Everything about bent parts: bending, manufacturing and edged parts
Bent parts are indispensable components used in numerous industries, from automotive through construction to electrical engineering. But what exactly are bent parts, how are they manufactured, and what should you pay attention to? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know to plan, order and use high-quality bent parts.
What are bent parts and how are they manufactured?
Definition and fields of application of bent parts
Bent parts are components made of metal, films and laminates that are brought into a desired shape through targeted deformation. They are used wherever materials with precise bends are required, for example in housings, brackets, cladding or fastening parts.
Which materials are used for bent parts?
Typical materials for bent parts are:
- Stainless steel: for corrosion-resistant applications
- Steel: robust and versatile
- Aluminium: light and ideal for aerospace
- Copper and brass: for electrical applications or decorative purposes
- Films: for electrical and mechanical applications
- Sheet insulation materials: for the insulation of generators and transformers
What does the manufacturing process for bent parts look like?
How does bending work?
During bending, the material is placed between a die and an upper tool (often a punch) and formed with high pressing force. This process can be carried out manually or automatically.
Which bending processes exist?
- Free bending: flexible but with limited precision.
- Die bending: highest precision through complete pressing into the die.
- Folding: particularly suitable for longer workpieces.
What must be considered when bending materials?
- Minimum distances and bending radii: depending on material thickness and the process used.
- Material properties: hardness, elasticity and thickness influence bendability.
How is the bending angle calculated?
The bending angle depends on the pressing force, the material thickness and the tool geometry. Modern CAD software simplifies calculation and planning.
How can I order bent parts online?
Where do I find suppliers for bent parts?
Platforms such as GOBA and specialised manufacturing companies offer the possibility to configure and order bent parts individually.
What is an individual quotation for bent parts?
An individual quotation takes specific requirements into account, such as:
- Desired shape and bends
- Tolerances and precision
- Additional work
What challenges exist in bending and folding?
How do I avoid distortion during bending?
- Relief cuts: prevent stress in the material.
- Correct tool choice: adapted dies and punches minimise deformations.
What are minimum distances and bending radii?
Minimum distances define the distance between two bends to avoid damage to the material. The bending radius should be at least equal to the material thickness to avoid cracks.
How does material thickness influence bending?
The thicker the material, the greater the required pressing force and bending radius.
How can I ensure the precision of my bent parts?
Which tolerances are important in the manufacturing of bent parts?
Tolerances define the permissible deviations in dimensions and angles. Usual tolerances for bent parts are +/- 0.5 mm.
How can I check the quality of my bent parts?
- Measuring equipment: precise tools for checking dimensions and angles.
- Optical inspection: for checking edges and surfaces.
- Tests: load tests to check the stability of the bends.
What are relief cuts and why are they important?
Relief cuts prevent stresses and cracks in complex components. They are placed at strategic positions to relieve the material during bending.
GOBA Takeaway
Bent parts are essential components manufactured with the highest precision and most modern technologies. From bending and folding through to laser cutting, specialised providers offer flexible and tailored solutions. With proper planning, high-quality materials and experienced partners, bent parts of the highest quality can be realised.