Dragon A250

The Essential CNC Tube and Pipe Plasma Cutting Machine

The Dragon A250 CNC tube and pipe plasma cutter easily marks and engraves on tube and pipe to make CAD/CAM designs a reality. 

  • Fabricate any design with holes and end cuts
  • Mark all bending locations, rotations, and degrees on the pipe
  • Time-saving tool for tube and pipe processes
  • Industry leader with over 1,000 machines in the field
  • Proudly made in the USA

 

Schedule a Virtual Demo to see your parts come to life.

Features & Benefits

CNC Plasma Cut Pipe

Automation to Meet Demand

With cut speeds up to 250 inches per minute, the Dragon A250 CNC plasma cutter brings automation to a common bottleneck of fabrication: tube and pipe notching. The efficiency and accuracy decrease production time while providing the desired fit-up every time. Contact Sales for more information. 
Contact Sales for more information.
Bend-Tech Building

Made in the USA

The Bend-Tech Dragon A250 is designed and made in the USA. Machine production, software development, and technical support all take place at headquarters in Osceola, Wisconsin. 

Available A250 CNC Plasma Cutter Add-Ons

Bend-Tech offers a number of Dragon A250 plasma cutter add-ons to increase throughput.

Dragon Cooling System

Material Coolant System

The material coolant system increases cut quality and reduces slag amount and fumes from plasma cutting through a continuous loop of coolant.

Companies that cut aluminum, stainless steel, or tubing with a small OD are encouraged to include a material coolant system in their purchase.

Plasma Cutter

Plasma System

The level of plasma system required varies based on multiple factors involving the materials being cut.

To best decide what level of plasma system is required, talk to a Bend-Tech Sales Person.

Built to Handle Your Material

Dragon Material Types

Material Types

  • Steel
  • Stainless Steel
  • Galvanized Steel
  • Aluminum
  • Black Pipe
  • Chrome Alloy
  • Any type of electrically conductive metal
Dragon A250 Material Size

Material Sizing

  • Round: 0.75 inch (19mm) – 4 inch OD (101.6mm)
Dragon A250 Side

Material Length

  • Full-length machine: 21 feet (6.4m)
  • Half-length machine: 12 feet (3.65m)
  • The chuck has a pass-through hole that allows round tubing up to 2 inch OD to pass-through for pieces of material longer than the machine
Dragon Material Thickness

Material Weight & Thickness

  • Maximum capacity of 260 lbs (118kg)
  • Min: 1/32 inch (0.79mm)
  • Max: 5/8 inch (15.8mm)

Machines Designed for Software

Dragon Design to Production

Design to Production Made Easy with Bend-Tech CAD & CAM Software

The Bend-Tech Software is an essential part of what makes the Dragon A400 the best tube cutter in the market. Used by over 27,000 fabricators, it increases efficiency and decreases waste.

Every Dragon comes standard with the powerful Bend-Tech Dragon Software.

See the ease of use and quick learning curve with a live demo of the Dragon Software.

CAD Import

Import 3D Parts or Design From Scratch

The Dragon CAD imports STEP and IGES files that are supported by most CAD software, such as Solidworks, Tekla, SDS2, AutoCAD, ProEngineer, and more. Once imported, the Dragon CAD software will trace the CAD geometry and convert it into a CAM-ready file. This process normalizes along the cut path for a weld-ready part. The CAM-ready file is read by the Dragon A250 for CNC production.

Dragon Machine Control

Full Machine Control

The Dragon software gives full control of the Dragon machine to the operator. The operator can move all axes, control speed, and start or stop the job when needed. 

The G-Code viewer is available to see each action in detail. With the click of a button, homing the machine is easy.

Do More with an Automatic Toolhead

The Dragon A250 toolhead comes with a plasma torch mount, permanent marker with mount, and laser light with mount to ensure quality parts and easy assembly.

A250 Toolhead Tools
Mark Icon

Mark

The marker is commonly used for bend location, bend rotation, saddle fitment marks, part number/i.d., text, and more.

Engrave icon

Engrave

The engraver is commonly used for bend location, bend rotation, saddle fitment marks, part number/i.d., text, and more.

Cut Icon

Cut

The plasma torch cuts all profiles and holes into the tube.

