The bending radius of corrugated pipes is a critical parameter in their design and application, directly influencing performance and longevity. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the key factors in designing the bending radius, helping you make informed decisions for selecting and utilizing corrugated pipes.

1. Minimum Bending Radius

Definition: The minimum bending radius is the smallest radius a corrugated pipe can bend without sustaining damage.
Design Requirements: Generally, the minimum bending radius should be at least twice the pipe’s outer diameter to prevent cracks or fractures.

2. Material and Wall Thickness

• Wall Thickness to Inner Diameter Ratio: A proper ratio, typically between 0.0006 and 0.05, must be maintained. Excessive wall thickness reduces flexibility, while insufficient thickness compromises pressure resistance.

• Multi-Layer Structure Design: For high-pressure applications, multi-layer designs are recommended. The total wall thickness-to-inner diameter ratio should be controlled below 0.051 to minimize stress.

3. Corrugation Structure Design

• Corrugation Pitch and Shape: The pitch is proportional to wall thickness and decreases with increasing inner diameter. Corrugation shapes, such as U-type or C-type, significantly affect stiffness and pressure capacity. Choose based on specific needs.

4. Operating Environment

• Temperature and Pressure: High-temperature or high-pressure environments require larger bending radii to prevent material fatigue. At normal temperatures, pipes should withstand bending with a radius at least twice their outer diameter without damage.

5. Performance Testing

• Durability Testing: High-quality corrugated pipes undergo long-term heat resistance and impact testing. For example, even after over 3,000 hours in hot air, they must remain resistant to brittleness and chalking.

Key Design Considerations

When applying corrugated pipes, consider the following:

• Minimum bending radius

• Appropriate material and wall thickness

• Corrugation structure and shape

• Operating temperature and pressure

Optimizing these factors can significantly enhance the safety and reliability of corrugated pipes in practical use.

Choose Donghao Corrugated Pipes for Safety and Performance

Tianjin Donghao Flexible Hose Co., Ltd. specializes in developing and manufacturing stainless steel corrugated pipes with 26 years of industry experience. Donghao’s products strictly adhere to international standards and are widely used in natural gas, chemical, and construction sectors, delivering outstanding performance under extreme conditions.

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