Types of Aluminum Bend Tube 90 Degree
Of all the aluminum tube bends, 90-degree ones are the most common. They come in different types based on what the angle, shape, function, and material are. Here are the most popular ones.
By Aluminum Alloy Composition
- Series 1000: These are of pure aluminum, said to be 99% aluminum. Since there is more aluminum, this makes them resistant to corrosion and excellent at electrical conductivity.
- Series 3000: They are made of aluminum with a bit of manganese to increase strength. This makes them suitable for moderately challenging conditions.
- Series 6060: This series is aimed at achieving good corrosion resistance and workability. It is due to the addition of magnesium and silicon.
- Series 7000: These tubes are of zinc-containing alloys. This makes them extremely rigid. However, they are not easy to weld and are usually used in specialized applications only.
Based On Aluminum Tube Wall Thickness
Tube bends are also classified according to the wall thickness of the aluminum tube used in making them. Generally, benders with more tubes are suitable for more critical operations, such as aerospace.
Suppliers offer these based on the millimeter of wall thickness. For instance, there is a 6mm aluminum tube bend and others with 1, 2, 3, and 5mm wall thickness.
Based On The Shape Of The Bend
Other than the 90-degree angle, aluminum tube benders also come with a 45-degree bend, a short radius bend, and a long-radius bend.
- Short Radius: This type needs a small space to make a bend. It is suitable for tight bending conditions in industrial machinery.
- Long Radius: This requires more length to make the bend. Hence, it gives a gentler curve. These are commonly used in piping systems to allow smooth fluid flow.
Interpiped 90 Aluminum Tube Bend
The interpiped 90 aluminum tube bender gives a bend angle of 90 degrees between two parallel runs. It thus creates an inter-pipe bend. Buyers can get single or double-intertube benders depending on their needs.
What Makes Aluminum Bend Tube 90 Degree Durable
- Corrosion Resistance: While aluminum is light, it is also withstanding. It does this by developing a thick oxide layer on its surface. This layer protects it from rust. Steel, on the other hand, needs constant migrating to prevent rusting. In fact, steel can start to rust within a few hours in the wrong storage conditions. Not only does the oxide layer protect from water, but it also protects from any chemical interactions with the steel structure inside the tube.
- Stress Dissipation: An aluminum elbow bend doesn’t just change the fluid's internal movement. It, too, changes the direction of any external force or stress that may be acting on the tube. This is important in preventing the areas most vulnerable to stress concentration from failure.
- Low Weight: Though it is tough, it weighs lighter than steel at the same cross-sectional area. Besides, an internal aluminum tube doesn't just contain the gas; it is easier to handle and doesn't require frequent checking. This makes it challenging to transport or even to install at the site. We all know how wars are won with transport and logistics. Thus it is important that the materials needed to execute a project are easy to transport and store. That is why we win with aluminum tubes in the wars of projects.
How To Choose Aluminum Bend Tube 90 Degree
Here's what to consider to help one choose the right aluminum tube bend.
- Application: Identify the industry the tube will be applied in. For example, aerospace tubes need high-strength aluminum alloys. While tubes for HVAC systems can be of standard 6061 aluminum.
- Size: Choose the tube bend diameter that will correspond to the size of the tube. This ensures the bend doesn't restrict fluid movement or air circulation.
- Radius: Opt for short-radius bends if working in constrained spaces. Go for long-radius bends where there's a free area to ensure smooth flow.
- Uniformity: Ensure the bend is uniform all through. This helps eliminate turbulence during fluid transportation and thus decreasing resistance.
- Originality: Make sure there is a mark on the tube. Real materials provide real performance. They also come cheap if they are found in the market.
Industrial Applications Of Aluminum Bend Tube 90 Degree
Aluminum tube bends have different industrial applications. Some of these are given below.
Aerospace
In the aerospace industry, weight reduction is key. That's why aircrafts use aluminum tube bends to plumb fuel, air conditioning, and hydraulic systems.
Automotive Engineering
Round and oval aluminum tube benders are used to make tube bends commonly used in car exhaust systems. They are also used to make intake manifolds, intercoolers, and air conditioning systems.
