Tube bending is an energy-draining task that you can't achieve freehand. Even if you do, it is unlikely that you can bend a heavy-duty metal like a roll cage into your desired shape and angle. Where comes the necessity of a tube bender. It makes your work easier and reduces the chance of damage in tubes while ensuring right curvature. This article will help you find the best tube bender for roll cages and similar tubes or pipes.
Best Tubing Bender for Roll Cage
Baileigh RDB-050 Manual Tube Bender – Best Hydraulic Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
If you're looking for the best tubing bender for roll cage, then you scrolled right into it. The 290-pound bender has a revolutionary design and can comfortably handle high capacity steels with an outside diameter of up to 2-1/2 inches. But is that enough to make it command a space as our no.1 tube bender?
Most users prefer it for its variability on the bending speeds. However, three factors determine the most appropriate rate at any given time; wall thickness, material type, and exterior diameter. The first speed produces 4 degrees and is associated with the most torques. Also, it can bend 2 inches of the outer chrome alloy diameter or 2-1/2 inches of the exterior mild steel diameter. The second and third speeds produce 8 & 12 degrees, respectively.
The tube bender operates in an anti-spring back mechanism. As such, it can extend up to 200 degrees without falling backward. The machine's flexibility allows it to take varying bending capacities for different materials. For instance, the minimum outside span for chrome alloy is 2 inches, whereas that of the aluminum round tube wall is 2.5 inches. The mild steel solid extends by 1 inch, which is lower than the 2.5 inches of stainless steel.
What we like
- The machine is ready for use upon unboxing- no assembly required
- Made of robust materials thus long-lasting
- Installed hook arm is vital in adjusting the device to take different sizes
- Quickened changeover, takes less than a minute
- 3-speed adjust-ability enhances maximum control and precision
- No chance for a fallback thanks to the anti-spring back mechanism
What we don't like
- The machine is quite heavyweight thus not easily portable
- You have to buy the dies separately
SWAG Off Road 6HUKLA Tubing Roller
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Do you work under a limited budget and need a custom metal fabricator? SWAG Off Road is an innovative manual square tubing bender that will undoubtedly give you the optimal value for your money. The product takes several models and sizes, thus addressing most needs. The smallest brake has a bending size of 13.5 inches while the largest extend up to 50 inches.
The "Hulk" comes with one roller die and can roll up to 2" x 2" x 1250" wall square material. Roller bearings are also placed on either side of both the outer non-drive die and the center drive die. The bearings ensure frictionless motion.
To prevent repeatable rolling, the machine has a height gauge that measures and controls the downward movement. The adjustable rotating handle further enhances smooth-rolling. But if you value efficiency, you can unbolt and replace the rotating handle with an electric pipe thread. That will save you the energy consumed when manually rolling the thick-walled tubing.
What we like
- The unit is ready for usage straight out of the box
- It'll superbly pass the test of time
- Roller bearings magnificently ease the motion
- Different dies sizes which you can choose from
- Ability to roll a broader capacity of wall square materials
- The dies perfectly suit both round and square tube and pipe sizes
What we don't like
- The electric pipe thread comes separately
Woodward Fab WFB2 Tube and Pipe Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Woodward fab tubing bender review provides a solution to metal fabricators who operate under a constrained budget. The unit's dimensions are 37 x 13 x 14 inches, and the handle extends up to 29 inches. The handle has an engraved degree ring for more control and comfort.
Switching the operator into the next bend notch is stress-free, thanks to the unit's spring-back system. The maximum bending capacity for both round and square tubing is 2 inches. Note that the machine manually operates- no batteries required.
Aside from being the most affordable tube bender in the market right now, the unit's weight will also please you. Yes, it has an overall weight of 0.16 ounces
What we like
- Very lightweight thus portable
- Best tube bender for the money
- Easy to use
- Made of heavy-duty and quality components
What we don't like
- No dies included
- Requires minor assembly after unboxing
- Durability isn't as excellent as the price
KAKA Industrial HB-8 Hydraulic Roll Cage Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Ask for the best hydraulic tube bender for a roll cage, and any dealer of goodwill will recommend this heavy-duty tool to you. KAKA Industrial manufactures a complete tube bender that will fit most, if not all, your fabrication needs.
