This force was the equivalent of 400kg (882lbs), which is the same as a male coastal grizzly bear. The same amount of force was used in every experiment to test each individual tube profile. A downward force (called a normal force, as it is perpendicular to the surface) was then applied to the midpoint of the tube length over a contact area of 50mm. A length of stainless steel tube, 1 metre long, was securely held in place at each end. The test was performed identically for each of the stainless steel 316L tube profiles. This experiment would enable us to see whether the individual profile shapes had any bearing on the strength and integrity of the tubes when compared to the standard round tube. A standard stainless steel round tube, which is how all of our tube profile products begin, was used as a control sample. In this particular test, we are looking at the resistance to bending for each of our tube profiles Flat-sided Oval Tube, Oval Tube, Radius Square Tube, Twisted Square Tube and D-shaped Tube. We are continuously developing new tube products to add to our extensive standard range, and as such we conduct a variety of tests. This comprehensive process is undertaken for each size of each profile shape. Every tube profile that we manufacture goes through an intensive and extensive development phase to ensure the integrity of each of our finished tubes. Proving how shaped tubing offers increased strength performanceĪs a leading stainless steel tube manufacturer, it is important for us to stand by the quality of all the tube profiles that we supply and the tube deflection test is one way we ensure that you get the best product – every time.

Round or square tube bending radius