To bend the profile pipes, you must use a special tool - a pipe bender. Thanks to him, even steel products can be easily bent to the desired angle. You can buy the device in any store, and in some cases, make it yourself. But the last option is suitable only for those who know how it works. In other cases, it is recommended to look for the product yourself. So that it does not take time, the editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best pipe benders for 2020.
Content
Main components
Each pipe bender has 5 main elements, which practically do not change:
- 3 metal shafts;
- The mechanism that sets the parts in motion;
- The body, consisting of a metal profile;
- Drive chain;
- Axis of rotation.
Depending on the model of the device, a polyurethane or wooden roller can be installed there. When choosing a material to be used for deformation, it is important to evaluate its strength characteristics. If a person does not take this parameter into account, there is a high probability of breakage of the main parts, due to the high load. It should be remembered that all pipes are different, therefore, a specific machine is selected for each product.
Regardless of the selected pipe bender, the bending process obeys certain rules, it is important to take them into account so that no breakage occurs. The principle of rolling is most often used in such machines; rolling is also used. The popularity of such solutions is due to the safety and high practicality during bending of various workpieces. In addition, such methods guarantee a convenient shape change without breaking or damage.
Hand-held devices are also available, where the material is fixed between the rollers, after which the operator turns the handle. Despite the simplicity of the design, the workpiece acquires a regular and beautiful bend. However, such a device is not capable of handling thick-walled pipes.
The advantages of using the machine
To give the workpiece a neat and beautiful look, a person needs to use special devices for bending the material. Thanks to this solution, the operator will receive a quality product that will not lose strength characteristics. When using a pipe bender, the chance of damage to the pipe is minimal.
The main advantages of the product include:
- Simple to use;
- In places of bending, the product has no cracks;
- Some devices are capable of handling all types of pipes;
- Safety while changing metal-plastic blanks;
- The risk of part breakage is minimal.
Each user can use pipe benders, for this you do not need to have certain knowledge. All models are highly impact-resistant, as they are made of durable metal. When using this tool, the operator is able to change the workpiece, including reinforced-plastic pipes, at any angle. Pre-processing of thick-walled structures is not required, the product is only inserted into the machine and modified according to requirements.This solution allows you to achieve the maximum quality of installation of bendable products. A person does not even have to use welding, which significantly increases reliability.
Varieties
Regardless of the model chosen, the principle of operation is the same for most products. The main task of this equipment is one - to prevent the loss of quality characteristics of the workpiece during the angle change.
There are 4 popular models in stores that differ in the way they bend:
- Segmental. In this case, the mandrel is fixed between the levers, which are hinged together. The purpose of this element is to set a specific curvature value. Most often, these models are found when bending thin-walled pipes made of soft metal.
- Dornovye. Here, inside the product, which will be bent, a strong metal rod is introduced, which is assembled from special elements. This solution minimizes the risk of deformations and cracks, even with a minimum radius of curvature.
- Spring loaded. Such devices are equipped with a hollow spring, into which a pipe of a certain diameter is inserted. The peculiarity of the device is ease of use, the disadvantage is suitable only for workpieces with thin walls.
- Crossbow. The machines have an unusual T-shape, a movable lever is used to change pipes, there is also a special holder that fixes the workpiece in one position.
When purchasing a pipe bending machine, it is important to look at the material that will be used for the job. You should also take into account the size and thickness of the walls.
Features of hydraulic devices
All hydraulic products fall into at least two broad categories:
- Devices operating with an electric drive;
- Mechanical or manual.
The latter option is widely popular due to its low cost. The work is carried out according to the principle of a one-stage handle. Such a machine has one valve that monitors the correct operation of the hydraulic cylinder. In contrast to this model, the pipe bender equipped with an electric drive has a two-stage handle, which simplifies operation and improves the bending quality. The main feature of handcrafted products is their small size and ease of maintenance. The only drawback is that the operator will not be able to work with thick and durable materials.
Electro-hydraulic machines are popular in the manufacturing industry. Most of these designs are limited in angle, which is 90 degrees. To make a bend above this value, the user needs to buy auxiliary materials.
To bend pipes in hand-held models, a person will need to perform several actions. The main thing is to pump up the handle of the machine. This process is mandatory, otherwise the device will not be able to function. Devices that are powered from the electrical network do not require this action, since everything happens automatically. However, the user should remember that most electro-hydraulic machine tools consume a lot of electricity.
Mechanical pipe benders
There are several versions of this device, however, crossbow-type models are more popular. Such mechanisms have several advantages:
- Compactness. Unlike large machines, this device can be easily placed in a bag and transported to the workplace;
- Ease of bending;
- Does not require an electrical connection;
- Low cost;
- Good accuracy.
Some handheld devices are additionally equipped with a hydraulic drive, this solution allows you to achieve maximum efficiency and increases the range of work. In addition, despite the presence of this function, the device still remains compact, the only thing that changes is the cost. If a person decides to use a standard pipe bender, it is important to understand that it will only work for certain types of pipes.
Electromechanical structures
The main advantage of this element is that a person does not need to spend much effort when working. The whole process takes place thanks to an electric drive. Such devices have high efficiency, which makes it possible to use them for complex operations. Products are often used in production where a large number of pipes must be processed.
The electric machine allows bending pipes of various diameters and cross-sections, which makes them a versatile solution. The cost of the equipment starts from 150 thousand rubles, which does not allow buying a device for use at home.
