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How to Bend a Circle in a Pipe Bender

A pipe bender, or tube-rolling machine, is automated equipment that coils metal tubing (among other materials) into a circle, without the need for heating or welding. The machine uses three rolling knuckles, positioned in a triangular fashion, to exert a downward force on the tubing. The top roller places a downward force on the tube, cupping the metal against the fixed driver rollers on the bottom. This creates a circle while maintaining the tube's integrity.

Things You'll Need

Tube rolling machine
Wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Screw the handle on the top of the machine clockwise or counterclockwise to raise or lower the top roller. Lowering the roller will result in more force being applied to the tubing, creating a tighter circle diameter. Use the measurement markings on the side of the machine to properly set the top roller for your desired diameter.
- 2
  Unscrew the nuts for each roller bolt with a wrench and slide the roller off the bolt. Install the desired roller type, depending on the type and size tubing you intend to bend. Screw on the nut and tighten with the wrench.
- 3
  Turn the machine on and guide the tubing over the first bottom roller and underneath the top roller. Guide the tube over the top of the second bottom roller.
- 4
  Allow the machine to roll the tube section into a circle. Turn the machine off as the circle is completed and slide the circle tube away and out from the rollers.

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