Glossary of some terms

Direct Tube Automation Limited

Select the relevant text bar below for a Glossary description.

Addison / Langbow / Pedrazzoli / UNI 32 / UNI 42 / UNI 60

Leading manufacturers of tube‑bending machinery known for reliability, precision, and long service life. Common in automotive, aerospace, furniture, and general fabrication industries.  

DB32 / DB40 / TM32 / TM38 / TM50

Popular models of manual, semi‑automatic, or fully automatic tube‑bending machines used for production bending, prototyping, and small‑batch manufacturing.

Automatic Tube Bender

A machine that bends tube using programmed sequences, allowing repeatable, high‑accuracy bends with minimal operator input.

CNC Tube Bender

Computer‑controlled bending machine capable of complex multi‑plane bends, tight tolerances, and high‑volume production.

Compression Tube Bender

A bending method where the tube is compressed around a form to create the bend. Ideal for simple bends and high‑speed production.

Twin‑Head Tube Bender

A machine with two bending heads for producing symmetrical or mirrored bends in a single cycle.

Special Tube Machinery

Custom‑built equipment designed for unique or non‑standard tube‑processing applications.

Bend Die

The main tool that shapes the tube during bending. Determines bend radius and accuracy.

Clamp Die

Holds the tube firmly against the bend die to prevent slipping during the bend.

Pressure Die

Supports the tube as it moves through the bend, reducing distortion and flattening.

Wiper Die

Prevents wrinkles on the inside of the bend, especially important for tight radii or thin‑wall tube.

Mandrel

A support rod inserted into the tube to maintain shape and prevent collapse during bending.

Ball Mandrel

A support rod inserted into the tube to maintain shape and prevent collapse during bending.

Tube Bending Tools

General term for all dies, mandrels, and accessories used to achieve accurate, repeatable bends.

Tube Bending

Forming tube into curved shapes using dies, pressure, and controlled movement.

Tube Punching

Creating holes or slots in tube using mechanical or hydraulic punching systems.

Tube Notching

Cutting a shaped profile into the tube end to allow joining, welding, or assembly.

Tube Swaging

Reducing or expanding the tube diameter using force and forming dies.

Tube End Forming

Shaping the tube end (flare, bead, reduce, expand) for connection, sealing, or assembly.

Pipe Bending

Similar to tube bending but typically applied to thicker‑wall pipe used in structural or fluid‑handling applications.

Breakdowns

Unexpected machine failures requiring urgent diagnosis and repair.

Repairs

Mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical work to restore machinery to full working condition.

Replacement Controls

Upgrading old or obsolete control systems with modern, reliable CNC or PLC‑based units to improve performance and extend machine life.

Services

General support including maintenance, calibration, installation, commissioning, and operator training.