First to the endless list of unique features is its outstanding stability. The sturdy steel frame combines efforts with the 8-ton forming jack to provide top-class stability. For durability, you can never go wrong with the cast-iron base plus the rock-hard steel frame.
Talking of generosity, have you heard of a tube bender manufacturer that provides a whopping five dies as part of the package? And as if that's not enough, the dies come in different sizes to accommodate different fabrication works. The sizes, which vary in diameter, include; ¾", 1", 1 ½", 1 5/8", and 1 ¾".
Though it's a hydraulic bender, it can also allow hand operation. To ensure flexibility and efficiency, the tubing bends up to 90 degrees, and the five dies allow for quick and frictionless change. A Chromoly with a diameter of ¾", 1" and 1 ½" and a wall thickness of 0.04" bend up to 90 degrees. The mild steel tubing of ¾" and 1" in diameter and a wall thickness of 0.049" – 0.090" also bends up to 90 degrees.
What we like
- Durability guarantee
- Easy to use
- Sturdy materials
- Manual bending consumes little energy
- Five dies included
What we don't like
- Moving the bender is a bit task-demanding
Affordable Bender AB103 Hydraulic Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Next in the list of our tubing bender reviews is the fully hydraulic and affordable ab103. Initially, the bender extended only up to 90 degrees, but the manufacturer upgraded it, and this new model allows a maximum bend of 110 degrees. Quite an upgrading, huh?
If you have a home garage and operate under a restricted budget, then this tubing bender 1-inch to 1/2-inch is for you. It weighs less (below 50 pounds), thus extremely portable. Enjoy the privilege of making a customized roll cage when you acquire this state-of-the-art bender. Also, you don't have to hire a professional to make such items as a greenhouse, boat fence, or a cattle bowl. You can do it yourself.
Another accessory available in this already optimized unit is the complete set of dies. Each die matches a different range. For instance, 1" die goes with 5" radius, 1 ½", 1 5/8", and 1 ¾" go with 7" radius. The good news is that the dies are effortlessly interchangeable to match different sizes.
What we like
- Flawless and tidy bends
- The simplicity of the machine making it easy to use
- Relatively lightweight thus portable
- Can bend tubes of 0.080 – 0.120 inches in wall thickness
- Doesn't require any mounting on a surface
- Best pricing
What we don't like
- Not suitable for thin-wall muffler tubing
- Not ideal for bulk projects
Baileigh RDB-125 Tube Bender – Best Hydraulic Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Take your metal crafting career or hobby to the next level by getting this hydraulic tubing bender roll cage today. True to the opinion of many, the 110V power-driven unit works more efficiently and effectively than most benders. At full capacity, it will bend up to an incredible 200 degrees, and only four pushes are needed to take it to 180 degrees.
The unit utilizes a powerful low-pressure hydraulic system to work in a quiet, quick, and effortless manner. The outside diameter tubing extends up to 2 ½". The maximum centerline depends on the outer diameter of the material in question. For this unit, the centerline is 8 inches.
The loading and unloading process has become more comfortable with the unit's quick-release die positioner. Also, there are no worries about the hydraulic cylinder losing its position in the bend. That is due to the machine's anti-spring mechanism that holds the cylinder firmly. The outside diameters for various tube and pipe types mostly range between 0.25" and 2.5," and the centerline radius can extend up to 10.5" maximum.
What we like
- Made of high-quality materials
- Your safety is guaranteed while operating the machine
- Effortless loading and unloading
- Best tubing bender for stainless steel
- Extraordinarily noiseless
- Fast and easy to use
- Reliable power efficiency
What we don't like
- Heavyweight thus not easily movable
Happybuy B07GD1DP83 Electric Pipe Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
We're yet to come across a top-notch tube bender with a higher power rating (1500W) than this electric bender. With a high rotary speed of 1400RPM, it's needless to say that Happybuy produces one of the best pipe benders for roll cages.
