Right-first-time tube bending technology to make European première at Tube 2012

At Tube 2012, all-electric tube bending machine specialist Unison will be demonstrating a machine equipped with its innovative laser-controlled spring-back correction system. This will be the first time the equipment will be shown publicly in Europe. The tube bending machine will also be equipped with a brand new form of quick-release tooling and a barcode identification system, which enables machine operators to handle complete tool changeovers within 2 to 5 minutes, with full verification of the process. The tooling system is set to become a de facto standard for manufacturers seeking to accelerate small batch size production of tubular metal parts.

Unison’s laser-controlled spring-back correction bend angle system is unique and is available on any of the company’s machines for tubes from 50 mm diameter upwards. It automatically compensates for the natural tendency of metal tubes to ‘spring back’ slightly after being bent, enabling parts manufacturers to implement a ‘right-first-time’ production process.

The laser correction system can also be used for edge and feature detection to enable more stable process control of pre-laser-cut parts.

Unison is a world leader in all-electric tube bending and is widely regarded as one of the industry’s major innovators. The company’s extensive Breeze range of tube bending machines accommodates all types of tubing materials, from mild steel to exotic alloys, and includes 12 standard models covering tube diameters from 4 to 180 mm. Recent extensions to the range include a rotating head machine that can perform right- and left-hand bending in one continuous cycle, and a machine that features a fully integrated cutter to facilitate automated single-step manufacturing of volume parts.

Unison’s all-electric tube bending machines combine the highest operational efficiency with flexible, high-accuracy digital motion control, and have become the machine of choice for many companies in sectors as diverse as aerospace, marine and automotive through to furniture. Unison’s stand at Tube 2012 will provide visitors with a glimpse of the future of tube bending technology, enabling them to see at first hand the advantages that all-electric benders have over conventional hydraulic machines.