Induction Bending and Fabrication: Precision, Efficiency, and Applications in Energy Projects
For critical oil, gas, and energy transition projects, the ability to manufacture precision bends and prefabricated assemblies directly affects safety, efficiency, and cost. Traditional fittings and multiple elbows introduce welds, delays, and potential weak points. Proclad’s computer-controlled induction bending and fabrication services deliver consistent quality and reliability — backed by integrated heat treatment and stringent inspection processes.
This article explains how Proclad’s induction bending technology works, why automated process control and heat treatment are critical, and how prefabricated assemblies enhance project delivery.
Table of Contents
What Is Induction Bending?
Computer-Controlled Process
Advantages Over Cold Bending
The Role of Heat Treatment
Pre-Bend Heating
Post-Bend Heat Treatment
Fabrication and Prefabricated Assemblies
Spools, Headers, and Manifolds
Integration With Cladding and Welding
Technical Considerations
Materials and Sizes
Tolerances: Wall Thinning and Ovality
Inspection and Qualification
Applications Across Energy Sectors
Why Choose Proclad for Induction Bending?
Conclusion – Key Takeaways
References
What Is Induction Bending?
Induction bending uses a controlled electromagnetic coil to heat a narrow circumferential band of pipe (typically 30–60 mm wide) to 850–1100 °C. The heated section is bent around a fixed radius while water or air quenching rapidly stabilises the geometry.
Every bend is produced with real-time process control and full digital traceability. This ensures repeatability, consistency, and compliance with the most demanding project specifications — reducing variability compared to manual or semi-automated bending.
Heat treatment is a critical step in induction bending, restoring metallurgical integrity after the bending process.
Pre-Bend Heating
Certain materials, such as duplex and super duplex stainless steels, require pre-bend heat treatment to ensure an even ferrite-austenite balance before bending. Controlled pre-heating prevents cracking and ensures structural integrity throughout the process.
Post-Bend Heat Treatment
After bending, post-bend heat treatment (PWHT or solution annealing) is tailored to the alloy:
Carbon steels: Normalising or quenching and tempering restores toughness.
Nickel alloys: Stress relief maintains strength and ductility.
By performing heat treatment in-house, Proclad removes reliance on external subcontractors — ensuring faster delivery and tighter quality control.
Proclad In-House Hest Treatment
Fabrication and Prefabricated Assemblies
Spools, Headers, and Manifolds
Induction bends are integrated into prefabricated spools, risers, and manifolds at Proclad’s facilities. This approach delivers modules to site ready for installation, reducing offshore welding time and associated risks.
Integration With Cladding and Welding
Proclad combines induction bending with other in-house services:
CRA weld overlay cladding for corrosion resistance.
Mechanically lined sections for cost-efficient CRA coverage.
Precision fabrication and welding for turnkey delivery of assemblies.
Technical Considerations
Materials and Sizes
Proclad’s machine accommodates:
Pipe sizes: 2" to 48" diameter.
Wall thickness: up to 90 mm (depending on grade).
Materials: Carbon steels (API 5L X52–X80), stainless steels (304L, 316L, duplex, super duplex), and nickel alloys (Inconel 625, 825).
Tolerances: Wall Thinning and Ovality
Wall thinning: ≤ 12% of nominal wall thickness.
Ovality: ≤ 5% in subsea service (per DNV-ST-F101).
Fatigue/collapse testing for subsea risers in line with DNV/API requirements.
Applications Across Energy Sectors
Subsea pipelines and risers: Smooth bends reduce turbulence and improve fatigue life.
Onshore pipelines: Used in compact refinery layouts, reducing weld count by 40% compared to elbows.
Energy transition: Induction bends qualified for CO₂ pipelines in CCUS and under testing for hydrogen embrittlement resistance.
Why Choose Proclad for Induction Bending?
Computer-controlled technology: Guaranteed repeatability and digital process records.
In-house heat treatment: Full control over pre- and post-bend PWHT.
Integrated fabrication: Prefabricated spools and clad assemblies delivered ready-to-install.
Global compliance: Bends and assemblies qualified to API, ASME, and DNV standards.
Conclusion – Key Takeaways
Induction bending is a precise, repeatable process ideal for subsea, onshore, and transition energy projects.
Proclad’s computer-controlled machinery ensures consistency and full traceability.
In-house heat treatment before and after bending restores material integrity and ensures compliance.
By combining induction bending with fabrication and cladding, Proclad delivers complete, prefabricated assemblies that reduce project risk and accelerate delivery.
