Hydraulic Roll Benders

As a general rule for mild steel, deduct 2 times the material thickness for a 90-degree bend; for air bending, the bend deduction is roughly 1.7 times the material thickness for a standard V-die opening — exact figures vary by material, die width, and springback.

You should never exceed the manufacturer's rated tonnage or material thickness capacity, nor should you ever attempt to adjust, load, or clear jammed stock while the hydraulic pump is engaged and the ram or rolls are in motion.

Always wear ANSI-approved safety glasses and heavy leather work gloves, keep your hands well clear of the pinch points and moving dies, and ensure the workpiece is securely clamped before activating the machine.

A former (or matching die/mandrel) must be used to provide precise interior and exterior support to the tube walls during the bend, preventing the metal from kinking, collapsing, flattening, or forming wrinkles, which is critical for maintaining an unobstructed inner diameter and full fluid flow capacity in high-pressure hydraulic lines.

Regular maintenance of a hydraulic roll or tube bender involves checking fluid levels and replacing hydraulic oil annually, inspecting hoses and fittings for leaks or wear, keeping guide rolls and shafts clean and free of metal debris, and periodically greasing all pivot points, bearings, and lead screws to ensure smooth operation.

To set up a hydraulic roll or tube bender like our Eagle or Ellis Eagle models, secure the machine to a stable base, select and install the correct die or roller set for your tube size and material, position the stock against the guide, and make a test bend on scrap material to confirm the setup before running your actual workpiece.