Maya Ellison
Bending plastic conduit pipe is a skill that electricians often need, especially when working with PVC pipes for electrical conduit or irrigation piping. While PVC pipes are known for their rigidity and strength, there are several methods to bend them, ranging from using a hairdryer to applying external heat sources like a heat gun or torch. Some techniques involve filling the pipe with sand or inserting a spring to prevent kinking, while others use specialised tools like the Pipe Viper or Bender's Friend for cold or hot bends. Safety precautions are essential when dealing with PVC and heat due to the production of harmful vapours and fumes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required tools | Hairdryer, heat gun, hand propane torch, hotbox, heat wrap, Bender's Friend, Pipe Viper |
| Safety equipment | Gas mask, safety glasses, heat-proof gloves, oven mitts, wet towel, wet rags, water spray bottle |
| Preparation | Mark the desired bend with tape or marker, cap the ends of the pipe |
| Bending technique | Heat the desired location, apply pressure to bend, use a spring or fill with sand to prevent kinking, cool with water |
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What You'll Learn
Using a hairdryer
Bending a plastic conduit pipe with a hairdryer is a simple and inexpensive way to achieve smooth corners and gradual curves. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
First, mark the spot on the pipe where you want to create the bend. You can use a marker pen to indicate the centre of the bend and then mark an additional 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) on both sides of this centre point. This area will be your "heat zone", which will be targeted for heating. It is important to ensure that the planned bends are at least 3-5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) away from any joints for optimal results.
Next, prepare your pipe for heating. Some sources suggest filling the pipe with sand up to 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) above the bend mark to help maintain its shape and prevent kinks during the bending process. Blocking the end of the pipe with tape or a pipe cap can prevent the sand from spilling out. Alternatively, you can insert a specialised bending spring that is slightly smaller than the pipe's diameter.
Now, it's time to apply heat to the pipe. Set your hairdryer to the highest setting and position it 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) away from the pipe. Slowly move the hairdryer back and forth along the planned bend, gradually rotating the pipe simultaneously. The duration of heating depends on the pipe's size and thickness. Heat the pipe until it becomes slightly bendy due to gravity. Keep in mind that a hairdryer may take a longer time to heat the pipe adequately compared to a heat gun. It is recommended to work in a well-ventilated area or outdoors while wearing a protective mask, as PVC can release toxic chemicals when heated.
Once the pipe is sufficiently heated, it's ready to be bent. Wear heat-proof gloves and gently bend the pipe to your desired shape, reheating as necessary. For a more precise and uniform bend, you can shape the pipe around a metal can or any other sturdy object. Remember to take your time and avoid over-bending, as it can be challenging to straighten the pipe again without causing kinks.
Finally, allow the pipe to cool down. Once cooled, the pipe will retain its new shape. However, it's important to note that heating weakens the pipe's walls, reducing its ability to withstand pressure.
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Filling the pipe with sand
To fill the pipe with sand, start by pouring sand into the pipe until it is an inch or two past the point where you want the bend to be. The amount of sand you will need depends on the length of the pipe and the desired bend. Next, seal one end of the pipe with a cork or tape to prevent the sand from spilling out. Make sure the seal is secure so that the sand doesn't leak out when you start bending the pipe.
Mark the desired bending point with a marker or tape. This will guide you in applying heat and pressure to the correct area. It is important to note that you should not use an open flame on the pipe as it can be dangerous. Instead, use a hairdryer to heat the marked area. Place the pipe on a supporting structure to keep it stable during the bending process, ensuring that the bending point is aligned with the middle of the object.
With the hairdryer on, gently apply pressure to the pipe in the direction you want it to bend. Go slowly and carefully to avoid any unwanted creases or kinks. Continue applying heat and pressure until you achieve the desired angle. Once you're satisfied with the bend, turn off the hairdryer and allow the pipe to cool down completely before removing the cork or tape and emptying the sand.
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$19.99
Using a heat gun
Bending plastic conduit pipe with a heat gun is a straightforward process, but it requires caution and the right safety equipment. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is an amorphous polymer, which means it becomes soft when heated and can be reshaped. This thermoplastic property of PVC is what makes it possible to bend it with a heat gun.
First, plan the shape you want the conduit to take. Mark the spots on the PVC where you want it to bend. It is recommended to practice on a scrap piece or two before bending the actual conduit. When you are ready, put on safety glasses and a gas mask, and wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from the hot pipe.
