Greenlee Conduit Bending Techniques

Electrical Benders

• This type of bender is electrically operated and is capable of bending a variety of ridged and soft metal pipes. It is typically used when an electrician has a significant amount of installing and bending of conduit to do. This tool typically has several conduit-bending grooves to accommodate the various diameters of pipe available. Some units are programmable to assure each bend is a precise angle and can be repeated infinitely. These devices can be rather large and require a base with wheels to move around the work area.

Mechanical Benders

• Mechanical benders are hand-operated and are typically used to bend EMT pipe. This type of pipe is a thin-walled metal conduit that is easily bent. The conduit is installed in the bender's groove, then the electrician presses on the handle until the pipe is the correct angle. This style of bender is commonly used for smaller projects because of its portability.

Hydraulic Benders

• Hydraulic benders are strong enough to bend ridged steel conduit. They can be powered via an electrical pump or a hand-operated pump depending on the model. They are relatively portable and designed to make bends up to 90 degrees. They are typically used on smaller jobs because of the time consumed making each bend.

PVC Benders

• PVC conduit requires its own specialized benders to change its direction. An electric hot box is used to warm the PVC pipe until it is pliable. The pipe is laid inside the box until it is soft. It is then transferred to a PVC preset form and allowed to cool. Once cooled, the PVC conduit holds the shape of the form and can be installed on the wall or under the concrete floor. PVC conduit is popular because it is inexpensive, easy to install and water tight.