Rating of quality hydraulic pipe benders
WIEDERKRAFT WDK-87016
A reliable device with a maximum developing force of 16 tons. The product makes it possible to carry out high-quality bending of workpieces with a diameter of up to 76.2 mm, which is a suitable solution for performing production tasks. Profile type - circle. To carry out the operation, you do not need to have special knowledge, a person only needs to change the position of the fingers, in accordance with the selected material, and start working.
The outer part is made of a durable metal profile, and a protective paint is applied on top, which prevents corrosion. Small dimensions make it possible to install the device in any production area.
Sold at a price of 18,600 rubles.
Advantages:
- 8 templates included;
- High quality hydraulic drive;
- Long service life;
- Reliability;
- Possibility of self-adjustment of the angle;
- Small size;
- Cost;
- Equipment.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
SUPER-EGO 1000001833
Convenient design suitable for large production. The maximum force that can be developed is 12 tons. The product is designed to bend water and gas pipes at almost any angle.
Stability is provided by three supports that securely fix the machine in a given position and prevent accidental shifts. The hydraulic drive allows for minimal effort. The set includes 7 bending tabs that are suitable for any workpieces. The weight of the structure is 63.1 kg.
Sold at a price of 107,500 rubles.
Advantages:
- Does not require pre-heating of pipes;
- Closed hydraulic system;
- The piston is made of quality material;
- Simple service;
- Automatic reverse motion;
- Convenient transportation;
- Ease of operation.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Rothenberger ROBULL 57961X
Hand-operated, hydraulically operated device that will bend workpieces up to 2 inches in diameter. The maximum bending angle is 90 degrees. It is used only in professional areas such as construction or when connecting a heating system. The equipment is designed for use by one person, there is nothing complicated about it. In addition to changing the material, the device is suitable for straightening. The weight of the device is 72.6 kg.
Sold at a price: from 159,200 rubles.
Advantages:
- High accuracy;
- Simple maintenance;
- Fast workflow;
- Long service life;
- Reliability;
- Oil filter;
- Closed frame.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
VIRAX 240252
A professional model designed to reshape workpieces up to 3 inches in diameter. It is used in manufacturing and in the construction industry. The outer part is made of quality material that protects against damage and corrosion.
The stable base allows you to bend with maximum efficiency. No electrical connection required. Thanks to reliable elements that are installed inside the structure, the durability of the product is increased. Weight - 170 kg.
The average cost is 218,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Good packing;
- Equipment;
- Maintenance-free;
- Durability;
- Simple operation;
- Efficiency.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
TOP popular mechanical pipe benders
ZUBR EXPERT 23524-1 / 2
A reliable lever-type device that is suitable for bending workpieces with a diameter not exceeding 20 mm. The product works with pipes made of aluminum, steel and copper, which makes the device in demand both in construction and in home use. The maximum angle is 180 degrees, while the bending radius is 42 mm.
The average cost is 980 rubles.
Advantages:
- Convenience;
- Low cost;
- Reliability;
- Efficiency;
- Long service life;
- Strength.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
STAYER MASTER 2350-16
Quality lever-type device designed for working with steel and copper materials. The maximum pipe diameter must not exceed 16 mm. Section type - round. The device will allow most operations to be carried out with minimal effort. Suitable for home use.
Average price: from 690 rubles.
Advantages:
- Strength;
- High-quality bending;
- Ergonomic handles;
- The body is made of durable metal;
- Affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Kraftool 23503-H4
A more expensive device designed for processing copper workpieces with diameters up to 22 mm. Construction type - lever. The equipment is made of durable material that can withstand high loads. During operation, the chance of pipe deformation is minimal. The maximum bending angle is 90 degrees. The set includes replaceable bending segments. 1 year warranty.
The average cost is 4,920 rubles.
Advantages:
- Convenience;
- Durable body;
- Works with pipes up to 22 mm;
- Wear resistance.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- Suitable only for copper products.
RIDGID 406
A reliable option that can handle steel and copper materials. The workpiece diameter should not exceed 17 mm. The equipment is compact, which makes it possible to transport and use the product on construction sites. The maximum bending angle is 180 degrees, with a radius of 23.8 mm. Weight - 1.3 kg.
Sold at a price: 7 800 rubles.
Advantages:
- Efficiency;
- Strength indicators;
- High-quality performance;
- Reliability;
- No maintenance trumpets.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
Rating of the best electric pipe benders
Blacksmith ETB51-40HV
A professional device that works in two positions. The machine is suitable for use in the production area. The bender works with both long and short pipes. The type of drive used is electromechanical. The diameter of the round products is 60 mm.
Sold at a price of 145,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- The pressure roller is easy to tighten;
- Convenient management;
- Durability;
- Robust construction;
- Stability.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Stalex RBM30HV 391002
A roll forming machine that is used in metal fabrication workshops or in blacksmiths. The pipe bender can handle workpieces of different lengths. To change the direction of the profiling roller, you need to use a foot pedal, this is a convenient solution and will increase productivity. The outer part is made of durable material that is protected from mechanical damage.
Average cost: 175,600 rubles.
Advantages:
- Clamp;
- Protection against accidental pressing;
- Stability;
- Assembly;
- Strength.
Disadvantages:
- There are no significant ones.
Finally
In order to choose a reliable and durable structure, it is necessary to take into account what materials the main parts are made of. Only in this way the user will receive an efficient device capable of operating without fail during the entire service life. If you have experience using the models described in the rating, or more interesting representatives, tell us about it in the comments.