Metal bending – also known as press braking – is a key part of our work here at Knees Engineering, but how much do you really know about it? In this article, we’ll answer key questions such as ‘what is sheet metal bending?’ and ‘which materials can be bent?’. We also take a look at how a press brake works, as well as the different types of metal bending techniques.
Looking for sheet metal bending services in Wiltshire? Call us on 01225 753 894 or send us an email to find out how we can help you and request a free quote.
What’s on this page
- What is sheet metal bending?
- Is sheet metal bending the same as metal forming?
- The metal bending process
- Which materials can be bent?
- Types of metal bending techniques
- Metal bending services in Wiltshire
What is sheet metal bending?
Metal bending is a manufacturing process in which force is applied to a metal workpiece to bend it to the required angle or required shape. Commonly performed using a tool called a press brake, metal bending is a key part of the metal fabrication process. It’s normally preceded by a cutting process such as laser cutting and is often followed by an assembly stage.
As we explain later, there are various methods of bending sheet metal including air bending, bottom bending and coining. An experienced engineer will choose the most appropriate bending technique to suit the particular project.
At Knees Engineering we have a range of Amada press brakes that are capable of producing high-quality and precise bends
Is sheet metal bending the same as metal forming?
The terms ‘metal bending’ and ‘metal forming’ are often used interchangeably, but they actually have slightly different meanings. Metal forming is the umbrella term for deforming a piece of metal to create a specific part or component. Metal bending, meanwhile, is a specific type of forming process. Other subdivisions of metal forming include techniques such as joining, folding and dividing.
The metal bending process
While bending sheet metal might seem relatively straightforward, it can actually be a relatively complex process. As a result, it requires a high degree of expertise, skills, precision and, of course, the right tools. The team at Knees Engineering are highly trained in CNC metal bending and our Wiltshire-based factory is equipped with a range of press brakes to enable us to meet your unique requirements.
How does it work?
Sheet metal bending is typically carried out using a machine known as a press brake, which consists of an upper tool called a punch and a lower tool called a die. When the sheet metal is pressed between the punch and the die, it’s forced to bend at an angle. The result is usually a ‘V’ or a ‘U’ shape bend. The precise angle of the bend is determined by the depth to which the punch forces the sheet metal into the die.
Although press brakes can be operated manually, most are now controlled via a computer. CNC technology enables the press brake to be programmed to create multiple, intricate and precise bends automatically within minutes, helping to speed up production times and minimise costs.
Which materials can be bent?
At Knees Engineering, we can bend a variety of sheet metals up to 12mm thick. These include:
- Mild steel
- Stainless steel
- Aluminium
- Brass
- Copper
We can also bend certain types of plastics, depending on your project requirements. If you have a material that’s difficult to bend or fold, we can work with you to suggest possible solutions.
Read more about our sheet metal bending services or get in touch to speak to a member of the team.
Types of metal bending techniques
When it comes to bending sheet metal, there are several methods you can use to achieve the desired result. The exact technique used will depend on a variety of factors unique to the project, such as the angle of the bend required and the type of material. Below are some of the most common metal bending techniques.
Air bending
The punch is driven into the die opening to create the bend, although only the top two corners of the V-die actually touch the material. The angle of the bend is determined by how far the punch descends into the die. One of the main advantages of air bending is that it requires less pressure to make the bend compared with other techniques, plus no retooling is necessary.
Bottom bending
During this technique, the punch and die are brought together so that the metal makes contact with the punch tip and the sidewalls of the V-opening. Bottom bending requires more pressure than air bending but it can create more accurate angles. However, as each bend radius requires a specific die, the process can be more complex and time-consuming than air bending.
Coining
Coining is a more basic bending technique in which an extreme amount of pressure is exerted to stamp the sheet metal between the punch and die. With enough weight, the metal conforms to the exact angle of the punch and die being used. While this method can create a very precise angle, the considerable tonnage required to achieve the bend means it’s less popular than air bending and bottom bending.
These are just a few of the methods that are used to bend sheet metal. Other techniques include folding, wiping, rotary bending and roll bending.
Metal bending services in Wiltshire
With a wealth of experience in sheet metal fabrication, we can provide high-quality and cost-effective metal bending and forming services to meet your business needs.
Our workshop has three press brakes including an Amada HD 1303 NT, an Amada HF 5012 T and an Amada HF EM 21003. So whatever your project specifications, we can bend and shape your desired parts with ease. You can find out more about our metal bending services on our website.
Knees Engineering is based in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, but we’re proud to offer our metal bending and sheet fabrication services throughout the UK.
If you have a sheet metal bending or metal forming project you’d like to discuss, simply drop us an email or call our team to discuss your requirements. And don’t forget to check out our technical news section for more metal fabrication information and insights.