The K Factor For Bending Sheet Metal

In sheet metal design the k factor is used to calculate how much sheet metal one needs to leave for the bend in order to achieve particular final dimensions especially for between the straight sides next the bend.

The k factor for bending sheet metal.

Types of metal bends and forming methods bending and bend formation are important factors when it comes to calculating bend deduction which is the total elongation for a particular type of bend. If you gain the correct k factor your precise bending will be ensured. I had a question on k factors for our 3 d modeling software. It s the base value needed to calculate bend allowances ba and ultimately the bend deduction bd.

When you bend sheet metal the neutral axis shifts toward the inside surface of the bend. The factor offsets the neutral line piece in the bend region from its center path until it has the length of the corresponding region of the flat pattern. Sheet metal bending methods design tips k factor bending is one of the most common sheet metal fabrication operations. Use the known k factor and the known inner bending radius to calculate the bending radius of the neutral line.

It seems the most basic value while calculating bending allowance ba and bending deductions bd. K factor plays a key role in understanding the limits a material can handle during sheet metal bending. K factor in sheet metal bending is a constant used to calculate sheet metal flat length or flat pattern. Also known as press braking flanging die bending folding and edging this method is used to deform a material to an angular shape.

Of all the mathematical constants in precision sheet metal fabrication the k factor stands out. Our design engineers typically use a factor of 0 4 for our air formed press brake parts. The k factor is the ratio of the neutral axis location t to the material thickness mt. You could say it s the roux of the precision bending gumbo.

Mathematically k factor value is equal to the ratio of position of neutral axis and sheet thickness. In this article we will discuss sheetmetal bend deduction bend allowance k factor y factor and sheet metal flat pattern calculations. Get the roux right and you re on your way to making a tasty meal.