High-Quality
Sheet Metal
Bending Service
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
Sheet Metal Bending offers:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
Quality Matters | AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered
* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.
Table of Contents
What is Sheet Metal Bending?
Sheet metal bending forms a metal sheet into a desired shape or angle. It involves forcing the sheet metal to bend at a specific point, creating a permanent bend or curve. Various tools and machines are used, including press brakes, rollers, and bending machines. The process is commonly used in manufacturing industries to create HVAC ductwork, metal enclosures, and automotive parts. The bending angle and degree of curvature can be adjusted depending on the desired outcome, and different materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and copper can also be used. Accurate measurements and precision are crucial in bending sheet metal to ensure consistency and quality in the final product.
How does Sheet Metal Bending work?
Sheet Metal bending is a standard metal forming process that involves manipulating metal sheets using various tools and machines. During the bending process, the sheet metal is often clamped between a punch and die and then pressed to create a bend at a specific angle. The amount of force needed to achieve the desired turn is determined by several factors, including the type of metal being used, the thickness of the sheet, and the bend angle.
Metal bending can be performed using various methods, including air bending, bottom bending, coining, roller bending, and v bending. Each technique offers unique advantages and is selected based on the project’s specifics. After bending, the sheet metal is often trimmed, and excess material is removed using various machining processes. Overall, bending sheet metal is a crucial process that creates durable, high-quality metal products for multiple industries and applications.
Sheet Metal Bending Services at Prototek
OEM:
Amada and Birmingham
Lead Time:
1 – 15 Days
Max Dimensions:
Roll Length & Diameter: 4-3/4 in (capacity based on Mild Steel)
Pinch Adjustment: Standard
Material:
Aluminum, Copper, Stainless Steel, Titanium
Prototek's Materials
Prototek is a highly specialized company. We are experts in working with various materials, including aluminum, copper, stainless steel, and titanium. Aluminum, for instance, is known for its lightness and corrosion-resistant properties, making it a popular material in many applications. On the other hand, copper is highly conductive and heat-resistant, making it an excellent choice for electrical and industrial applications. Stainless steel is another popular material used for its durability and corrosion-resistant properties while providing a modern appearance. Lastly, titanium is a strong yet lightweight valuable material in extreme environments such as aerospace and medical applications. With its expertise in sheet metal bending and its knowledge of these materials, Prototek is well-equipped to handle any project and is heat-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for electrical and industrial applications. Stainless steel is another popular material used for its durability and corrosion-resistant properties while providing a modern appearance. Lastly, titanium is a strong yet lightweight valuable material in extreme environments such as aerospace and medical applications. With their expertise in sheet metal bending and their knowledge of these materials, Prototek is well-equipped to handle any project.
Designing Recommendations
Sheet metal bending is a complex process that involves various steps, such as material selection, tooling, and setup. To achieve quality bends, it is necessary to consider several factors, including the material’s strength, elasticity, and thickness, as well as the bend radius, angle, and tolerance required for the final product. These factors can influence the quality of the bend and can cause defects like cracking, buckling or wrinkling. Therefore, it is essential to understand the material properties and choose the right tools and equipment to ensure optimal outcomes.
One of the critical aspects of sheet metal fabrication is the k-factor. The k-factor is a mathematical ratio used to calculate the neutral axis of a bend, which separates the stretched and compressed metal regions during the bending process. The k-factor also determines the amount of sheet metal material displaced during bending. Various factors influence the k-factor, including the type of material, bend radius, thickness, and bending method. Understanding the k-factor is vital in sheet metal fabrication. It can help manufacturers accurately predict the material required for a specific bend angle, thus reducing material waste and improving efficiency.
By considering the k-factor, fabricators can create accurate flat patterns to cut the sheet metal to the correct size before bending. The balanced patterns are also used to calculate the bend allowance, the additional material required to compensate for the sheet metal’s stretching during the bending process. Designers and fabricators can use this information to ensure the final product meets the required specifications and tolerances.
In summary, sheet metal bending is a complex process that requires careful consideration of various factors such as material selection, tooling, and setup. Understanding the k-factor is crucial in sheet metal fabrication. It allows manufacturers to accurately predict the material required for a specific bend angle, reducing material waste and improving efficiency. By considering the k-factor, designers, and fabricators can create accurate flat patterns and ensure that the final product meets the required specifications.
| K-Factors | Soft Metals | Medium Metals | Hard Metals |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Bending |
|
|
|
|
0 - Mt |
0.33 |
o.38 |
0.40 |
|
Mt - 3Mt |
0.40 |
0.43 |
0.45 |
|
> 3Mt |
0.50 |
0.50 |
0.50 |
|
Bottoming |
|
|
|
|
0 - Mt |
0.42 |
0.44 |
0.46 |
|
Mt - 3Mt |
0.46 |
0.47 |
0.48 |
|
> 3Mt |
0.50 |
0.50 |
0.50 |
|
Coining |
|
|
|
|
0 - Mt |
0.38 |
0.41 |
0.44 |
|
Mt - 3Mt |
0.44 |
0.46 |
0.47 |
|
> 3Mt |
0.50 |
0.50 |
0.50 |
Mt (material thickness) | > (greater than)
Sheet Metal Fabrication Finishes
Choosing the right finish for sheet metal fabrication projects is crucial for looks and protection. Options include powder coating, painting, anodizing, and plating. Each has benefits and drawbacks, so select depending on the application, metal type, budget, and environment. Partnering with an experienced sheet metal fabrication company will guide the right choice of finish, enhancing appearance and increasing durability.
Why choose Prototek for your sheet metal bending next project?
Prototek is a top sheet metal company that offers high-quality services for your next project. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, we have proven to be a reliable partner for clients across various industries. Our company uses state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure precision and accuracy in their sheet metal bending services. We also have a team of experienced and skilled professionals who can provide guidance and support through every step of the process. Our company’s commitment to quality, competitive pricing, and timely delivery makes them an excellent partner for any sheet metal project, from prototyping to production. Ultimately, choosing us means working with a trusted partner who will help you achieve your project’s goals efficiently, effectively, and with the highest level of quality.
