Aircraft Tube Bending

Typically, aircraft tube bending is characterized by a number of factors. First, this particular type of tube bending often consists of tight radius bends, some less than 1 X D. Also, the tube bending can include high wall factors of 100 plus, and oftentimes, little or no straight between bends. In addition, with aircraft tubes, there is minimal permitted wall thinning (12 to 18 percent) and collapse (three to six percent). This tube bending can introduce added complications, using a wide range of tubing material, much of which has very poor elongation (12 to 18 percent). Another characteristic of aircraft tubes is its low production with many frequent tool changes. Therefore, if the tube bending is not handled properly, this will add time to the production process and challenge efficiency

TFB Advantages:

• Supplier to most aircraft companies since 1965.
• Our tooling configurations are based on proven results.
• Quick response for aircraft application feasibility.
• Quick response for aircraft tooling delivery.

Another important factor in aircraft tube bending is ensuring the finest quality material is used. For thin wall tube bending, which occurs frequently in aircraft tubes, there are special considerations regarding the material to be bent. To ensure consistent tubing dimensions and characteristics, all material required for a tube bending job should be procured from one supplier and should preferably be from the same lot or heat number.

Tools for Bending specializes in aircraft tube bending, and can ensure the proper bending tools and processes such as these are being used. In fact, Tools for Bending’s tube bending is so precise, we refer to the precision as aircraft quality, or ACQ. Our tube bending is of the highest degree of fit and finish. In addition, Tools for Bending’s quality assurance program for its aircraft manufacturing is certified by the largest manufacturer of commercial aircraft.

Ask a TFB representative about your aircraft tube bending needs today!