One of the most valuable features accredited to this bender is its versatility. Whether you want a V-shape, U-shape, circular, oval, or an indefinite shape, this machine is equal to the task. And as if that's not enough, the bends produced are always smooth, detailed, and deflection-resistant.
Did I mention the sizes of the different dies that come with this tool? For round bending, the dies are either 5/8", 3/4", 7/8", 1-1/2", 2", 2-1/2", or 3". Square bends allow dies with dimensions of 1", 1-3/16", 1-1/2", 1-9/16" or 2". Please note that this bender is only suitable for tubes with a wall thickness of 0.5-2mm.
The manufacturer advises that you only bend stainless steel or other nonferrous metals using this machine. Further, you're encouraged to curve only thin-walled circular, square, or rectangular tubes.
What we like
- Multi-functional
- Bend you pipes or tubes to any desired angle
- Flawless, smooth, and reflection-resistant bends
- Impeccable durability
- Operating the bender doesn't require as much experience
- High power capacity; 110V and 1,500W
What we don't like
- The unit is pricey
- The roller may malfunction at times
RIDGID 38048 Model Heavy-Duty Pipe & Tube Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
For top-class bending of stainless steels and rock-hard titanium, look no further than this device. Ridgid tubing bender is one of the best pipe benders for the money. So, don't worry about your limited budget. It's worth noting that this device is an improved version and works similarly to the Swagelok tubing bender.
The modestly designed bender has an extension allowance of 90 to 180 degrees. To further realize the curving of hard metals, the manufacturer specifically elongated the handles (16-inch), thus heightening the control and comfort. The long 2-stage handles significantly suppress the energy applied to curve the materials to the desired angle.
Another unique feature attributed to this bender is the built-in vise clamp. Operational stability is critical, not only for your safety but for the deliverance of a flawless bend too. Thus the need for a vise clamp. One thing I love about this unit is that it locks and unlocks without hassle. The bender's outer diameter dimension is 1/2" with a radius of 1-1/2".
What we like
- Very lightweight, 6.61 pounds
- Easily storable due to the locking system
- Best pipe bender for the money
- Very strong thus durable
- Exceedingly even and gentle bends
- No chance for kinks or cross-sectional misalignment
What we don't like
- The elongated handles may be a hassle if you have limited storage space
Baileigh RDB-100 Manual Tube Bender – Best Manual Tubing Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
In our second last tubing bender reviews, we feature the heavy-duty RDB-100 manual bender. The machine is entirely made of steel and weighs 290 pounds. It measures 44 inches in width, 60 inches lengthwise, and has a height of 68 inches. The unit consists of a stand, a handle, and a degree dial (that's aside from the machine itself).
The outside diameter bending allowance for the tubing extends up to 1-3/4 inches. The maximum wall thickness is 0.095 inches, while the 40 pipe schedule is 1-inch wide. The indexing plate bends up to 206 degrees at one go.
We'd have proudly mentioned that this is the only manual tubing bender with dies, but we all know that that's furthest from the truth. However, one thing unique about this unit is that it blends with hundreds of both tubing and pipe dies. The dies sets can either take a round or square shape. Lest we forget, the unit applies a spring-back mechanism to hold the tubes or pipes as bending goes on firmly.
What we like
- Quick and tireless loading and unloading
- 2-speed adjustability
- The only assembly required is that of the handle and the stand
- A widened degree of bending angle
- Detailed bends made with ease
What we don't like
- Not easily transferrable
Goplus Pipe Bender – Best Hydraulic Pipe Bender (Soft Metal)
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
We did not refer to it as the best hydraulic pipe bender in vain. The heavy-duty machine's entirely made of first-class steel and has a weight capacity of 12 tons. With a pull-back spring mechanism, the hydraulic bender will guarantee secure and error-free bending.
