Steel Bending 101: Techniques for Strength and Precision

Steel bending is a metal fabrication technique used in multiple industries to bend metal sheets at a desired angle to form shapes without cutting or welding them. It might sound like a simple operation, but metal bending requires expertise and the right machines to achieve precision, aesthetics, and strength. In this blog, you will learn about sheet metal bending, the process, how precision is achieved, and why one must hire only reputed, reliable, and professional sheet metal bending services in Albuquerque. Read on!

What is Steel Bending?

As the name suggests, sheet metal bending refers to the process of deforming sheet metal in various shapes and angles. It is also known as brake forming or press braking. The process typically involves placing the metal sheet between a punch and a die and then applying force to deform the metal along a specific axis. The shape desired, material thickness, bend radius, and other factors determine the bending angle.

 Techniques for Metal Bending

There are multiple bending techniques that can be used to deform sheet metal. These are discussed here:

Air Bending

A punch and die is used in air bending to deform the metal. The sheet metal is pressed between the two without bottoming out the metal. The operator achieves the depth of the bend here and, thus, can achieve multiple angles through it.

Bottoming Bending

In bottoming, the punch shall press the sheet metal into the cavity completely, resulting in a sharp bend with a precise angle. This technique is useful when specific angles are desired.

Folding

Folding is a bending technique for creating boxes, flangs, and other shapes. No punch and die are used; instead, the metal is bent along a straight line. It is quick and cost-effective.

Roll Bending

In roll bending, sheet metal is passed through a series of rollers, which provide it with the desired shape and angle, especially circular and cylindrical. Roll bending is popular in creating tubes, pipes, and other components.

V-Bending

V-bending is another type of bottoming, with a bottom shaped like a V. The punch presses the sheet metal until it makes a V–shaped shape. When a certain specific V shape is required, V-bending is used.

Incremental Bending

Incremental bending creates intricate shapes by bending sheet metal in small increments. The sheet is bent and adjusted, and it is repeated until the desired shape is obtained.

Precision in Metal Bending

The fusion of certain essential factors obtains precision in metal bending. These are discussed below:

• Selecting the right tool and machine is the first step towards achieving accurate bend angles and dimensions.
• Handling and positioning of the metal sheet must be precise to ensure consistent bend locations and angles throughout the bending process.
• Bend allowance calculation is required to determine accurate bend radius and bend angle.
• Skilled professionals are at the helm of achieving accurately bent shapes. Their expertise ensures the correct bends, from material to preparation, machine handling, and operation handling.

Strength and Durability in Steel Bending

Implementing quality control policies in steel bending achieves strength and durability. The first step is to select quality material and learn its properties to determine its bend allowance effectively. Uniform bending must be ensured for stress distribution throughout the bend radius to help achieve smooth bends.

Sheet metals also require post-bending treatments, such as stress relieving or annealing, to improve their mechanical properties.

Choosing the Right Metal Bending Services in Albuquerque

Whether outsourcing metal bending services in Albuquerque for industrial projects or seeking a professional for your DIY needs, keep these factors in mind to make the right decision. Check these out:

Capabilities and Expertise

Learn about the capabilities and expertise of the service provider. Check out their record of providing metal bending services, the machines they house, and the range of services they offer.

Quality Assurance

The service provider must offer quality assurance to meet industry standards and project specifications. Although it is easier to find metal bending service providers, it is rare to find one who offers quality. Thus, choose New Mexico Metals LLC for quality metal bending.

Turnaround Time

Time is of utmost importance in the metal fabrication industry. Consider the provider’s lead times and turnaround times for completing bending projects, ensuring timely delivery of finished parts to meet your production schedule and deadlines.

Conclusion

The blog has covered the most important points about metal bending, including the different techniques, how to achieve precision and ensure strength and durability in metal bending, and how to choose the right metal bending service provider in Albuquerque.

At New Mexico Metals LLC, we use the Chicago Mechanical Brake and Baileigh Magnetic Brake to ensure the success of our projects and the durability of our finished products. We have a talented team of professionals, advanced machines, and a commitment to deliver the promise of quality.

Contact us today for our expert metal bending services in Albuquerque.