Tube end working methods

Tube end forming contains all methods suitable to shape a tube end according to a defined geometry. Corresponding
to the main direction of the forming tool's movement there are three basic shaping methods called axial forming, radial
forming or tumble forming.

Radial tube end forming

When radial forming is applied the tube end is shaped by spreading or
retraction segments. The forming tool is tapered over its full length and
consists of singular segments, similar to a ring of pizza with a hole in the
middle. Depending on the forming task and the desired final contour of
the work piece the customer has to use an inner tool, an outer tool or a
combination of both tools.

By means of pushing an arbor into the thick of the tool's segments (resp.
putting on a wedge-shaped outer ring) the singular segemts are pushed
apart (compressed). In this way radial force is performed and shapes
the tube end, which can be held manually or by a simple gripping device
during the forming process.