Custom PC - UK (2021-09)

HOW TO CUT AND BEND TUBING
Every type of tubing can be cut incorrectly,
which can potentially cause leaks, so knowing
how to do this basic task is vital. With flexible
tubing, use a tube cutter. These act like
scissors, but support the tubing on both sides,
ensuring you get a straight cut. Don’t use a
knife or standard scissors for this job, as it can
be difficult to get the edges straight.
To cut metal tubing, you need, funnily
enough, a metal tube cutter, which is available
from most stores that sell plumbing supplies.
These cut into the metal gradually while you
twist the tube. The benefit here is that it creates
minimal mess compared with a saw, but if the
tubing is particularly thick, it can be hard on
your hands.
Acrylic tubing needs to be cut with a fine
saw blade and very gentle pressure, as it’s

brittle and breaks easily. PETG tubing is much

softer and can be cut with a metal tube cutting

tool, gradually cutting into it. With all types of

rigid tubing, you need to use a tube reamer

afterwards. This grinds the inner and out

edges, removing any sharp fragments from

cutting, and also bevels the edges so they pass

more easily through the O-rings in the fittings.

Bending acrylic and PETG tubing is relatively

easy, but you’ll need a few tools in order to

do it. The trick is to line up the bends with

your components, while avoiding air bubbles

and kinks. Start by cutting the tube to a

manageable length, then insert it into a fitting.

To prevent the tubing from kinking when

you’re bending it, you’ll need to use a tube

insert. This should be inserted while coated

with lubricant, such as washing up liquid.

The reason for this is that, once you’ve bent

the tubing, you’ll need to remove it and the

friction means it can otherwise see it get stuck.

Once you’ve worked out where to make the

first bend, use a heat gun to warm the tubing

an inch from either side of the bend point.

Move the gun back and forth until the tubing

becomes pliable.

You now need to use a tube bender. The

insert will take care of the tube’s shape, but

you need to bend the tube to the correct angle.

You can use any smooth rounded object as a

tube bender, but beware of bending too tightly,

or you might get wrinkles. Try to bend on a flat

surface and, if possible, use a dedicated tube

bending kit as it will make your life much easier.

Metal tube cutters cut into the metal gradually while you twist the tube

A dedicated tube bending kit will make your life much

easier when it comes to bending acrylic or PETG tubing

Use a tube insert to prevent the tubing

from kinking when you’re bending it

With all types of rigid tubing, you need

to use a tube reamer afterwards