HVAC Systems
Aluminum tube bends are used to construct heat exchangers, condensers, and ventilating ducts in the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry.
Marine Industry
Aluminum tube bends are popular in the marine industry for fuel lines, air conditioning ducts, and other plumbing components. This is because of their resistance to rust and lighter weight than steel.
Medical Equipment
Aluminum bends are used in the medical industry to create lighter oxygen tubes for easier maneuvering and better-hygiene bedpan ts destined for one time only use.
Scuba Tanks
Scuba divers are at risk of going too deep and undergoing bends themselves. That's why scuba tanks come with aluminum tube bends. They are lighter and won't rust even when they go deep into the corrosive sea.
Instrumentation
Instrument tubing needs to bend in order to be connected to machines and gauges. Such tubing needs to be made from the best material. That's why it is recommended that 90-degree aluminum tube bends be used. They are tough and give an accurate instrument reading.
Furniture Design
Aluminum tube bends are also used to manufacture modern and industrial-looking aluminum furniture. They include chairs, tables, and shelving systems.
Maintenance, Repair And Replacement Of Aluminum Bend Tube 90 Degree
Aluminum tube bends need to be properly maintained to prolong their usage.
- Corrosion: Though aluminum is good at corrosion resistance, it is still prone to it at times. Particularly when exposed to salt or acidic environments for long. Regularly inspecting for discoloration, pitting, or cracks is important. Moreover, make sure to clean any corrosion as soon as it occurs.
- Structural Integrity: Check for any signs of wear such as dents, bends, or breaks. Operating aluminum tube bends when they are compromised can cause a tube bend to completely fail.
- Secure Fastenings: Regularly check the fittings and fasteners at both ends of the tube bend to ensure they are still securely fastened. Loose fasteners can cause the tube to move around. This can lead to misalignment or even damage to the tube.
- Cleanliness: One of the benefits of aluminum tube bends is they are easy to clean. Use mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can weaken or corrode the aluminum.
Some industrial applications can lead to deposits building up inside the tube. If this is the case, then consider using a tube brush that's been designed to match the diameter of the tube.
- Heat: High temperatures can cause aluminum to weaken and thus lose structural integrity. Regularly checking for signs of exposure to heat is critical, especially in high-temperature environments.
Repairs
- Welding: Cracks or breaks in the aluminum tube bends can be repaired by welding. Only do this if the tube bend is severely compromised by wear or tear. Because welding can sometimes add stress concentration points that may further weaken the tube.
- Reinforcement: For tubes showing minor signs of wear, consider reinforcing the area with aluminum tape or clamps. This will help provide added support and prevent further degeneration.
Q&A
Q1. Does anodizing enhance aluminum tube bend durability?
A1. Anodizing does more than enhance the aluminum tube bend's durability. It also enhances the aluminum tube's adaptability to welding and forming tasks. Hence, anodizing the aluminum tube bend is worth it when there is the need for either tube repair or a new tube.
Q2. What is the difference between short radius and long radius 90-degree bends?
A2. Short radius 90-degree aluminum tube bends are intended for tight spaces. While the long radius 90-degree aluminum tube bends are designed for smoother flow. Thus, they minimize turbulence and pressure drop.
Q3. Can aluminum tube bends withstand high-pressure environments?
A3. Generally, aluminum tube bends can withstand high-pressure environments. However, this depends on the thickness of the aluminum used and the quality of the welds. These factors determine how much pressure the aluminum bend tube can handle.
Q4. How does the thickness of the aluminum tube affect its durability?
A4. The more the thickness of the aluminum tube, the more the tube bend comes to stay. Thicker tubes are more durable and resist bending or deforming under stress. They are also capable of handling greater loads.
Q5. Are aluminum tube bends recyclable?
A5. Yes, aluminum tube bends are highly recyclable. In fact, the recycling process for aluminum tube bends is relatively straightforward. It involves melting down the aluminum and reusing it to make new products. This contributes to a reduction in greenhouse gases and the conservation of energy and natural resources.
