The Southwire RB1000 Bendstation Pro Rigid Workstation is a mobile bending platform used for bending and working with rigid and IMC conduit in 3/4″ and 1″ trade sizes. This non-powered tool utilizes a ratcheting shoe with sufficient leverage for an average-sized operator to easily bend conduit. The Southwire Bendstation unit is mounted to a workstation allowing for an ergonomic working height.
The Bendstation offers a dual-bending shoe designed for both 3/4″ and 1″ rigid and IMC, plus a 60″ ruler integrated on the working surface for quick and accurate marking. A side-mounted chain vise works to clamp materials for cutting or threading, and it’s tilted a couple degrees to allow oil to run out into a bucket. The model we photographed during a recent demo is the similar Southwire MB1000 EMT bending table but features a speed vice—most other features are very similar or identical to the RB1000 rigid bending table.
The Southwire RB1000 rigid bending table comes equipped with a built-in protractor for fast and accurate bending. Do to the nature of conduit bending back against your work, you’ll still need to go a few degrees beyond your intended angle. The work table height is set at 36 inches—perfect for getting items prepped without killing your back. Additionally, the gear ratio is 40% less than the Greenlee “Chicago” bender. Use the integrated ratchet, and you can move the lever from a vertical position to a side position to give you some more leverage and an even easier bend.
Like many of Southwire’s bending and pulling products, the RB1000 bending table is also designed with integrated storage features. It can carry up to 700 feet of conduit, strut or 1,000-pounds of other materials. An additional shelf stores tools and accessories. Heavy-duty casters ensure durable mobility on the jobsite (we wheeled the demo unit quite easily over grass).
“We had the opportunity to see one of the Southwire Bendstations in action when Central Florida reps Mike and Frank came to visit us. If you’re even mildly interested in reducing operator fatigue and saving your back, you’ll love the stand up operation. Mobile storage for tools and materials along with a chain vise is just icing on the cake.”
– Kenny Koehler, Pro Tool Reviews Managing Editor
Southwire RB1000 Bendstation Rigid Workstation Key Features
- Delivers accurate measurements, bends, and cuts
- Built-in protractor
- 36″ work table height
- Stores up to 700 feet of conduit, strut, or 1000 pounds of other materials
- Tool storage shelf
- Heavy duty casters
- Reduces fatigue through working in a natural standing position
- Dual-bending shoe fits both 3/4″ and 1″ rigid and IMC
- Bending requires up to 40% less force to bend than other mechanical benders
- 60″ ruler is incorporated on the working surface
- Adjustable side-mounted chain vise
Southwire RB1000 Bendstation Pro Specifications
- Model Number: RB1000
- Bending Capacity: 3/4″ or 1″ (rigid and IMC)
- Storage Capcaity: 700 feet conduit, 1000 pounds total
- Dimensions: 29 x 69 x 38.5 in.
- Weight: 170 lbs.
The Southwire RB1000 retails for $3,565 while the current MB1000 sells for around $2,898. For more information about the Southwire RB1000 Bendstation Rigid Workstation, click here.
