Pipe Benders

Pipe benders are one of the most valuable weapons in a plumbers' arsenal. Their easy-to-use design make them a must-have for any kind of metal pipework or plumbing application.

Cromwell stocks an extensive range of high-quality pipe benders, from trusted brands used by professionals around the globe.

What are pipe benders?

The primary function of a pipe bender is to bend pipes. Simply insert a pipe into the tool, then close the levers to carefully bend the pipe to the correct angle. Pipe benders work by enclosing the pipe around a hard 'shoe'. The user then pulls the level as necessary to pressure the pipe into forming a perfect bend around the shoe.

Pipe benders are typically made from strong steel or die-cast aluminium. They are designed to withstand the pressure put on them when bending a pipe, whilst still maintaining a flawless bend in any given pipe.

Why a pipe bender?

Pipe benders are a refreshingly simple tool. Unlike most modern hand tools, pipe benders don't require any power whatsoever. This makes them great for remote working, or for working near any pipes that don't have a power source nearby.

They're designed for reliability, durability, and strength, with many professionals getting decades of use from their tube bender kits.

When are pipe benders used?

Pipe benders are used to bend metal pipes - such as stainless steel and copper pipes - to form a range of curves and angles.

They are most commonly used for:
• Electrical piping
• Plumbing

Pipe benders are used when piping needs to bend to fit around an obstacle, or through a gap. Bespoke automakers often use them to bend exhaust pipes and other automotive accessories into shape.

Types of pipe bender

When choosing a pipe bender, you'll be faced with a few options. Many pipe benders or tube bender kits will be designed for a specific job or application, so choose wisely.

• Dual pipe bender - Dual pipe benders are the most common type of bender and are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. When the levers are pulled fully, they provide a 90 degree bend.

• Free standing pipe bender - Free standing pipe benders are the biggest, most robust type of bender for heavy duty applications. They stand upright on their own stand, giving users the ability to use both hands - providing the strength required to bend heavy pipes.

• Mini pipe bender - The exact opposite of the free standing pipe bender, mini pipe benders are designed to achieve portability over power. They are ideal for smaller pipework and weaker pipes.

• Ratchet pipe bender - Ratchet pipe benders look much different to other pipe benders as they use a lever to 'push' the pipe into shape. Their smaller form factor makes them great for jobs where space is limited, and their crossbow-like design makes them excellent for bending pipes that are already attached to the wall.

Cromwell stocks a wide range of pipe benders, suitable for a broad number of jobs. If you need help picking the right one for you, talk to our experts for personalised advice.

Considerations when choosing a pipe bender

• Degree - Most pipe benders bend to a 90 degree angle, however some bend to 180 degrees and beyond for specialist jobs. Consider the bending degree required for your jobs when choosing a pipe bender.

• Diameter - Similar to the degree, ensure your pipe bender can accommodate the size of pipe you work with.

FAQs

How to use a pipe bender?

To use a pipe bender, simply place the pipe in between the two levers, then pull the adjustable lever until the desired angle is achieved.

What is a manual pipe bender?

Automatic pipe benders are available - however many professionals prefer the simplicity and manual control achieved with a manual pipe bender.