One of the great things about tubes is you can use an array of different end forming techniques to get the finish you need. For example, you could use tube swaging to open the tube out so it can slide on to different fittings or other pipes. Another option is tube flaring to get a funnel shape opening. This can help you to create a strong mechanical joint. In addition, there is beading to create a lip at the end of the tube. This is great if the tube will connect to a hose.

At Multiform Tubes we work hard to provide the very best end forming solutions. Our team have a wealth of experience and access to the best equipment. As a leader in our field, we get a lot of questions about the difference between swaging and flaring. We will have a quick look at both of them here so you can see the difference.

What is tube swaging?

The swaging technique uses a tapered or hydraulic die to open the end of a tube. Both are cold forming techniques and don’t result in the loss of any material. You can use either technique on various types of tubing, however you need to consider the hardness and wall thickness.

What is flaring?

Flaring is another way to open the end of a tube. This is also a cold forming technique that does not result in the loss of material. Here you usually insert a flared cone into the end of the tube. Pressure forces it in and expands the diameter. You can only expand the tube as wide as the widest part of the cone.

The difference

Both processes have a lot of similarities. The big difference is that flaring is shallower and a different shape. It creates a funnel at the end of the tube. Swaging on the other hand is deeper and you can expand the diameter further along the tube to create a flute shape.

Another difference is that flaring is most commonly used for softer metals like copper and aluminium. It is possible to flare tubing of harder metals but it may be necessary to use annealing first to make the end of the tube more malleable. Swaging on the other hand is a good option for an array of hard and soft metals.

With both processes it is important to have the right tooling. You need to ensure the cone or die will be able to expand the tube as much as you need to.

Talk to us about tube swaging

If you need to adapt tubing for a project, Multiform Tubes Ltd can help you. We provide accurate services and work with a wide array of different types of metal tube. Contact us today to learn more or arrange a service.