What is a manual swaging tool used for?

2nd March 2020


What is a manual swaging tool used for?


	Shop for Manual Swaging Tools


		Swaging tools are used to ‘swage’ metal tubular piping.

		A manual swaging tool decreases the diameter of a section of pipe by creating a ‘crimped’ edge of ridges and dents. For more information on how this is achieved, see: How do standard and ergonomic manual swaging tools work? and How does a compound action swaging tool work?

		Swaging is usually carried out to enable two sections of pipe to be fitted together without the use of special fittings, screws, or solder.

		This is sometimes preferred because on large projects, the cost of special fittings may be prohibitive …

		… while screwing sections of pipe together can allow rust to form by leaving tiny gaps for gas or water to escape the inside of the pipe …

		… and soldering large diameter pipe systems can also be quite expensive, and requires more skill than swaging.

		Additionally, swaging can be carried out with zero material wastage, making it extremely economical for use on precious metals such as gold and silver.

		What is tubular pipe?
		The term ‘tubular pipe’ refers to hollow cylinders of metal, plastic, glass, or ceramic, designed to hold or transport substances such as liquid and gas. Tubular pipe is supplied in a range of different sizes and lengths, and is most commonly manufactured from steel or copper. You will see tubular pipe in the home running to and from your radiators, baths, taps, and sinks.

		What is the benefit of a manual swaging tool?
		Manual swaging tools do not require batteries or connection to a mains power supply to work. Due to their light weight and small size, they can be easily transported to where they are needed.

		The types of pipe that a manual swaging tool will usually be used on are those of larger diameters such as sheet metal air flow pipes and ventilation ducts, rainwater downpipes, and chimney exhaust pipes.

		Manual swaging tools are cheap to buy, and are very effective when used to join tubular pipes with diameters ranging from 50mm-152mm (2-6in). While some industrial and electrical swaging tools are available, these cost more and are less convenient, as most industrial swaging tools are static; meaning that they can’t be transported to and from a working area.

		However, specialised industrial swaging tools will be necessary for larger tasks – so if the task at hand is a heavy duty one, you may want to look into purchasing or hiring one of these instead.

		Swaging of this type should not be used in plumbing or gas fitting, as the seal provided by swaging is not one hundred per cent leakproof; where plumbing and gas fitting is concerned, a leaking pipe can be costly, and even dangerous.