Tube Forming

Spencer Manufacturing boasts extensive expertise in tube forming.

Since its inception as a manufacturer of bicycle components in the 1950s, the company has grown and broadened its scope to emerge as a frontrunner in tube fabrication. Presently, we employ cutting-edge all-electric 7-axis high-speed bending machines that can handle tube fabrication, bending, rotation, and feeding with remarkable precision of +- 0.1 degree and +- 0.1mm. Our utilization of touch screen programming and simulation software enables us to deliver precise and efficient production.

Furthermore, our ability to utilize multi-tool stack capability allows us to manufacture even the most intricate components.

What is Tube Forming?

Tube forming is a manufacturing process that involves shaping metal tubes or pipes into desired configurations, profiles, or geometries. Unlike tube bending, which primarily involves bending the tube along its length, tube forming encompasses a broader range of shaping operations, including bending, expanding, reducing, flaring, and end forming.

Here are some common techniques used in tube forming:

1. Bending: Tube bending is a fundamental form of tube forming, where the tube is bent along its length to achieve curved or angled shapes. Various methods such as rotary draw bending, mandrel bending, and compression bending are used to bend tubes to specific radii and angles.

2. Expanding and reducing: Tube expanding involves increasing the diameter of a tube, typically at one or both ends, to allow for connections with other tubes or fittings. Conversely, tube reducing involves decreasing the diameter of a tube, often to join it with smaller diameter components or fittings.

3. Flaring: Flaring is the process of widening the end of a tube to create a conical or bell-shaped opening. Flared ends are commonly used for connecting tubes or hoses securely with fittings or components.

4. End forming: End forming refers to shaping or profiling the ends of tubes to achieve specific functions or features. This can include processes such as flanging, beading, swaging, threading, or forming complex shapes like bulges or shoulders.

5. Swaging: Swaging is a cold forming process where the diameter of a tube is reduced or reshaped by forcing it through a constricted die or mandrel. Swaging can be used to create tapered ends, reduce the diameter of tubes, or join multiple tubes together.

Tube forming techniques are employed across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), plumbing, and construction. These processes are used to manufacture a wide range of components and assemblies, including exhaust systems, structural frames, fluid transport systems, heat exchangers, and hydraulic piping. Successful tube forming requires precise control over parameters such as material properties, tube dimensions, tooling design, and process conditions to achieve the desired shapes and dimensions while maintaining structural integrity and quality.

Tube Forming Services in the UK

At Spencer Manufacturing, we pride ourselves in being a leading UK manufacturer of tubular fabrications. We provide specialised services in tube bending, tube manipulation, tube forming, tube fabrication.

We offer a complete manufacturing and engineering solution for our customers across the UK, from our 45000 ft, 2.5 acre site in Ludlow, Shropshire.