Bob Want
Bob Want is a technical tooling sales and application analyst with Tools For Bending Inc.
Telephone: 800 873-3305
"Avoiding Common Bending Problems with Common Sense"
Bob published an excellent article titled Avoiding Common Bending Problems with Common Sense in the December 2006 issue of TPJ. In the article he presses the point that proper understanding of the importance of choosing proper bend tooling cannot be understated.
Psychology of Choosing
His starting premise starts with the psychology of the choosing bending equipment. Bob has noticed that fabricators are often tempted to "go with the the gut instinct and...the flashiest solution." His point is that fabricators should resist that gut instinct and "try to use a methodical, calculated approach." The rest of the article dicusses the method that he suggests. You'll find ideas like keeping the solution as simple as possible (not any more complex or bigger and more powerful than necessary) are the constant themes through this article. That approach makes this article a gold-mine of information for engineers trying to learn the mysteries of tube fabrication.
In the BENDER BASICS section
Bob's years of experience shows through when he discusses tooling types. Are you familiar with what he calls the six bend types? If you're a tube fabrication engineer, then it is import
http://www.thefabricator.com/Bending/Bending_Article.cfm?ID=1506