At OPM, our vertically integrated platform enables us to manufacture custom alloys and steels to OEM specifications. From sourcing raw materials to delivering finished machine parts and assemblies, our team can handle it all.
One of our core service offerings is tube rolling or tube bending. This manufacturing process enables us to produce long, hollow tubular components that can be used as-is or as part of a larger assembly. While its gradual nature initially resulted in long operations, advancements in its technology over the years have led to faster production speeds.
What Is Tube Rolling?
As suggested by its name, tube rolling is a manufacturing process used to roll material into tubes and other tubular components. It involves first wrapping the material around a mold and then heat curing it to hold the shape. Afterward, the mold is removed, leaving behind a molded hollow component. Other parts and products made using tube rolling techniques include angles, beams, channels, pipes, and rods.
After the desired components are rolled, they may be subjected to various finishing treatments to ensure they are ready for use. These processes include:
- Bending
- Cutting
- Welding
- Fastening
- Riveting
- Powder coating
At OPM, many of our stainless tubes (for example, 316L, 13Cr, and A825) are formed by a process called cold drawing, which strengthens the tube to be suitable for various performance critical applications. This process involves a round billet that is hot pierced and then cold drawn. For example, tubes formed from our A825 Inconel all must pass the ESR process. Once that is complete, it is forged, hot pierced, cold drawn, heat treated, then finally pickled and passivated. The alloy steel tubes used by OPM (e.g., 4140 materials) are the only steel tubes which are hot rolled.
Advantages of Tube Rolling
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Tube rolling offers a number of advantages that make it one of the most popular tube forming processes. For example:
- It is versatile. Tube rolling can be used to make tubular components with various cross-sections (e.g., circular, oval, rectangular, square, conical, etc.) from a wide range of materials (e.g., aluminum, brass, stainless steel, or steel). These components can then be used in applications across a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, manufacturing, and recreation equipment.
- It is consistent. The tube rolling process can produce components with a high degree of precision, resulting in excellent part-to-part consistency.
- It is fast. Newer tube rolling technology produces components at faster rates, enabling manufacturers to achieve higher production volumes in the same amount of time.
- It is affordable. Tube rolling utilizes mandrels that are affordable and durable, which translates to lower tooling costs.
Partner With OPM for Your Tube Rolling Needs
Looking for a manufacturer you can trust to meet your tube rolling needs? OPM Manufacturing is the ideal partner! We have what it takes to deliver solutions for any point of the supply chain, whether you need individual machined parts or complex assemblies.
By working with us, you benefit from our:
- Custom material capabilities. We can handle projects that require custom alloys and steels.
- Engineering and logistic support services. Our engineering team can recommend design changes and/or materials to improve manufacturability or reduce cost.
- Commitment to traceability. All of our products are individually serialized to ensure 100% material and staff traceability. You can trace any product back to the staff that worked on it at each station, from incoming inventory processing to product shipping.
To learn more about our products and services or partner with us, contact us today. Our team is committed to providing you with the optimal tube rolling services to ensure you receive the highest quality products.