Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender 8/10/12 mm Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender. This tool is designed for bending soft copper tubes with diameters of 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm. Please read this manual thoroughly before operation and retain it for future reference.

The Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender is constructed from hardened and tempered carbon steel, featuring double-leaf captive springs and PVC dipped handles for comfortable and secure grip. It is engineered to meet Draper's quality standards, ensuring reliable performance for various pipe bending tasks.

2. Safety Information

Always observe basic safety precautions when using hand tools to reduce the risk of injury.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses and gloves, to protect against potential hazards.
• Ensure the workpiece is secure before attempting to bend. Unsecured pipes can slip, causing injury or damage.
• Do not exceed the tool's capacity. This bender is designed for 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm soft copper tubes only. Attempting to bend harder materials or larger diameters may damage the tool and cause injury.
• Keep hands and fingers clear of moving parts during operation to prevent pinching.
• Inspect the tool before each use for any signs of damage or wear. Do not use a damaged tool.
• Store the tool safely when not in use, away from children and in a dry environment.

3. Product Overview

The Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender consists of a main bending mechanism with integrated dies for different pipe sizes and two handles for leverage.

Figure 1: Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender. This image shows the complete tool, highlighting the bending mechanism with its various pipe size grooves and the two handles with black PVC grips.

Key components include:

• Bending Dies: Integrated grooves for 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm pipe diameters.
• Handles: Two steel handles with PVC grips for leverage and comfort.
• Pivot Mechanism: Allows the handles to move, applying force to bend the pipe.

4. Setup

Before beginning any bending operation, ensure your workspace is clear and well-lit.

1. Select the Correct Die: Identify the groove on the bending mechanism that matches the diameter of your copper pipe (8mm, 10mm, or 12mm).
2. Prepare the Pipe: Ensure the copper pipe is clean and free from burrs. For optimal results, use soft (annealed) copper tubing.
3. Lubricate (Optional but Recommended): For smoother bends and to prevent the pipe from tearing, especially at larger angles, apply a small amount of lubricant (e.g., grease) to the bending groove where the pipe will sit.

5. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve accurate bends with your Draper Mini Pipe Bender:

1. Position the Pipe: Open the bender handles and carefully place the copper pipe into the selected bending groove. Ensure the pipe is seated firmly and correctly within the groove. The bending point on the pipe should align with the center of the bending die.
2. Initiate the Bend: Slowly and steadily bring the handles together. Apply even pressure to both handles. Avoid sudden jerking movements, as this can deform the pipe or damage the tool.
3. Monitor the Bend: Continuously observe the pipe as it bends. The tool allows for bends up to 180 degrees. For precise angles, you may need to perform the bend in stages, checking the angle periodically.
4. Complete the Bend: Once the desired angle is achieved, release the pressure on the handles and carefully remove the bent pipe from the tool.
5. Inspect the Bend: Check the bent section of the pipe for any signs of kinking, flattening, or tearing. A smooth, uniform bend indicates proper technique.

Tip: Practice on scrap pieces of pipe to familiarize yourself with the tool's operation and to achieve consistent, high-quality bends.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance will prolong the life of your Draper Mini Pipe Bender and ensure its continued performance.

• Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the tool with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dust, debris, or lubricant residue.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a light machine oil or grease to the pivot points and bending grooves to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
• Inspection: Regularly check the tool for any signs of wear, damage, or loose components. Pay close attention to the bending dies and handles.
• Storage: Store the pipe bender in a dry, clean environment, protected from moisture and extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues during operation, consider the following common problems and solutions:

• Pipe Kinking or Flattening:
  • Ensure you are using soft (annealed) copper pipe. Harder materials are more prone to kinking.
  • Verify the pipe is correctly seated in the appropriate size groove.
  • Apply steady, even pressure. Avoid bending too quickly or with uneven force.
  • Consider lubricating the bending groove before bending.
• Difficulty Bending:
  • Ensure the pipe is soft copper.
  • Check if the pivot points are adequately lubricated.
  • For larger diameter pipes (e.g., 12mm), more force will be required. Ensure a stable stance and firm grip.
• Tool Damage (e.g., handle breakage):
  • This typically occurs when attempting to bend materials beyond the tool's specified capacity or using excessive force on hard materials.
  • Do not use a damaged tool. Contact Draper customer support for assistance.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty Information

This Draper product comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding coverage, duration, and claims, please refer to the official Draper warranty documentation or visit the manufacturer's website. The provided information states a lifetime warranty for parts and labor.

10. Support

For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding your Draper 72376 Mini Pipe Bender, please contact Draper Tools directly through their official website or customer service channels. Always provide the model number (72376) when seeking support.