Setting the Mandrel

In order to achieve a successful bend, we need to setup the tools correctly. The mandrel setup is crucial to a successful bend.

The basic steps to correctly set up the mandrel is as follows:

Set up the mandrel according to the table of recommended settings that is supplied with the mandrel
Check the bearings, so that they are all touching the main grooves of the clamp die
Grease the bearings and the mandrel
Remove the mandrel at the end of the bend

These settings are basic and it is necessary to perform slight adjustments after observing the initial tube bend. Fine tuning the basic settings and additional monitoring of the bend will lead to the highest quality of results.

Never set the bearings on the axis of the clamp die, as it can cause the connecting parts to break. Once you observe wear on the tip of the mandrel, turn the mandrel.

Additional notes: If the mandrel is set too far into the tube, then it can cause cracking (normally in the area of the smallest profile). If it is set too far back, it can cause great stress on the first connected part and can damage it.