Sparky Channel: Four-Point Saddle Bend Tutorial

Introduction

• Presenter: Bill from Sparky Channel
• Topic: How to make a four-point saddle bend
• Purpose: To demonstrate how to bend conduit to accommodate obstacles

Definition

• Four-Point Saddle Bend: A conduit bend with four distinct points designed to go over an obstruction.

Tools and Resources

• Tape Measure:
  • Klein Tools Tape Measure: Features conduit bending multipliers and shrinkage information.
  • Conduit Bending Multipliers: Numbers that help calculate the spacing and shrinkage of bends.
• Digital Level: Klein digital level used for accurate bending.

Basic Concepts

• Shrinkage: Conduit becomes shorter due to bending. For example, a 72-inch conduit might shrink to 70.5 inches after bending.
  • Shrinkage Calculation: 1/4 inch per inch of rise (e.g., 3 inches of rise results in 3/4 inch shrinkage).
• Multiplier: For 30-degree bends, the multiplier is 2.0 (e.g., a 3-inch rise requires a 6-inch spacing between bends).

Procedure

1. Measure Distance to Obstruction:
   • Example given: 33 1/8 inches plus 3/4 inch shrinkage = 33 7/8 inches.
2. Marking the Pipe:
   • Mark distances for bends according to calculated multipliers and shrinkage.
3. Bending Process:
   • Two bends on the ground, two in the air—all at 30-degree angles.
   • Ensure the "hook" of the bending tool points toward the center of the bend.
4. Using Digital Level:
   • Check accuracy of bends and adjust for spring back (about 2 degrees).

Tips

• Avoiding Dog Legs: Ensure accurate sighting along the bend line.
• Tool Preferences:
  • Ideal aluminum bender has arrows on both sides, unlike Klein.

Finishing Up

• Check Alignment: Ensure obstruction is centered within the saddle bend.
• Clean Marks: Use pencil for temporary marks, so they can be cleaned easily.
• Choosing Angles:
  • 30-degree bends are practical and commonly used.
  • 22.5-degree bends take more space; 45-degree bends are tighter but harder for wire running.

Product Recommendations

• Links for Klein and Ideal tools, including tape measures, digital levels, conduit benders, hard hats, and kneeling pads are mentioned.

Conclusion

• The video aims to help viewers understand and execute a four-point saddle bend.
• Emphasizes professional appearance by cleaning marks and suggests tools to make the process easier.