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Howdy all,
I am going to make a bending pipe. I have some access to some stainless in 2" to 5" dia. I was thinking of using 3 or 4" about 12" long and ovalizing it with a press. Weld a end cap . Do you just let it exhaust out the back ? (by the back I mean the same as where the torch is ) Do you sheild the torch. Also before I pressed it flat I would polish it on the lathe. Can you think of anything else.
Thanks,
Link

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Cut to size.....Beat to fit.....Paint to match.

I didn't "ovalize" mine, but I did use two different pipes. I think a 2" to get the waist, and a 3" for everything else. No need to weld an end cap in my opinion, I just stuffed a wad of tinfoil in the end. I also started using a torch but found that a typical heat gun ($20) did the job fine. The tinfoil had gaps to let the air flow through, but still hold most the heat. I also didn't even bother making a jig, but just clamp whichever pipe down on to my bench when I am using it. I adjust the heat by pulling the heat gun farther or closer to the opening of the pipe.

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Time is a great teacher, but unfortunately it kills all its pupils - Louis Hector Berlioz

Chansen / C hansen / C. Hansen / Christian Hansen - not a handle.

Christian