180-degree bending is another admirable element attributed to this versatile bender. Unlike most tubing benders that barely pass the 90-degree mark, Goplus covers a broader angle, thus making your fabrication work easier.
Depending on the bending angle of the tube or pipe, you can always adjust the rollers at six different levels. The levels range between 8" and 22". Six different dies are also part of the package, with the smallest one being the 1/2-inch die while the biggest measuring 2 inches.
The hydraulic bender mostly applies to commercial and bulk projects. Experts argue that it can comfortably bend rock-hard tubes used in road construction, pipeline laying, bridges building, etc. All the same, it also serves domestic purposes such as the construction and repair of fences. Try it out!
What we like
- Cast dies included
- Can efficiently handle wider tubes or pipes (up to 2")
- Requires minimum maintenance or repairs owing to its high-quality materials
- A full angular extension, 180 degrees
- You can use without reading the manual
What we don't like
- The cast dies' quality is questionable
11. 911 Motorsports Tube Bending Jig For Roll Cage
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Metal fabricators are very innovative and always aspire to make new and unique shapes out of any tube. The only problem is finding a tool that lets you design, twist, and craft different forms from any tube. But that's now water under the bridge because thanks to this roll cage tubing bender, you'll achieve all the curves, rotations, and copes on whichever tube.
The benders have a yellow zinc plating and a black oxide coating for strength and corrosion resistance. They work best for 1 1/2", 1 3/4", and 2" tubes and have two cope angles that increase from 10° up to 50°.
Other attachments include two large yellow tubes and two small black tubes. Also included are two large and two small hinges, extension tubes, coped tubes, and thumbscrews. The unit also has a magnetic rotation gauge for measurement.
What we like
Bends any tube to any desired angle
Little time is required to set up the unit
The hinges are vital in bend rotation
Fewer materials go into waste, thanks to the bender's all-purpose attachments
The pivot point helps in finding the right angle
What we don't like
The unit is pricey
No dies included
12. Baileigh RDB-25 Cast Iron Manual Tube Bending Kit
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Baileigh is a renowned brand that produces high-quality and budget-friendly tubing bender pro tools. In this tubing bender reviews, however, we focus on the manually operated RDB-25 cast-iron tube bending kit. It is the perfect set for beginners or hobbyists who are mindful of the budget.
As the name suggests, the bender is a product of a sturdy cast iron frame. It can correctly mount on either a bench or a pedestal. It also comes with eight-round, and a square tube dies. The dies have different dimensions with the smallest measuring ½-inch while the most massive being 1-inch in outside diameter.
The unit's round tube capacity is 7/8-inches, the square tube capacity is 1-inches, and the wall thickness capacity is 0.047-inches. It can also make a full angular bend of 180°.
What we like
A carrying case included
Comes with a wide range of dies
The centerline radii produce smooth bends
Robust cast-iron frame
What we don't like
Only suitable for entry-level projects
The dies are a bit rough
13. YELLOW JACKET Ratchet Tube Bender – For Soft Copper & Aluminum
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
A yellow ratchet tube bender is a lightweight set that comes in a very stylish and sturdy carrying case. The collection includes all the necessary tools for the hand bending of both soft copper and aluminum. The unbeatable quick change and reverse bending mandrels plus the ratchet mechanism make the bending activity fun and effortless.
If you've been looking for the best tubing bender for 1/2, 1/4, 3/8, 5/8, 3/4, 7/8, and 5/16 inch tubes, then your search ends here. The other fantastic thing about this set is that the benders have permanent index marks for stress-free identification even in low lights.
What we like
Extremely lightweight
The reverse bender works great
Quick, tireless, and clean bends
Excellent quality- durability is a guarantee
What we don't like
Best for soft metals only
Quite expensive given that it only works on specific metal types
14. Baileigh RDB-250 Electric Tubing Bender
Check More Photos and Price at: amazon.com
Our last tubing bender reviews is the power-driven RDB-250 manufactured by the renowned Baileigh brand. With a 220V power capacity, this is, without any doubt, one of the best tubing bender for roll cage. So, while shopping for your next unit, you wouldn't want to miss it.
