Stainless Steel Tube Bending Process

Ever wonder about the stainless steel tube bending process? Honestly, you probably haven’t. Most people see the steel tube after the bending process. There is not a reason to ask how. However, it is an important process. An unsung hero for bent tubes everywhere. So, what is the bending process?

What The Tube Bending Process Does?

Although stainless steel is a hard material, it is ductile and malleable. This allows the steel to be bent into a variety of shapes through mechanical needs. The bending process allows you to bend stainless steel into many configurations. But, how do we get these configurations in the first place?

Basic Tube Bending

In order to create a bend, significant and direct pressure must be placed on the steel. The pressure needs to come from specialized equipment. However, there are variables that need to be accounted for. These variables include the size, weld, and quality. The thickness of the tube also contributes to a successful bend. While it takes more pressure, thicker tubes are less likely to fail. As a result, these tubes sometimes have to be bent with specific tools and machines.

Method of Tube Bending

Stainless steel can be bent by using soft rollers that apply the necessary force that it needs. The process uses these rollers that force the tube over and around a die, that is designed to change the shape. When the tube has pressure applied around the die, it will make a bend. During a process, a mandrel is inserted inside of the tube to prevent the tube from losing its internal shape. While there are limitations with the angle, these bends tend to be sharper compared to other methods.

Uses of Bent Stainless Steel Tubes

Without a doubt, bent stainless steel tubes are fundamental in a variety of fields and industries. Stainless steel tubes are staples in many industries, such as food processing, engines, and automotive. Furthermore, stainless steel can be put to structural and decorative uses.

The stainless steel tube bending process allows for a variety of configurations to be made. However, getting the type of bends you need can be challenging. Especially, if it is a custom bend. That is where Detroit Tube Products comes in. Since 1911, our company has specialized in bending tubes for a wide variety of uses and industries. This includes a variety of dies to create bends catered to your needs. We are the full-service solution for your tubing needs.