About Bend-Tech

Redefining How Fabricators Design and Produce

Driven by Curiosity. Built with Integrity. Focused on Growth.

Bend-Tech designs and manufactures production-ready software and machinery for tube and pipe fabrication. With 50+ employees and two facilities in Wisconsin, Bend-Tech has grown by staying committed to providing real-world solutions and listening to customer feedback.

Commitment to Customers

By keeping sales, support, engineering, and manufacturing all under one roof, Bend-Tech provides faster communication, shorter lead times, and full control over every aspect of machines and software. No outsourced support, no third-party manufacturing. Everything is designed, built, and backed in Osceola, WI. 

Sales and Support 

Sales and Support Applications Engineers work side by side, enabling immediate technical guidance with less back and forth. This close collaboration ensures more personalized and practical support for every customer. 

Software and Engineering

All software and machine engineering is done in-house, allowing seamless integration between design, performance, and usability. Engineers and developers collaborate closely with Support and Manufacturing teams to ensure solutions are practical, reliable, and built with real-world fabrication workflows in mind. 

Manufacturing and Assembly

Machines are designed, assembled, and tested entirely at Bend-Tech headquarters. Full control over production ensures consistent quality, precision, and reliability in every delivered machine. Close collaboration with other departments ensures that each machine meets the practical needs of fabricators.

Bend-Tech by the Numbers

35,500+

Customers

Over 2,000

Machines

25 Years

In Business

Our Journey

Founded
After over 20 years in the fabrication industry, Cris Merry founded 2020 Software Solutions, providing CAD software products for tube and pipe fabricators. The Bend-Tech fabrication software is an easy-to-use program that automates much of the calculation for bending tube and pipe.
First Employee
After a couple years developing and supporting the initial CAD Software, the first employee was hired on as a Software Developer. Cris and his first employee would go on to create Bend-Tech 5x and lay the groundwork for the development of Bend-Tech software for years to come.
Bend-Tech 7x
After the release of Bend-Tech 5x, customer feedback directly informed the development of 7x. This next-generation tube and pipe software introduced advanced features, significantly improving how fabricators design and manage their projects.
Dragon A150
The company grew to include sales staff, a graphic designer, and more developers. Cris identified a manufacturer and developed a dedicated CAM software package that brought the Dragon A150, a CNC plasma cutter for tube and pipe, to market.
Dragon A400
After successfully bringing the Dragon A150 to market, Bend-Tech recognized a need for larger tube and pipe processing. The Dragon A400 was a completely new, production-ready machine capable of processing tubing and piping up to 400 lbs. and 24 feet in length.
A400 Upgraded
The Dragon A400 received the first major upgrade of a 6th automated axis. This new axis allowed the A400 to process angle and channel profile material, in addition to its round, rectangle, and square profile capabilities, significantly expanding its material versatility.
A New Generation
After five successful years on the market, the Dragon A150 was retired from the lineup. Its successor, the A250, was engineered specifically for fabricators working exclusively with round material. It provides a cost-effective solution without sacrificing precision or performance.
Engineering and New Product Development
Building on decades of experience and customer driven innovation, Bend-Tech continued to invest heavily in engineering and new product development. The team expanded its capabilities across both software and machinery, refining existing solutions while developing new systems designed to meet the evolving demands of modern fabrication shops.
25 Years in Business
Marking 25 years in the industry, Bend-Tech stands as a testament to consistent innovation and long-term customer commitment. From its roots in CAD software to a fully integrated lineup of fabrication solutions, the continued focus to deliver practical, reliable tools that help fabricators work more effectively remains every day.
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Bend-Tech Today

Join Our Team

At Bend-Tech, curiosity drives innovation, integrity guides every decision, and growth is at the center of our team working and learning together. Employees collaborate across departments, contribute directly to products, and see real-world impact of their work in the fabrication industry. Joining the Bend-Tech team means being part of a supportive, hands-on environment where ideas are valued, skills are developed, and long-term success is shared. 

Learn More

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System Requirements

Minimum Supported Requirements:

  • Windows 10 or Higher Operating System. (Bend-Tech software does NOT run on MAC.)
  • 1 GHz Processor
  • 4 GB RAM (Memory)
  • 1 GB Hard Drive Space
  • OpenGL 1.3 Compatible Graphics Card
  • Active Internet Connection (Internet connection is needed during first activation and then every 6 months, software can run offline after activation)

Recommended Requirements:

  • Windows 11 Operating System. Bend-Tech software does NOT run on MAC.
  • Intel Core 10th Generation I5 or better
  • 8GB Ram (Memory)
  • 1 GB Hard Drive Space (SSD Recommended)
  • 1920 x 1080 Screen Resolution or greater
  • OpenGL 1.3 Compatible Graphics Card
  • PDF Reader Installed (for Help Guides)
  • Full Keyboard and Mouse
  • High-Speed Internet

Material Support Lift (B-Axies)

Bend-Tech A400 Material support
  • The material support lift automatically moves up and down and moves out of the way from the track when not needed. The complete automation prevents the center support from colliding with the track and chuck trolley.
  • The fully automatic material support lift prevents bowing in long pieces (as shown in red above) for accurate cutting, marking, and engraving.
  • As shown above, the material support lift goes up and down to maintain constant centered leveling support as a square or rectangle tube rotates.