Align

Align

The laser light gives an accurate lineup to start every job with accuracy.

Quick and Easy Loading Process

Dragon A250 front gate

Gate

The gate has two adjustable self-centering vice-like jaws that can secure tubes up to 4 inch OD. These jaws hold their position, which allows the operator to run the same size of a tube without having to adjust the gate with every new stick.

Dragon A250 chuck

Chuck

The chuck has three self-centering jaws to hold round profile tubing. It has a pass-through hole that allows round tubing up to 2” OD to pass-through for longer pieces of material.

Dragon A250 material lifter

Material Support Lift

The automation of the material support lift keeps the material level for accurate cutting. The material support helps hold full-length material during the loading process.

Increase Output with CNC

The four axes of movement allow any shape or profile to be cut out of round material. Complete automation with the Dragon A250 produces parts faster and more accurately than hole saws, grinders, or any other manual methods. The automation of the axes gives +/- 0.010 inch tolerance. Parts drop in a single location with the fixed toolhead, creating an efficient production workflow. 

Dragon A250 Full Automation
Dragon A250 Axes

A & Z Axes

Lead screws move the Toolhead from side to side (Z-axis) and up and down (A-axis).

Dragon A250 axes y

Y-Axis

A gear-driven system rotates the material

Dragon X

X-Axis

A precision rack and anti-backlash pinion drive system moves the material along its length.

Trying to decide which Dragon CNC Plasma Tube and Pipe Cutter is Best for Your Application?

Dragon A250

Bend-Tech Dragon A250 CNC plasma tube and pipe cutter

Dragon A400

A400

Excellence in Customer Support

The Bend-Tech Dragon Customer Support department is an in-house team that persists in helping the customer until the problem is resolved.

Customer Support

The Bend-Tech Dragon A400 is fully supported. For many companies, contacting the support staff can take time, be frustrating, and slow down your shop’s production. When you call Bend-Tech support, a Dragon Technician will answer during our hours of operation. The Bend-Tech support staff is made up of thoroughly trained Dragon Technicians that focus on minimizing any down time in your shop’s production. Our customer support is available over the phone and via email during the regular business hours of 8 AM to 4 PM (CST) Monday through Friday. If your Dragon needs in-person help, contact Bend-Tech to schedule and purchase an in-person shop visit from a Dragon Technician.

Additional Details

Select an option below or fill out the form to get in touch

Request More Information on the Dragon A250

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Bend-Tech Dragon Financing

Bend-Tech can offer lease and finance solutions to get you the machinery needed to grow your business.

Bend-Tech Dragon Financing

Competitive and fair lease/finance solutions

  • Personalized, in-house credit decisions
  • Flexible terms, ranging from 1-5 years
  • 100% financing at competitive rates
  • No early pay-off penalties
  • Options for $0 down and deferred payments
  • Customized lease-to-own agreements
  • Industry-leading terms for Start-Ups
  • Up to $250K for established businesses

Financing Benefits

  • Speed! Your application can be turned into an order as little as one day
  • Direct lender, not a broker – you’ll stay with them from start to finish
  • Product Knowledge – 20+ year’s experience in the fabrication market
  • Customer Service – every time you call, you’ll speak with a live person

See how easy it is to get a Dragon in your shop

*Financing provided by Geneva Capital

Please fill out the form below to request a software demo

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Please fill out the form below for more information on the Bend-Tech Dragon

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System Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

  • Windows Operating System (XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11). Bend-Tech software does NOT run on MAC.
  • 1 GHz Processor
  • 2 GB RAM (Memory)
  • 1 GB Hard Drive Space
  • 1024 x 768 Screen Resolution
  • OpenGL 1.3 Compatible Graphics Card
  • .NET Framework 3.5 Installed
  • Active Internet Connection (Internet connection is needed during the first activation and then every 6 month, software can run offline in between)

Recommended Requirements:

  • Windows Operating System (7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11). Bend-Tech software does NOT run on MAC.
  • 1GHz Dual-Core Processor
  • 4GB Ram (Memory)
  • 1 GB Hard Drive Space
  • 1280 x 800 Screen Resolution or greater
  • OpenGL 1.3 Compatible Graphics Card
  • .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 Installed
  • 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.

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.