I’m developing a tube bender which is going to be a modular type design, So anyone that wants to build one can do so making up their own frame and other bits and bobs. This can be as elaborate or simple as someone wants. From manual operation to ‘potentially’ a full cnc machine with rotational positioning etc. The beauty being it can be upgraded in stages as required or left as it is, if it meets the needs of the user.
Although I have foundations laid in place for the system/machine design side of the things. I’m still stuck with one problem, how much force to put into the darn thing and what would be better electric or hydraulic.
Force wise I’m finding it difficult to find a calculation that I think will actually work accurately enough to give the correct answer. Taking a wild stab in the dark with the force is something I cant really do, as it could be a very costly mistake and one I can ill afford financially. If any of you guys out there have a bender electric or hydraulic it would be helpful to know what force is being applied and at what leverage. In the case of electric, a gear box number and the size tube OD x wall it can bend, and if it’s a direct drive from the box or has an additional gear ratio attached. That would be good info to get a more accurate idea of where to start.
When I can find the right answer to the first question it will then help a lot with the decision of using a geared electric motor maybe with an inverter or hydraulics. Both have their good and bad points. I think there is chance electrics could be eliminated by the forces required over cost factors.
I am happy to let the 'right person' who is localish work with me on this project, if they have the interest and right electrical/systems or hydraulic knowledge. Tis a bit of a big project for one guy, any input is welcome.
Kind regards,
Scott (ward eng)
Although I have foundations laid in place for the system/machine design side of the things. I’m still stuck with one problem, how much force to put into the darn thing and what would be better electric or hydraulic.
Force wise I’m finding it difficult to find a calculation that I think will actually work accurately enough to give the correct answer. Taking a wild stab in the dark with the force is something I cant really do, as it could be a very costly mistake and one I can ill afford financially. If any of you guys out there have a bender electric or hydraulic it would be helpful to know what force is being applied and at what leverage. In the case of electric, a gear box number and the size tube OD x wall it can bend, and if it’s a direct drive from the box or has an additional gear ratio attached. That would be good info to get a more accurate idea of where to start.
When I can find the right answer to the first question it will then help a lot with the decision of using a geared electric motor maybe with an inverter or hydraulics. Both have their good and bad points. I think there is chance electrics could be eliminated by the forces required over cost factors.
I am happy to let the 'right person' who is localish work with me on this project, if they have the interest and right electrical/systems or hydraulic knowledge. Tis a bit of a big project for one guy, any input is welcome.
Kind regards,
Scott (ward eng)