Hold the heat gun at least a few inches away from the PVC and turn it on, starting on the highest setting. Rotate the conduit as you heat it to ensure that all sides are heated evenly. You can place a piece of duct work underneath the PVC to help circulate the heat. Once the PVC has softened and become pliable, carefully bend it to the desired angle.
To set the shape, immediately run a wet microfiber cloth across the bend or spray it with cold water. This will cool the PVC and freeze it in the desired position. Be aware that overheated PVC can burn and release harmful fumes, so always work in a well-ventilated area.
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Using a heat blanket
Bending plastic conduit pipes with a heat blanket is a common method, especially for electricians working outside. It is a compact option, but it has its drawbacks. Firstly, it is slower than a hot box, and it is not effective in cold weather. It is also worth noting that heat blankets only work on straight sections of pipe.
To use a heat blanket, wrap it around the PVC pipe and heat the conduit until it is pliable. Then, bend the pipe to the desired angle. It is important to be cautious when dealing with PVC and heat, as PVC can produce harmful vapours and fumes, such as carbon monoxide and chlorinated furans, when heated. Therefore, it is recommended to wear a gas mask, safety glasses, and heat-proof gloves or oven mitts when bending PVC pipes. Additionally, bending should be done in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors.
To get consistent offsets, you can make a simple jig using a piece of plywood and some nails. It is also important to ensure that the conduit is heated enough to avoid kinking. If the bend angle is not quite right, you can reheat the pipe and start the process over, but be wary of repeating this too much as the PVC can become too brittle over time.
Overall, while heat blankets may be a convenient option for bending plastic conduit pipes, they may not be as effective as other methods, especially in cold weather.
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Using a Pipe Viper
The Pipe Viper is a highly innovative tool that has revolutionised the way PVC pipes are bent. It is a uniquely engineered, pre-plated carbon steel spring that allows users to easily bend PVC or PVC conduits while maintaining the interior integrity of the pipe. The Pipe Viper is lightweight, anti-corrosive, and designed to bend in any direction. It is a highly efficient tool that can save time and material costs.
The Pipe Viper is versatile and cost-effective, and it comes in sizes ranging from 1/2" to 4" PVC conduit. It allows users to cold-bend the PVC conduit without the need for any heat tools, which can be unsafe and release harmful toxins. With the Pipe Viper, there is no need for tees, elbows, or couplings, and no more gluing or cutting, which often results in excess PVC waste.
To use the Pipe Viper, simply slide the spring into the PVC pipe and bend it across your knee. The PVC conduit requires slight over-bending, which will allow it to "pop back" to its original shape once the bending pressure is released. This method is much safer than using an open flame or heat gun, which can release harmful fumes and vapours.
The Pipe Viper is an indispensable tool for a wide range of trades, including electricians, plumbers, data-com techs, alarm system techs, landscape architects, engineers, swimming pool installers, and spa manufacturers. It is a game-changer for anyone working with PVC conduits, providing ease of use, efficiency, and cost savings.
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Frequently asked questions
When applying heat to a plastic conduit pipe, it is important to wear a gas mask and safety glasses as PVC can produce harmful vapors and fumes such as carbon monoxide and chlorinated furans. It is also recommended to wear heat-proof gloves and to bend the pipe in a well-ventilated area.
There are several tools that can be used to bend a plastic conduit pipe. A hairdryer is a safer option as it does not expose the pipe to a naked flame. Heat guns, torches, and heat wraps can also be used. For pipes under 2 inches, a hand propane torch or heat gun will work, but for larger pipes, a larger weed burner or "pear burner" wand-style torch is recommended.
To avoid kinks in the pipe, you can insert a spring into the pipe at the point you want to make the bend. You can also fill up the pipe with sand up to about an inch or two past the point you want to bend and then plug one end with cork or tape.
The best method for bending a plastic conduit pipe depends on the size of the pipe and the type of bend needed. For pipes under 2 inches, using a heat gun or torch to heat the desired location until the pipe becomes malleable is a common technique. For pipes larger than 2 inches, a hotbox or heat wrap can be used. If you want to avoid using heat, the Pipe Viper by Rack-A-Tiers allows you to cold bend pipes up to 4 inches in diameter.
