Both induction bend and pipe elbow are used in piping systems to change the direction of the fluid flow. However, there are some key differences between the two:

1. Manufacturing process: Induction bends are manufactured using a process called induction heating, which involves heating a narrow band of the pipe to a high temperature and then bending it using a bending machine. Pipe elbows, on the other hand, are usually manufactured using a cold or hot forming process, such as mandrel bending or pressing.
2. Radius of curvature: Induction bends typically have a larger radius of curvature than pipe elbows. This means that they can change the direction of the flow more gradually and with less turbulence, which can be beneficial in certain applications.
3. Cost: Induction bends are generally more expensive than pipe elbows, due to the higher cost of the manufacturing process and the specialized equipment required.
4. Availability: Pipe elbows are more widely available than induction bends, which can be harder to find and may require longer lead times for delivery.
5. Application: Induction bends are often used in pipelines that carry corrosive or high-temperature fluids, as they can provide a smoother flow and reduce the risk of corrosion and erosion. Pipe elbows are more commonly used in low-pressure and low-temperature applications.