Pipe beading is the process of crimping the end of a metal pipe to form a spout shape. It is used to connect hoses or slide into other metal tubing. Internal roll forming or ram forming is used to bend the ends of metal tubes into the shape of the bead. Beaded metal tubing is used in construction, manufacturing, and automotive industries. Tubes are connected with beads to create rigid metal shapes. Internal rolling and ram forming are used to create the bead. Tubes connected at the ends with beads are often fixed in place and adjustable screw clamps are commonly used to create an air and water tight seal between hose and pipe.
Pipe beading is the process of crimping the end of a cylindrical metal pipe to form a spout shape. Beaded tube ends are commonly used to connect hoses or slide into other metal tubing. Some pipe beading is done simply to strengthen and protect the shape of the rolled metal form. Metalworkers use internal roll forming or ram forming to bend the ends of metal tubes into the shape of the bead. Many different lengths and diameters of beaded metal tubing are used in the construction, manufacturing, and automotive industries.
Manufacturers commonly connect the ends of tubes with beads to create rigid metal shapes. Matching tubes are sized to fit each other. The connecting tubes are slid together at the beaded ends to form a tight fitting joint. Pressure from the raised lip at the end of the tube holds the joint together. Bolting and welds are often used to secure the ends of beaded pipes for a permanent fit.
Internal rolling lifts the bead section by applying pressure from the inside while the tube is held in place. Manual and mechanical devices are used to roll up the diameter of the tube and create the bead in a relatively slow process. The internal profiling process is typically used for small scale beading and custom tube beading. This method of pipe beading is generally considered to be more accurate. Some heavy gauge metal tubing will not fit hand held internal profiling tools.
Ram forming is a faster tube beading procedure that presses internally and externally with a series of punches. The tube ends are formed in one motion when pressed onto the carbide punches. Large scale pipe beading is done almost exclusively using the piston forming process. The rapid ramming process flexes the pipe end causing the metal to heat up. Beads formed by ramming punches may be slightly uneven or cause slight structural changes to the pipe ends.
Both styles of pipe beading form a nipple shape at the end of a section of metal pipe that is ideal for connecting to a hose. Tubes connected at the ends with beads are often fixed in place. Adjustable screw clamps are commonly used to create an air and water tight seal between hose and pipe. Polymeric adhesives and sealants applied to the ends of the cords provide added protection against leaks. If the end of the hose becomes damaged, it can usually be bent back into shape to prevent the hose from breaking.
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