New Mexico Pipe Fitter Journeyman (JPF) Practice Exam

What is the bending gain for 1/2 inch tube bent at a 90-degree angle?

1. 0.54 inch

2. 0.64 inch

3. 0.74 inch

4. 0.84 inch

The correct answer is: 0.64 inch

The bending gain for a tube refers to how much the length of the tube effectively shortens when it is bent. For a 1/2 inch tube bent at a 90-degree angle, the bending gain is specifically determined by the dimensions and properties of the tube as well as the angle of the bend. When a tube is bent, the outer part of the bend stretches while the inner part compresses, resulting in a characteristic change in the length of the tube. The formula used to calculate the bending gain typically takes into account the radius of the bend and the material's characteristics. In the case of a 1/2 inch tube and specifically at a 90-degree angle, the bending gain has been established through industry standards and practice as approximately 0.64 inches. This value reflects the average physical properties and bending behavior of a 1/2 inch tube in standard applications. Understanding the bending gain is essential for pipe fitters and helps ensure that when cutting and fitting pieces of piping, they account for the length reduction that occurs when bends are introduced. This helps in making precise cuts and fitting installations that are both safe and efficient.