I have a manual tube bending operation at my shop. We have extreme inconsistencies in the material alone, (Hast X) as far as the tube wall thickness and material hardness. Unfortunately this program is set to be removed from the OEM program and only be an overhauled item in the next 2 yrs, which means we cannot spend big money on a customized machine.
So my problem is, we want to be able to bend these parts a little more consistently. Each operator produces a slightly different bend which causes great issues at the next operation.
The fact that it is a manual operation, based on the principles of rotary draw, how can I control the speed of the bend? We have a long handle that wraps the tube around a die, then we hold it for a few seconds and release. Speed of the bend and pressure are the critical components to the quality and precision of the bend. (Adding a picture. Cannot show picture of actual fixture or part due to government regulations and company policy)
I have thought of a flow control valve on a rotary actuator, but not 100% knowing what I am looking at.
Any help on this would be great.
So my problem is, we want to be able to bend these parts a little more consistently. Each operator produces a slightly different bend which causes great issues at the next operation.
The fact that it is a manual operation, based on the principles of rotary draw, how can I control the speed of the bend? We have a long handle that wraps the tube around a die, then we hold it for a few seconds and release. Speed of the bend and pressure are the critical components to the quality and precision of the bend. (Adding a picture. Cannot show picture of actual fixture or part due to government regulations and company policy)
I have thought of a flow control valve on a rotary actuator, but not 100% knowing what I am looking at.
Any help on this would be great.