects, such as creating radius bends in hydraulic and fuel lines.
In addition, they can be used in the aerospace industry to shape tubing used to construct airplane wings and fuselage.
Pipe benders are a versatile tool and have many uses in various industries.
Pipe Benders In Your Workshop
Pipe benders can be great for a home workshop! They can be used instead of other tools for a variety of tasks.
They can be used to make curved angles and donut shaped pieces that would be hard to create with a saw.
You can also use them to make custom-shaped bends in pieces of metals or plastic that may be difficult to make with a jigsaw.
You can even use them to make your own tools if you have the right supplies.
With a pipe bender, you can easily use it to stick-weld custom pieces, or you can use it to join two pieces of material together.
All this makes the pipe bender a great addition to any home workshop.
Techniques and Tips
A pipe bender can be used to make corners, joins, and angles in pipes.
It’s important to understand the different techniques and tips that you’ll need when using a pipe bender.
Ensure that the material you are using is suitable for bending.
Secure the pipe in the pipe bender before you start bending.
Make sure the mark is both accurate and clean.
If you plan on doing multiple bends on one pipe, make sure to cool it down in-between bending.
Be gentle and patient when bending the pipe.
If you use the correct pressure, the bends will be neat.
Just make sure to not go too far.
Also, remember to check for kinks when releasing the pipe from the bender.
What To Look For In A Pipe Bender
Pipe Bender Options
When using a pipe bender, there are several techniques and tips to help make the job easier.
Always remember to wear the proper safety gear like goggles and gloves when bending pipes.
Some models of pipe benders have groove rolls that help guide the pipe along as you are bending it, which can make the process easier.
It’s also important to practice on scrap pipe before going to the actual job, as this will help you figure out which angle works best.
Also, make sure to use the correct size die for the pipe you’re bending as this can help to prevent kinks in the pipe that can damage it.
Finally, be patient and take your time while bending your pipes to get the right results.
Choosing the Right Pipe Bender
When you’re looking for a pipe bender, there are a few things that you should consider.
First, think about the material you’ll be working with.
Some benders are designed to be used with specific materials, like steel or copper.
Next, decide how often you will use the bender.
You may need to find a bender that’s heavy-duty enough for regular use.
Then, think about your budget.
Benders come in many different price ranges, and most good ones will be more expensive.
Finally, you should make sure the bender comes with safety features, like an emergency stop switch and handle guards.
Knowing your needs and researching your options will help you find the right pipe bender for the job.
Brand Reliability
When looking for pipe benders, many users trust the quality and durability of specific brands.
Northmann is a reliable choice, having been around since the 1950s and continuing to make top-tier tools.
Others prefer the modern take on pipe benders from Settech, which is well-known for its innovative designs.
For a cost-effective, yet still reliable option, consider Shick which offers excellent build quality.
Lastly, Vannucci is a very reputable brand that has over one hundred years of expertise in the industry.
All of these options are reliable, meaning you can rest assured that your purchase will last.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble with your pipe bender, there are a few things you can try.
Make sure the pipe is firmly clamped into the bender.
If it’s not tight enough, your pipe will move and not bend correctly.
If the bender won’t bend the pipe no matter how tight it’s clamped, there may be a kink or dent in the pipe.
You may need to cut a new section of pipe and start again.
If the bender won’t turn, check to make sure the handle is attached properly.
Make sure there’s no dirt, debris, or other buildup in the machine.
Finally, check for loose or broken parts and tighten any that are loose.
With these tips, you’ll be able to find and fix any issues with your pipe bender.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Make sure to regularly inspect your pipe bender.
Look for signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws, damaged parts, and rust.
Be proactive and clean off any debris or dirt before it causes further damage.
Also, oil the moving parts every few months to keep them working smoothly.
If anything needs to be replaced, get the proper replacement parts from the manufacturer.
Lastly, make sure to follow the user manual’s instructions for using, installing, removing, and storing the pipe bender.
Doing these things should keep your machine in top condition for years to come.
Staying Safe
When using a pipe bender always make sure to wear safety goggles and protective gloves to prevent any small cuts or other injuries to your eyes and hands.
Keep any loose clothing and any jewelry away from the bender to avoid it potentially getting caught in the moving parts.
Be sure to inspect the area you are working in and make sure that it is free of potential tripping hazards.
Make sure to properly secure the pipe that you are bending, so that the pipe does not move unexpectedly as you bend.
Ensure that the area around the bender is clear and free of any excess materials.
Finally, declare a time-out as soon as you feel any fatigue.
Don’t rush, take regular breaks, and be safe.
Conclusion
Buying Your Pipe Bender
When buying a pipe bender, it’s important to consider what type of pipe you’ll be bending and what type of bends you’ll be doing.
Are you expecting to only do simple 90 degree bends? Or will you need to do compound or offset bends? Different benders have different capabilities.
You’ll also need to think about the material the bender will be made from.
You don’t want to buy something that will bend quickly or break.
Finally, make sure you understand any safety features the bender has that can help keep you safe during the process.
When it comes to purchasing a pipe bender, it’s important to understand your needs and the device’s capabilities.
