Aluminum has the flexibility to be formed into any shape the manufacturer wants. Bending is a common practice in shaping aluminum. Although, it’s important to understand that some alloys bend better than others.

We produce multiple designs for our clients. That requires creativity and aluminum gives us the freedom to execute that. The design flexibility it offers is out of this world.

Bending is also done in multiple ways including:

  • Roller bending
  • Press
  • Draw
  • Stretch bending

We ensure that the alloys and tempers match the bending technique for a successful bend.

Matching Bending Techniques to Alloys/Tempers

You need a proper balance between alloys and bending techniques. Below are some of the factors we consider when bending aluminum tube.

  • Formability

Stronger aluminum metal alloys/tempers offer more resistance to bending. This is a result of the indirect proportionality between elongation and strength.

  • Thickness and bend radius

The bending process has a lasting impact on aluminum. The process strengthens aluminum and hardens it at the same time. Thicker Aluminum tube is likely to bend less but will regain strength. Before proceeding with bending, we must ascertain that the thickness can withstand the force without breakage.

Bending introduces extra force on the aluminum tube. Once the thickness of the tube accommodates the extra force, bending can be executed successfully. On the other hand, breakage will happen if the force is too much. For that reason, we ensure that the thickness has enough power to withstand the bend we want to achieve.

  • Elongation Rate

When bending aluminum tube, the outer diameter is stretched. There are limits to the elongation and we ensure that the limit is not exceeded when bending a tube. As a result, we make properly bent aluminum tubes.