Dragon A400 - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the material capabilities?

  • Tube Profile: 1” – 6” round,” to “Tube Profile: 0.75” – 6” round
  • Tube Material Type: steel, aluminum, stainless steel, DOM, HREW, black pipe, galvanized steel, and any type of electrically conductive material.
  • Tube Length: full stick length capable up to 24 feet.

What is included in the purchase of a Dragon A400?

The Dragon A400 machine, center support lifter, marker, engraver, laser pointer, technology package, and Bend-Tech Dragon Software. Requirements: An active internet connection, a plasma torch with a mechanized head, 220-240V outlets, two 110-120V outlets, misc. outlets, and an air compressor. Available add-ons: plasma system, material coolant system, angle/channel motorized gate, and additional software license.

What size of plasma cutter does the machine use?

Contact our sales personnel so they can assist in selecting the correct plasma system.

What is the warranty

Your Dragon A400 has a 12 month electronics and hardware limited warranty.

What service is available for the machine?

Customer support always answers the phone during our business hours and we strive to work with you to resolve the problem. If necessary, Bend-Tech can send a Dragon Technician to location.

How does the initial setup process work?

Your Dragon A400 is shipped partially assembled. All Dragon A400 machines are fully assembled, calibrated, and tested at headquarters. Then, the machines are partially disassembled for shipping. Your Dragon A400 comes with a comprehensive assembly manual.

Are replacement parts available?

Yes, we keep a full stock of inventory of parts.

Where is the Dragon A400 made?

Your Dragon A400 is proudly assembled here in the USA. All of our departments are located in our 36,000 square foot facility in Osceola, Wisconsin. Almost all of the parts are from the Minneapolis & St. Paul area here in the Midwest.

Does the software have import, export, CAD/CAM, and designer abilities?

Yes. The Dragon CAD/CAM software can import/export to and from many of the commonly used CAD programs (such as Solidworks, Inventor, AutoCAD, PRO Engineer, Tekla, SDS2, etc.) and can be used as a design program.

What software maintenance, charges, and updates occur with the Dragon?

A 2 Year Maintenance Package is included in the purchase of a Bend-Tech Dragon A400. After the 2 Year Maintenance Package has expired, there is a year long maintenance package that is repurchased on a yearly basis to continue to receive support and software updates.

What is your current lead time?

Typically, our lead time is 2 – 4 weeks. Bend-Tech always has inventory of the A400 by constantly manufacturing machines. For the current lead time, contact our sales personnel.

Is the Dragon A400 a production machine?

Yes

How many Dragon machines are out in the field?

Over 600

How does the Dragon A400 load?

From the front, back, top, or either side; it depends on how your shop is set up and what you are cutting. There are multiple ways to easily load material. The tube can be placed in the front gate, then tightened into the self-centering four jaw chuck, and then the front gate can be closed to the correct amount of tightness on the material. Usually, loading takes one person.

What is the cut speed?

The cut speed varies based on a variety of factors; including material size, cut design, material type, tolerance requirements, material thickness, the use of a coolant system, and others. Depending on the variables, the torch can run up to 120 inches per minute while cutting. Between cutting, the rapid travel can run up to 1100 inches per minute (X-axis) and 30 RPM (Y-axis).

What is the cut quality/dross level?

The dross level varies based on a variety of factors; including amperage used, cut speed, material size, cut design, material type, tolerance requirements, and material thickness. Optional coolant circulation system can greatly improve the cut quality and dross level. You can request a benchmark/sample package to see the Dragon cut parts in person.

What is the tolerance on the cuts?

+/- 0.010” (0.254mm)

How easy is the software to use?

Like many software programs, it does take some time to get comfortable knowing the ins and outs of the Bend-Tech Software. Most people become comfortable using the Bend-Tech Software after a couple days of practice and from there they become increasingly aware of the more detailed features. In case there is confusion with certain aspects of the software, we have Wiki pages and videos to help teach and train people on the software (see more). Also, the Bend-Tech support staff is always around to help during the normal weekly business hours. There is an On-site Training option available for purchase (see more). The On-site Training includes Bend-Tech sending a Dragon Technician on-site to train your Dragon Operator(s) on how to use the machine and the software. Customers are also allowed to come visit Bend-Tech headquarters to receive their training.

