Bending Problems

Section Distortion

Sections do change their shape when curving. If they are curved within the recommended minimum diameter, no change in mechanical properties that would affect the strength of the section will occur. The effects of bending are different on every shape of section. The severity will depend on the radius / diameter the section is curved to.

Section Marking

As with section distortion, the severity will depend on the radius / diameter the section is curved to. Aluminium being softer tends to mark easily as does pre-painted sections which may need touching up in areas.

Polished sections

It is recommended that sections are polished after bending due to roll marking. Sections pre-polished may have to be re-polished. Even though bending rolls are cleaned prior to bending stainless steel as forming is done in a carbon steel environment there is a risk of carbon contamination. Poly coating will reduce this risk.

Prior notification

If the appearance of the final curves is critical and the quality of the finish is more important than that normally associated with structural steelwork then we should be notified at the enquiry stage.