Bending machines come in a variety of types for a variety of uses — you can buy metal bending machines, wire bending machines, steel bending machines and even square bending machines for getting the perfect right angle. If your company uses bent metal and is either outsourcing or hand bending, consider investing in a metal bending machine.

Purchasing a machine for bending metal can increase your production level and heighten the quality of your work by providing consistent results. There are many bending machine options in a variety of price ranges. Take the time to find the best bending machine for you, compare prices, warranties and other bending machine information.

1. Consider features of bending machines to find the best one for your business needs.

2. Compare bending machine manufacturers and dealers for the best value.

3. Prepare your company and employees with training to for the bending machine.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the best bending machine for your business based on the machine's features

Consider the size of the metal tubing you bend or will be bending the most to determine the size machine to buy. The machine should be first considered based on the largest size of metal tubing you will 3/4' up to 4' are available with most tube bending companies. Also consider plate bending rolls or rebar benders. You may be able to find one machine that is capable of handling all sizes of metal you need to bend.

I recommend: Eagle Bending Machines offers a variety of tube bending machines and bending machine counterparts, such as plating rollers. They offer leasing options and have a detailed spec sheet to help you decide which metal bending machine is right for you. All Products.com offers an extensive listing of metal bending machine manufacturers.

Compare bending machine manufacturing companies

Pipe bending machines are manufactured by a whole host of companies. Once you know the features you want in a machine, you can compare prices and other amenities, such as warranties and return policies.

I recommend: E.G. Heller's Son Inc. offers a large variety of bending and pressing machines, as well as replacement parts and add-on products, like the Heller Belt Grinder. Nextag provides a side-by-side comparison of metal bending products, their features and instant price comparisons, too.

Prepare your company for the bending machine

Metal bending machines are expensive and should be protected. This includes adding it to your business insurance policy, properly training your employees on how to use the bending machine and having a secure facility.

I recommend: State Farm Insurance offers a comprehensive business insurance plan which includes limited coverage for your business equipment. Nationwide offers an even more extensive business equipment insurance that includes breakdown insurance, developed to keep your business running during an equipment breakdown or failure.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Metal bending machines are usually large and need plenty of room to work around. Make sure it has its own space in your shop or warehouse.