There are many sizes of benders depending upon what type of pipes you want to bend. There are small hand units for bending PVC. There are also hand units for bending conduit and other small diameter pipes. Then there are larger styles that still use your human strength together with great leverage. There are also hydraulic benders that can be operated using a foot pump or hooked up to a hydraulic system. Some of these use as much as 12 tons of pressure to form the pipe into the right shape.
Have you considered whether or not the material you are using can be safely bent? The most common material is mild steel and most specifications refer to the inside diameter and outside diameter of mild steel. There are also a few grades of stainless steel that can be bent. In addition, #316 Grade stainless steel usually cannot be bent. Many types of aluminum cannot be safely bent without causing damage as well. It is best to check with the manufacturer or supplier of your pipes to find out their bending tolerances.
When shopping for pipe benders, it can also be helpful if you classify yourself and your needs. If you are considered a performance auto racing shop, people who sell pipe benders often have a good idea what you will need and can make suggestions. Some people need to have pipes bent for agricultural applications. Then there are builders that need a bender for heating and cooling pipes as well as conduit for electricity and water pipes. Furniture manufacturers will often need pipe bending as will those that design and manufacture ornamental work. All makers of heat exchangers require the use of benders, too. Finally, those that make windows and doors are often in need of these benders. Do you fit into one of the above classifications?
If you really need to bend more than just a few pipes, you might want to consider buying your own pipe bender to save you time, trouble and money. As long as you consider the above mentioned key aspects of the proper pipe bender purchase, you'll increase your productivity and save hassle, worry and money. Consider the benefits that owning your own bender can provide to you. Do some careful comparison shopping as well. Some models may be fancier and more expensive, but in the end, it's the quality of the bend you are looking for. If you can provide quality and also increase your efficiency, you've won.
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