The 32-inch wide bender has an angular bending capacity of 360° and covers all directions. Asides from that, its reliable power enables it to bend up to 2-1/2-inches tube and 2-inches schedule 40 pipe. The tubing bender has an internal memory control system that stores up to 170 programs. That enables it to perform ten bends per program.
Despite being an electric bender, you can also easily switch it to manual mode to save energy while performing soft bends. The strategically located foot pedal control aids in the manual operation. The unit works best for a wide range of round and square materials, including stainless steel tubes and pipes, Chromalloy tubes, aluminum tubes, mild steel tubes and pipes, and so on.
What we like
A touchable screen control system
The unit works perfectly on an index table
Versatility at its best
The bender is programmable
High power capacity and a manual operation option
What we don't like
Heavyweight thus not easily transferable
Expensive
Benefits of Best Tubing Benders
In as much as you might not entirely like a particular product, that doesn't rule out the fact that it's beneficial to some extent. That's the beauty of human nature, and we have no control over it. As part of our mission to heighten your understanding, these tubing bender reviews have looked at some of the general benefits accrued from using such machines. Take a look.
Firm Grip
Pipes and tubes with thin walls give a lot of difficulties, especially with tight bends. The cast dies work to maximally hold the material during compression while retaining them into position. Without the dies, bearing in mind the pressure frequently applied in bending, the tubes will get clutched past the curvature and bowed.
Value Addition
If you're looking to commercialize your fabrication works, then you ought to make the pipes and tubes as pleasing to the eyes as possible. The main goal of so doing is to exploit on the return on investment. With a tubing bender, you can achieve any shape or curvature of your desire, thus attracting potential clients. Always remember that most people are attracted by elegance before they even go ahead to verify a product's quality.
Cutting on Costs
Eliminating extra costs is as important as value addition if you're looking to maximize the returns. Wondering what charges are incurred from pipe and tube bending? Firstly, getting a custom-built unit will save you the money you'd otherwise have spent in subcontracting your project to other companies. Second, create new cash flow by maximizing on the economies of scale. As such, the operational costs incurred by working on a bulk project a one go is significantly suppressed, compared to working on singular and continuous projects.
Cleaner and Smooth Finishes
Tube and pipe bending aims to level any sharp corners that would derail their workability. They also eliminate the need to join the steels through welding. A complete pipe or tube (without any joins or welds) looks very clean and smooth.
Types of Tube or Pipe Benders
Knowing the different types of tube benders that work best for distinct materials is as important as remembering your partner's birth date. There are three main categories of benders; manual, hydraulic, and electric.
Manual Benders
If you operate under a restricted budget and have small projects, don't hesitate to go for this type. They are simple, economical, and most reliable. However, their efficiency and longevity are determined by how well you take care of them. An excellent example of a manual bender is the Baileigh RDB-100.
Hydraulic Benders
A hydraulic tube/pipe bending machine works by supplying a pressurized oil into the cylinder. The pressurized oil then pushes the hydraulic cylinder forward up to the die holder. It then forcibly presses the material and is controlled by the operator to form the desired shape. Affordable Bender AB103 is an example of a hydraulic bender.
Electric Benders
Here, everything is automated. They are the most efficient of the categories mentioned above. Hydraulic pumps drive the electric benders. This type of machine values your safety by utilizing such features as auto stops and anti-spring back mechanisms. Baileigh RDB-250 electrical tubing bender perfectly suits this category.
Best Tubing Bender Brands
BAILEIGH
Baileigh Industrial is a US-based company that began operations 20 years ago. It has marked its space as an industry master in the production of metal and woodworking tools. Pipe benders, press brakes, and drill presses are a sneak peek of the numerous products available on their shelves. Their pricing and technical support are above-par, and all their products come with a warranty.