How long has Bend-Tech been in the tube and pipe business?

Since 2001

Do you have more questions for us? We have a full staff of dedicated sales personnel to help answer any of your questions:

  • Phone: 651-257-8715
  • sales@bend-tech.com

Dragon A400 - Post Purchase Items

Delivery

  • The lead time for the Dragon A400 is typically zero to four weeks. Shipping usually takes about a week, but varies on location. Once your Dragon has started shipping, you will receive a tracking number. Contact Bend-Tech sales personnel for a current lead time.
  • Bend-Tech is responsible for the package through the delivery process. Bend-Tech coordinates with the shipping company and if there are any problems, Bend-Tech resolves the error with the shipping company. If there is an error or damage in the shipping, please contact the Bend-Tech sales personnel right away. The Bend-Tech sales personnel focus on making sure the necessary steps are taken to get the machine up and running as soon as possible.
  • The Bend-Tech Dragon A400 is shipped in a fully enclosed wood crate. The crate is 10’ (3.05m) length by 5.5’ (1.68m) width by 7’ (2.13m) height.

Installation

The Dragon A400 ships partially assembled. All Dragon A400 machines are fully assembled and calibrated at headquarters. Then, the machines are partially disassembled for shipping. Your Dragon A400 comes with a comprehensive assembly guide to instruct on how to properly reassemble the machine.

Technical Documents

  • The technical documents are a detailed description on all of the different aspects of the machine so that an operator can be self-sufficient in all things with your Dragon A400 machine.
  • Included in the technical documentation is: Customer Order, Crate Packing Checklist, Assembly Manual, Start-Up and Training Manual.

Warranty

  • Your Dragon A400 has a 12 month limited warranty. Defective or faulty parts identified on the machine within this time period after delivery will be replaced at no charge and shipped to the location. After the 12 month warranty period, replacement parts can be purchased through Bend-Tech, LLC. and shipped to the location at the customer’s discretion.
  • THE WARRANTY MAY BECOME VOID OR LIMITED IN THE EVENT THAT YOU MAKE HARDWARE CHANGES OR ADAPTATIONS TO THE MACHINE.

Dragon A400 Software Maintenance Plan

A 2 year Software Maintenance Package is included in the purchase of a Bend-Tech Dragon A400. After the 2 Year Software Maintenance Package has expired, there is a year long maintenance package that is repurchased on a yearly basis to continue to receive support and software updates. The Dragon Software is always improving to ensure the best capabilities for your company and others. The Software Maintenance Package provides consistent updates to your software and keeps you running with the newest capabilities. Your Bend-Tech, LLC. sales person will contact you one month to two weeks before your maintenance plan expires to ask if you would like to re-apply for an annual subscription.

Dragon A400 - Shop Requirements

Machine Footprint

a400 footprints
  1. The 12’ length machine has a footprint of 19.1’ (5.82m) length by 2.5’ (0.76m) width by 6.1’ (1.86m) height.
  2. The 24’ length machine has a footprint of 32’ (9.75m) length by 2.5’ (0.76m) width by 6.1’ (1.86m) height.
  3. The enclosed workstation cabinet is the Technology Package is 2’ (0.61m) length by 2.1’ (0.64m) width by 5.3’ (1.62m) height and a power cord lead of 12’ (3.66m). (This is an add-on feature that does not come standard with the machine.)

Setup Requirements

a400 machine setup
  • Dedicated Windows desktop or laptop with an ethernet port (The computer running your Dragon machine cannot be running other machines. Technology Package comes standard with the machine.)
  • Active internet connection (for the activation of your Dragon Software and to receive important updates.)
  • >Plasma system with mechanized head.
  • 220-600V outlet (for plasma system)
  • Two to four 110-120V outlets (one for the machine, one for the laptop or computer, one if a computer monitor is being used, and one if the optional coolant system is purchased).
  • An air compressor or inert gas with two lines (one line for the control box and one line for the plasma system).

A250 Post Purchase Items

Delivery

  • The production lead time for the Dragon A250 is typically 0 to 4 weeks. Shipping usually takes about a week but varies on location. Once your Dragon has started shipping, you will receive a tracking number. Contact a Bend-Tech salesperson for a current lead time.
  • If needed, the Dragon A250 can be liftgate delivered and moved with a pallet jack.
  • Bend-Tech is responsible for the package through the delivery process. Bend-Tech coordinates with the shipping company. If there is an error or damage in the shipping, please contact the Bend-Tech service team right away. The Bend-Tech service team focuses on making sure the necessary steps are taken to get the machine up and running as soon as possible.

Installation

The Dragon A250 is shipped partially assembled in one crate. The Dragon A250 comes with instructions on the proper set up and install process.

