Do you know sheet metal bending has its origins in art? Back in the late 15th century, Leonardo Di Vinci introduced the idea of bending sheet metals in his works. The sketch took a while to become a reality, as, by 1590, metal workers started altering the thickness and shape of metal. They accomplished the task by pressing it between heavy cylinders. At this day and age, we have a variety of advanced techniques to bend metal sheets. Do you want to know what they are? Carry on reading to know the types of sheet metal bending.
Types of Sheet Metal Bending
The process of bending metal sheets is pretty straightforward. A force is applied to the metal sheet, which changes its geometry by causing stress that’s greater than its yield strength. As a result, the sheet metal successfully deforms physically without breaking.
Although it seems simple, there are actually different types of sheet bending processes. These methods vary in operation, and you can choose the best one based on your project. These methods include:
As suggested by its name, this process involves using a V-shaped die. The worker can punch the metal at desired angles, be it acute, obtuse, or 90° angle. Thus, the sheet will turn into a v-shaped groove with the required bend angles. This bending method is the most common procedure for bending metal sheets.
2. Air Bending
Similar to the V-bending method, air bending also employs the v-shaped punch and die to bend the sheet. While the v-bending process punches the sheet into the bottom of the cavity, the air-bending process leaves some space underneath. This provides more control over the bend angle than the conventional v-bending angle.
With bottoming, the spring back of sheet metal doesn’t happen. After bending is complete, additional force is applied to press the sheet metal at the die’s bottom. By doing so, you can achieve a perfect angle. In addition, bottoming provides precise control over the bend angle.
4. Wipe Bending
In this method, bending occurs by using a press pad to press the sheet metal against a wipe die. Next, the punch moves along the sheet’s edge to bend the ends. Simply put, wipe bending bends the edge of a metal sheet.
5. Roll Bending
By employing the roll bending method, you can bend the sheet metal into tubes, rolls, cones, or curved shapes. The process involves a set of rollers to feed and turn the sheet as required. Furthermore, using the roll bending machine helps form parts like tracks, panels, shelving, and more.
6. Rotary Draw Bending
In this method, a rotating die is used to bend the metal sheet. You can clamp the sheet to the die to form the desired bend radius. Usually, rotary draw bending uses an internal supporting mandrel, ensuring that the bent sheet’s wall does not wrinkle.
What Should I Do?
There are around 6 types of sheet metal bending. These processes make it possible to bend metal sheets to your desired angle. If you’re looking for the best steel supplies, contact Fort Bend Steel Supply at (281) 499-5800.