BLM Group developed a fully integrated mandrel bending process running from coil for the manufacture of copper hvac components, for automotive or residential applications requiring high quality bends on small diameter tubes. The solution employs three different metal tubes processing technologies: the 3-Runner system feeds the tube from a coil straightens it, shapes one end, cuts it to length and automatically feeds it to the tube bender loader.
Smart, a multi-radius, right hand/left hand tube bending machine mandrel, bends the part and automatically unloads it onto a conveyor belt, which feeds the E-Shape. This machine finally shapes the opposite end if the tube. The three machines work in parallel, with some operations carried out in the background, increasing the efficiency in terms of cycle times and part cost. Starting from a coil, the integrated process simplifies logistics by eliminating all intermediate steps, the need for secondary operations and work in process inventory, optimizing material utilization, and ensuring maximum repeatability and production quality.