Chicago Bender 101 – How to Use a Mechanical Conduit Bender

Last updated on February 26th, 2024.

If you’re just starting in the electrical trade and haven’t had the chance to work with a Chicago bender, you’re in for a treat. A Chicago bender is a robust manual conduit bender, steeped in trade tradition—though the origin of its name remains a bit of a mystery. It’s a staple in the industry for a good reason.

These types of benders are primarily used for RMC (rigid metal conduit) or IMC (intermediate metal conduit), not EMT (electrical metallic conduit).

Components of a Chicago Bender

Understanding the components of a Chicago bender is key to mastering its use. It comes equipped with:

• a bending degree indicator
• a pipe hook that holds the end of the conduit
• a handle that slides into the lever unit (if you don’t have a handle you can use a piece of 1″)
• pipe supports that support the conduit during bending

Getting the Bender Set Up

To start, ensure the bender is on a flat surface. An uneven setup can throw off your bends, especially when working on precise 90s, offsets, or kicks, affecting the quality of your work.

Next you’ll need at least a 5′ piece of 1″ RMC for the handle (if the bender doesn’t have one). The longer the handle, the more leverage you’ll have which will make bending conduit easier.

I make it a point to secure the bender’s wheels to prevent any movement. While the T-shaped base provides some stability, bracing it when possible adds an extra layer of security during use.

Key Items To Remember When Using a Chicago Bender

1. Keep the conduit under control when unloading from the bender.
2. Make sure you maintain a firm grip on the handle. Spring-back may cause the handle to spring up suddenly.
3. If you need to move the bender make sure you remove the handle and conduit before doing so.
4. Inspect the bender before you use it. If something looks questionable don’t use it.

Try out a new bender with a scrap piece of pipe (if you have one). Remember to take your time when using a new Chicago bender. They take some getting use to and not every one is the same.

Mastering a hand bender already? Then transitioning to a Chicago bender will feel like a natural next step, with its unique advantages becoming quickly apparent.

Useful link: Greenlee Mechanical Bender instruction manual