Induction bending is a controlled manufacturing process in which pipes, tubes, and other metal forms are first heated via induction and then formed into the desired shape. It is used to create a wide range of structural shapes, including angles, beams, and channels.
Below we provide an overview of this bending process, including how it works, key benefits, and the capabilities available at Paramount Roll & Forming.
How Does Induction Bending Work?
As suggested by the name, the process relies on induction. The metal workpiece is placed inside of an induction coil, which, when turned on, heats localized sections of the workpiece to temperatures ranging between 1750° F to 1850° F. The exact sections depend on the part design and the exact temperature depends on the base material. As each section reaches the correct bending temperature, the machine slowly moves the workpiece through the induction coil as a fixed radius arm mechanism applies the necessary force to bend the workpiece at the heated area. When the structure exits the induction coil, it is immediately quenched with water to minimize thermal expansion.
This process can take up to an hour since it must occur gradually to avoid snapping or deforming the structure.
Benefits of Induction Bending
Compared to other methods, induction bending offers a number of advantages, including:
- Smaller tooling requirements: does not need dies or mandrels to produce bends.
- Lower material costs: machines allow manufacturers to create standard bent shapes from straight materials as required, which enables them to take advantage of the lower material cost. Additionally, they can save on storage costs since they no longer need to keep standard bends in stock.
- Cleaner operations: does not require the use of lubrication. Additionally, the water used for quenching operations can be recycled.
- Stronger parts: eliminates the need for welds at critical structural points, which improves an assembly’s ability to withstand pressure and stress.
Induction Bending Services at Paramount Roll & Forming
At Paramount Roll & Forming, we are a premier provider of metal bending and rolling services. One of our core specializations is the induction bending of custom metal assemblies and structures. Equipped with over six decades of industry experience, our team has the knowledge and skills necessary to accommodate virtually any metal bending project. We can bend aluminum, steel, and other high-performance alloys into the following:
- Angles (up to 10 inches by 10 inches by 1 inch)
- Beams (up to 44 inches)
- Channels
- Plates
- Tubes (up to 18 inches by 18 inches)
Examples of Our Work
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Contact the Induction Bending Experts at Paramount Roll & Forming Today
Induction bending is an effective and efficient manufacturing method for a variety of bent structures. It offers time, labor, and material savings without sacrificing the quality of the finished product. For all induction bending needs, turn to the experts at Paramount Roll & Forming.
At Paramount Roll & Forming, we provide a wide range of bending and rolling services to meet each customer’s exact forming needs. We are ready to take on any metal forming project, regardless of size or complexity. To learn more about our capabilities or speak to one of our representatives about your next project, contact us today.