Design and Development of Pneumatic Based PVC Pipe Bending Machine

Abstract

As the name suggests, this thesis is about the design and development of a machine that is used for the bending of PVC pipes. This machine is used to bend a 7-inch length of PVC pipe into a curved shape and to perform socketing operation at both ends of a PVC pipe for joining purposes. Basically, we want to make an elbow because it has a wide range of applications, especially in electrical conduits. Elbows are used in pipe fittings as a joint to redirect the straight pipe at an angle of 90 degrees. The size of the machine is very convenient for portable work. The machine is available worldwide but is very expensive. We wanted to manufacture a customized version for our local market that could be serviced locally at a minimum cost. The aim of this thesis was to develop a PVC pipe bending machine that is used to bend PVC pipes with a diameter up to 0.75 inch and a wall thickness up to 1.4 mm. The machine also performs socketing operation at both ends of a PVC pipe. This is not a novel idea but a transfer of technology to Pakistan using reverse engineering. Currently, there is no company in Pakistan that can work on these moderately advanced technologies with the aim of indigenization and local production. The developed machine has consistent superior quality, a pipe heating system, socket pins, sliding guides, pneumatic cylinders, a die, linear bearings, plates, a distribution panel, and a simple user interface. These small components were integrated to make a fully functioning, stand-alone, cost-effective PVC pipe bending machine. The machine was designed with the objective that it should be easy to operate by a common, unskilled operator. During the production of this machine, parts and sub-assemblies were outsourced for production. It is important to point out that there was no need to build a new plant or assembly line for the manufacturing of this machine, as it was made at various mechanical fabrication shops that had good fabrication facilities. The critical part of this development lies in system integration. We designed and developed a customized solution in the form of a PVC pipe bending machine that is not only beneficial for our local industry but also has potential for export to other countries. This selection was based on extensive interaction, during which we realized that there was a strong need for this in our local market. Moreover, this project strengthened industry-university linkages and developed a trend of cooperation. This cooperation is the need of the hour. There are very few companies in Pakistan that have this technology, but most of the small players do not have access to it. This locally developed machine can be repaired in Pakistan with ease and will be tailored and sized for our local market's needs. The use of this machine will create jobs and reduce unemployment in the country.