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Sheet Metal Bending Processes: Understanding the Basics

In industrial settings, the concept of “bending” carries dual significance: it denotes both the physical act of folding or curving an object and the deliberate deformation of materials for manufacturing purposes. This article endeavors to delve into the latter interpretation, offering a comprehensive exploration of bending processes within the realm of manufacturing.

What is Bending?

Bending refers to the act of applying force to deform an object, causing it to bend or warp.

When force is applied to an object, it undergoes deformation, causing a plastic deformation on certain materials, such as metals, thermoplastics, and wood, exhibit deformation. This means that even after the force is removed, they retain their deformed shape without losing strength. This property forms the basis of bending processes in manufacturing.

Common Applications of Bending Processes

Bending processes, particularly for metals, encompass various techniques tailored to specific applications:

– Sheet Metal Fabrication: Involves bending sheet metal using universal dies and a press brake. This method offers precise control over bend angles and lengths.

– Press Operations: Utilizes dedicated dies and a press machine to shape metal components. Common products include kitchenware, metal sieves, and badge pins.

– Roll Forming: Shapes metal sheets by passing them through alternating sets of three rolls, producing large-radius curves. This process is used in manufacturing large cylindrical structures.

– Tank Manufacturing: Fabricates tanks, ducts, and support structures.

Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication refers to the bending process applied to sheet metal, shaping it into various forms.

Aside from bending, other methods for processing sheet metal include press forming, roll forming, and metal fabrication.

The hallmark of sheet metal fabrication is its use of thin metal sheets, typically 7mm thick or less, which are processed using a machine called a press brake equipped with a universal die.

Types of Bending Processes for Sheet Metals

Sheet metal bending techniques include the following:

1. Die Bending: This is the most common bending method, also known as V-bending, U-bending, or L-bending, depending on the shape of the die.

2. Air Bending: This method allows for adjusting the bending angle of V-bends by controlling the amount of punch penetration. It is also known as partial bending.

Bending processes involve placing the workpiece onto the die and applying pressure from above using a punch. Therefore, if the workpiece does not fully cover both ends of the die, bending cannot be achieved.

Additionally, detailed points to consider when modeling and designing sheet metal components are summarized below.

Conclusion

Bending involves applying force to deform and shape materials into curved or twisted forms. While metals and plastics are commonly processed industrially, wood is also utilized.

One common method for bending metal is sheet metal fabrication, where thin metal sheets are bent using a universal die and press brake.

In addition to bending processes, at meviy we also offer laser cutting and punching services. With our automated quoting and ordering system based on 3D data, you can easily obtain quotes and place orders online.