Induction Bending Pipe/Tubing Process

Induction bending is a crucial process in the fabrication of piping and pipeline systems, allowing for the creation of precise bends to accommodate various installation requirements. This advanced technique involves several meticulously orchestrated steps to ensure the quality and integrity of the final product.

Top 9 Steps

The following steps are performed for the induction bending of piping or pipeline system:

1. The pre-inspected pipe or pipeline to be bent is placed in the machine bed and clamped hydraulically.
2. Around the pipe, induction heating coils and cooling coils are mounted. To ensure uniform heating, the induction coil can be adjusted with a 3-plane movement.
3. By adjusting the radius arm and front clamp, the required bend radius can be fixed. There is one pointer to display the correct degree of turning.
4. Arc lengths are marked on the pipe. The pipe can be moved slowly whilst the bending force is applied by a fixed radius arm arrangement.
5. Once everything is set as required, hydraulic pressure, water level, and switches are inspected and then the induction bending operation is started.
6. Upon reaching the required temperature range, the pipe is pushed forward slowly at a speed of 10-40 mm/min, and the operation is stopped when the specified bend angle and pre-determined arc length is reached.
7. Just beyond the induction coil, the heated pipe material is quenched using a water spray on the outside surface of the pipe.
8. In the next step, the induction bend is removed and sent for inspection and measurement of tolerances.
9. The final step for the induction bends is the use of post-bend heat treatments for stress relieving, normalizing, etc.

Induction bends are normally produced at standard bend angles (e.g. 45°, 90°, etc.). However, depending on the requirement they can be custom-made to specific bend angles. Compound out-of-plane bends in a single joint of pipe can also be produced. The bend radius for induction bending is specified as a function of the nominal pipe diameter (D) like 5D, 30D, 60D bends, etc. Fig. 2 below provides a schematic diagram of the induction bending mechanism.

Seven Important Parameters That Affect The Induction Bending Square Pipe Process

• Pipe Diameter
• Surface Contamination
• Process Parameters like Temperature, Speed, Cooling rate, etc
• Bend Radius
• Bend Angle
• Process Interruptions
• Hardenability of the Pipe Material, etc.

Induction Bending Standards

As the complex induction bending process involves various steps for producing bends, it must be controlled precisely to produce quality items. Different codes and standards govern this process. The most conventional and widely used standards for the induction bends are the ASME B16.49 and ISO 15590-1(en).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the induction bending process is a sophisticated method employed to produce high-quality bends in piping and pipeline systems. By adhering to strict procedures and standards outlined by organizations such as ASME and ISO, manufacturers can guarantee the reliability and durability of induction bends. As industries continue to demand customized solutions and stringent quality control measures, induction bending remains a cornerstone in the fabrication of complex piping systems, contributing to the efficiency and safety of various applications.