KAKA INDUSTRIAL
KAKA is the new kid in the block that is already creating a wave in the metal fabrication industry. It came into being in 2015 with the primary objective of directly supplying high-quality products to buyers. Their main products include rollers and benders, belt grinders, sheet metal machines, drilling machines, etc. KAKA is the proud manufacturer of one of the best tubing benders for roll cages- the HB-8 hydraulic roll cage.
GOPLUS
Goplus is more than a company. It's a community with branches in most European and Asian states besides the United States. Established in 2010, the company boasts of a broad category of appliances such as home appliances, stationery, musical instruments, hardware tools, and so on. It's also tasked with the production of one of the best hydraulic pipe benders available in the market today.
Buying Guide – How to Choose a Roll Cage Tube Bender?
There are several factors that you must consider before purchasing a tube bender. Always bear in mind such factors as the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the tool, its longevity, the material type, the bender type, among others
We have highlighted some of the critical elements of the best tubing bender for roll cages below.
Materials
Pipes and tubes materials mostly range from carbon steel, stainless steel, and titanium. Titanium is the strongest of them all. It's also lightweight and resistant to most wear and tear agents such as corrosion, oxidation, and saltwater. Both carbon and stainless steel are equally strong and durable. They also resist acids, corrosion, and oxidation. Manufacturers also make their materials from other metals like copper, bronze, brass, and aluminum.
Machine Design
Purchasing a design that doesn't match the material in question is as good as a doctor prescribing the wrong medication to a patient. It won't work. Some machines individually work for circular tubes, while others are for squared tubes or other shapes and sizes. Always conduct a comprehensive background check to ensure that you purchase the right tool.
Is Bender Portable?
If you do metal fabrication as a hobby (as in not commercially), then you probably want to enjoy the luxury of working at any given space. In that case, go for lighter units such as the Woodward Fab Tube & Pipe Bender.
Know the Types of Bending
Different bending types perform different roles. Let's kick off by mandrel bending. Here, a special steel rod is inserted into the pipe or tube to kind of control the bending process, thus producing a smooth, clean bend. Roll bending on the other side is where the pipe/tube passes through several rollers under controlled pressure.
The third type of bending is the Ram style. Here, a hydraulic cylinder pushes the dies into a tube to produce the desired design. Lastly, we have a rotary type of bending. As the name suggests, the material rotates around the pressure die, the clamp die, the mandrel, and finally to the wiper die.
Tube Bending Process – What Does It Involve?
Operating a tubing bender demands a clear-cut procedural approach to achieve a high-class result and avoid bizarre accidents. We've crafted a step-by-step guide on how you should optimally utilize your machine
Sketch a design
Software such as CAD is an excellent platform that competent fabricators can use to create a design. It is essential in laying the foundation and getting the visual picture of what you're required to do. Also, note the measurements and the desired shapes of the materials.
Select the material
Properties such as corrosion-resistance, weight, flexibility, etc., should guide your decision of the most appropriate material. After settling on the features, choose the tube material that matches the machine. For instance, if the unit only bends circular tubes, go for that one.
The actual fabrication
Once you've settled on the materials needed, the fabrication process is next. Here, you put the material into the machine for bending. It can be manual or automated, depending on the bender type.
Finishing services
Finishing involves such processes as powder coating, plating, polishing, painting, and so on. That is the final process upon which the product is ready for shelving.
Concluding Remarks
Time and money are among the most precious factors in human life. Recovering them is like pushing a wall- it's very hard. It is for that reason that we took our time to comprehensively research and compile a review and a guide of the best tubing bender for roll cage.
We understand that it is human nature to have varying tastes and preferences. That's why we settled on ten different benders, whence you can choose your most preferred tool. We usually advise our readers to either shop directly from the manufacturer or reputable stores. That enables you to enjoy unlimited technical support and product warranty.
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