Warranty

  • Your Dragon A250 has a 12-month limited warranty. Defective or faulty parts identified on the machine within this time period after delivery will be replaced at no charge and shipped to the location. After the 12-month warranty period, replacement parts can be purchased through Bend-Tech, LLC. and shipped to the location at the customer’s discretion.
  • THE WARRANTY MAY BECOME VOID OR LIMITED IN THE EVENT THAT YOU MAKE HARDWARE CHANGES OR ADAPTATIONS TO THE MACHINE.

Dragon A250 Software Maintenance Plan:

Included with the purchase of your Dragon, the 2-Year Maintenance Package has the latest updates and enhancements in the software and direct customer support over the phone, email, or computer.

The Next Step Towards Owning a Dragon

In Person

Bend-Tech Cutting

Call or email Bend-Tech to set up a time to come visit us to see the Dragon and Bend-Tech Software in person. We always welcome people to tour our facilities and receive detailed information from our Dragon Technicians through live demonstrations. If you cannot visit us in person, we can give a virtual tour of our facilities with an online video chat.

Benchmark

Bend-Tech Benchmark

Contact us and we will make a benchmark of your parts. Send us the material and the design file, and we will cut out the parts and ship them to you with a video link of your parts being cut via email. The benchmark provides an opportunity to see the cut speed, cut quality, and clean up amount for your parts.

Virtual Cutting Demonstration

Zoom Demo

Call or email Bend-Tech to set up a time to connect with us online via live video. Our sales staff and Dragon Technicians will demonstrate the Dragon’s operation live and answer any of your questions.

Sample Package

Bend-Tech Dragon Samples

Bend-Tech can send you a sample package containing a variety of sample parts cut on the Dragon. Round, square, steel, and aluminum tubes have various cuts that show the Dragon’s cut quality (the sample pack is free including shipping).

Comprehensive Pricing Guide

Bend-Tech Dragon

Contact Bend-Tech for a comprehensive pricing sheet. The pricing sheet breaks down the price on each available item. This allows you to select the best options that fits your shop’s needs.

Schedule a demo or request a sample

Shop Requirements

Setup Requirements

  • Active internet connection, for the activation of your Dragon Software and to receive important updates.
  • Plasma system with mechanized head. 220-600V outlet (for plasma system).
  • Plasma system with mechanized head.
  • 220-600V outlet for plasma system
  • Two to four 110-120V outlets. One for the machine, one for the laptop or computer, one if a computer monitor is being used, and one if the optional coolant system is purchased.
  • An air compressor or inert gas with one line, for the plasma system.

Dragon A250 - Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the purchase of a Dragon A250?

The Dragon A250 machine, marker, laser light, and the Bend-Tech Dragon Software Suite.

How does the initial setup process work?

Your Dragon A250 is shipped partially assembled and comes with a comprehensive assembly manual to instruct on how to properly reassemble the machine.

Are replacement parts available?

Yes, we keep a full stock inventory of parts.

Where is the Dragon A250 made?

The Dragon A250 is proudly designed, manufactured, and assembled in Osceola, WI, USA.

Is the CAD/CAM software included?

Yes, the Bend-Tech Dragon Software Suite is included with your Dragon A250.

How many Dragon machines are out in the field?

Over 600 and counting.

How does the Dragon A250 load?

From the front, back, top, or either side; it depends on how your shop is set up and what you are cutting there are multiple ways to easily load material. The tube can be placed in the front gate, then tightened into the self-centering three jaw chuck, and then the front gate can be closed to the correct amount of tightness on the material. Usually, loading is done by one person.

What is the cut tolerance on the Dragon A250?

+/- 0.010 inch

What is the cut quality/dross level?

The dross level varies based on a variety of factors; including amperage used, cut speed, material size, cut design, material type, tolerance requirements, and material thickness. The optional Material Coolant System add-on can greatly improve the cut quality and dross level. You can request a benchmark/sample package to see Dragon cut parts in person.

Do you have more questions for us? We have a full staff of dedicated sales personnel to help answer any of your questions:

  • Phone: 651-257-8715
  • sales@bend-tech.com

Security Dongle

If a valid internet connection is not available on your computer, you may choose to purchase a security dongle to use the software offline. This will allow your computer to run Bend-Tech software as long as the security dongle is plugged into an available USB port on the computer. This USB security dongle becomes the license for your software.

Important

While the security dongle will allow your computer to run Bend-Tech software without an internet connection, there are a few drawbacks to using the offline method. Bend-Tech software will not be able to automatically download any new updates and the direct Help Session will not be available. Also, any maintenance of a security dongle requires shipment back to our facility and back to you at additional cost. If you are unable to provide shipment of your security dongle (such as loss or theft), you will be required to purchase the dongle along with the full price of your software.

Purchase Dongle