According to fabricator steve benson there s a simple mathematical equation to determine a minimum and maximum bend radius for both sheet metal and aluminum and steel plates.
Fda sheet metal bend radius.
Since commercial sheet metal bending can be done with less concern for stresses caused during forming operation the radius can be near zero for thin sheet metal.
For aircraft and aerospace applications.
The inside bend radius should be equal to the thickness of the material that you re forming.
We recommend a minimum bend radius of 1t for all sheet metal parts.
When designing sheet metal parts and enclosures it is helpful to use these values as the basis for your design.
Bend radii minimum bend sizes.
In other words if you re bending 1 8 sheet use a tool with a 1 8 radius to form the inside of the bend.
It is most economical to use a single bend radius throughout the design but if necessary you can utilize multiple radii.
Grain direction is formed in metal in the direction in which the sheet was rolled at the.
Bend radii and minimum bends are limited to certain values or ranges which are determined by the equipment and tooling combinations available to the manufacturer.
Steel american iron and steel institute.
Preferred recommended 90 degree bend radii for various sheet metals.
Thus the smallest radius of any bend in a sheet should be at least equal to the thickness of the sheet.
Where necessary 5052 h32 may be bent to 1t and 6061 t6 to 1 1 2t.
Most fabricators of sheet metal parts will require a minimum bend radius on formed objects.
First we must start with the k factor.
For example if the thickness of the sheet is 1 mm the minimum bend radius should be 1 mm.
If you re bending 0 020 thick material use a 0 020 radius.
Divide 50 by the material s tensile reduction percentage.
If these guidelines are not followed more research and or some form of analysis may be requried.
Follow these steps in order.
Subtract 1 from that answer.
Use this document to choose values that are both manufacturable and meet your needs.
Sheet metal bend radii.