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Metal Bending

Expert sheet metal bending solutions for high-quality prototypes and production components. From simple bends to complex formed parts, TOUWEI delivers precise sheet metal bending with rapid DFM review and exceptional turnaround times.

What is Metal Bending?

Metal bending is a core fabrication process that reshapes sheet metal into precise angles or curves by applying mechanical force. This technique is vital for producing strong, accurate, and functional components used across a wide range of industries.

At TUOWEI Precision, we specialize in high-quality sheet metal bending services designed to meet both simple and complex project requirements. Our advanced electric and hydraulic press brakes deliver superior accuracy, ensuring consistent results even for parts with tight tolerances.

Beyond bending, we provide comprehensive post-processing solutions, ensuring your components are not only precisely formed but also ready for immediate use, whether in prototypes or end-use products.

How Does Metal Bending Work?

Metal bending is a fundamental fabrication technique used to reshape sheet metal into a desired angle or form by applying force through a press brake or similar equipment. This process enables the creation of V-shapes, U-shapes, channels, and other precise geometries along a straight line in the material.

The bending operation involves placing sheet metal between a punch and die set. As the punch presses the metal into the die, the material conforms to the die’s shape. Critical factors such as bend angle, bend radius, and applied force determine the final geometry, while the material’s thickness and ductility influence the bending conditions. Importantly, bending alters the form of the sheet without significantly changing its thickness.

We utilize both manual setups and advanced CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems. CNC bending technology ensures superior accuracy, repeatability, and the ability to create complex bends with minimal variation—ideal for both prototypes and high-volume production runs.

Metal Bending Capabilities

Tuowei provides precision metal bending services that combine advanced machinery and strict quality standards to handle a wide range of materials and part sizes. Our capabilities ensure accuracy, consistency, and efficiency for both prototypes and large-scale production.

Features Description
Maximum Part Size 1.5 m × 1.5 m
Metal Bending Forces Up to 1000 tons
Bending Line Length Up to 7200 mm
Bending Thickness Up to 60 mm
General Tolerances Based on ISO 2768. Bend to edge/hole, single surface: ±0.254 mm (±0.010 in.)
Bend Radius Equal to material thickness
Bend Angle ±1°
Bend Cutting Area Up to 4000 mm
Lead Time 5 days or more

Surface Finishes for Metal Bending

Surface finishes for metal bending parts enhance their strength, durability, and appearance, making them suitable for both functional and aesthetic applications.

As-Milled
A standard finish with visible tool marks; surface roughness ~125 µin Ra, ideal for functional applications where a smooth finish is not critical.
Bead Blasting
A process that creates a smooth, matte finish by propelling media (like glass beads) at the surface, improving texture and providing an aesthetically pleasing, uniform surface.
Powder Coating
This durable finish offers excellent resistance to wear, corrosion, and UV exposure.
Brushing
A linear, uniform grain texture is applied to parts, creating a satin-like finish.
Polishing
Achieves a high-gloss, mirror-like surface that enhances the visual quality of the part.
Black Oxide
Ideal for steel components, this dark, matte finish provides mild corrosion resistance while maintaining a high-quality appearance.

Advantages

Advantages of Bending Manufacturing

Metal bending manufacturing offers significant benefits, making it a critical process across multiple industries.

Applications

Applications of Bent Metal Parts

Bent metal components are versatile, transforming flat sheets into functional and durable parts suitable for a wide range of uses.

Let’s Build What’s Next Together

Partner with TUOWEI to Shape Your Vision

From detailed prototypes to high-volume production runs, TUOWEI is your trusted partner for precision CNC machining. Reach out today and take the first step toward streamlined, high-quality manufacturing solutions.

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Which Types of Metal Bending Are Common in Manufacturing?

Metal bending uses specialized techniques to shape metal with precision, meeting diverse manufacturing needs across industries.

Air Bending

Air bending is the most common method, where the punch presses the metal into a die without fully contacting the bottom. This creates flexibility in producing multiple angles with the same tooling. It requires less force than other methods, making it cost-efficient.

  • Best For: Versatile sheet metal projects with varied bend angles.

Bottoming (V-Bending)

In bottoming, the punch forces the metal to fully contact the bottom of the V-shaped die, resulting in high accuracy and reduced springback. However, it needs specific tooling for each angle, which can increase costs.

  • Best For: High-precision components requiring consistent angles.

Coining

Coining uses extreme pressure to stamp the bend angle into the metal, eliminating springback almost entirely. This method delivers exceptional accuracy but demands high-tonnage machines.

  • Best For: Aerospace and medical parts with critical tolerances.

Roll Bending

Roll bending shapes metal into large-radius curves or cylinders using a series of rollers. It is ideal for producing structural beams, enclosures, or curved panels.

  • Best For: Large-radius bends in sheet or plate metal.

Rotary Draw Bending

This technique bends metal, especially tubes and pipes, by drawing it around a fixed-radius die while maintaining dimensional accuracy. It’s widely used in the automotive and HVAC industries.

  • Best For: Tubular components with precise and repeatable curves.

Wipe Bending

Wipe bending involves clamping the sheet and bending it over a shaped edge, making it excellent for creating flanges and intricate profiles quickly.

  • Best For: Appliance panels and sheet profiles requiring speed and consistency.

How to Ensure High-Quality Metal Bending Results?

Getting flawless bends requires more than just the right tools is about technique, precision, and experience. Here’re some proven tips and tricks to achieve precise, consistent, and high-quality results in every metal bending project.

Select the Right Tooling

Choosing tooling that matches the metal type and thickness is the first step to precision. The wrong die or punch can cause deformation, poor angles, or uneven bends.

Perform Accurate Calculations

Correctly calculating bend allowance and bend deduction ensures the final part dimensions meet design requirements. Small calculation errors can lead to costly rework.

Leverage CNC Automation

CNC bending machines improve repeatability and reduce human error, especially in large production runs. Adjusting for springback during setup also maintains precise angles.

Ensure Rigorous Quality Checks

Use angle gauges for quick verification during production and laser measurement systems for micron-level accuracy in critical parts. Regular checks prevent defects from reaching later stages.

Pro Tips & Tricks

  • Warm metal slightly to reduce cracking in tight bends.
  • Test bends on scrap pieces before starting a full run.
  • Apply protective films to avoid surface scratches on finished parts.

Tuowei Proto's Solutions

Whether you’re creating a small batch of custom parts or scaling up for high-volume production, Tuowei Proto services offer the flexibility you need.

Rapid Prototyping

CNC rapid prototype machining is perfect for creating engineering or production prototypes that closely resemble the final product in both appearance and functionality. At Tuowei, we offer instant quotes and fast delivery, providing you with precise, high-quality CNC machined prototypes for your needs.

Low Volume Manufacturing

Low volume CNC machining often acts as a bridge between prototyping and mass production for new and emerging production. With Tuowei, this process becomes easier, more efficient, and cost-effective, allowing you to scale production quickly while maintaining high-quality standards.

End-use Production

CNC production machining is the best solution for producing a thousand parts or more efficiently. Leveraging a diverse selection of materials and automation and multi-axis capabilities, Tuowei delivers high-volume production with tight tolerances, superior dimensional accuracy, high reliability and fast turnaround times.

Explore Insights & Innovation

Stay ahead with expert tips, industry trends, and precision manufacturing insights from the team at Tuowei. Read our latest blogs to gain valuable knowledge and discover how we’re shaping the future of CNC production.

Get In Touch With Us!
Prompt response guaranteed within 12 hours
🔐 All uploads are secure and confidential