Understanding the process of steel folding
A key stage in the fabrication process, sheet metal folding sees a cut piece of high-quality steel bent into the shape required for manufacturing the finished product. The importance of this step, also known as bending, calls for care, attention, and special equipment. Take a closer look at what folded steel is and learn more about the process and the benefits it offers.
The purpose of sheet metal folding is to quickly form large pieces of steel into a bespoke shape using robust machinery. It would be impossible to create the right shape without this process.
Methods such as brake pressing, manual folding, and roll forming are used to fabricate a range of folded steel sections such as beams, joists, and parallel flange channels. Brake pressing and roll forming require specialised machinery, while manual folding usually is done by hand with a bending tool.
When it comes to how to fold metal such as steel, the important thing to remember is that you need to apply enough force to exceed the strength of the metal. You can do this by hand, heating the metal to soften it before using a folding tool to shape it. However, this can be difficult, time-consuming work that requires training and skill.
The most common way to manufacture folded steel sections is to use a press brake. This piece of machinery works by lowering a punch (also known as a knife) onto a metal sheet that has been positioned carefully on a V-shaped die. This process may need to be repeated several times to create the desired shape.
Looking for reliable steel folding services? At IMS, our team of highly skilled engineers use Edward Pearson PR 320x4200 press brakes to fold steel and other metals into the exact shapes you need for your project.
Sheet metal folding offers numerous benefits. The most significant of these include accuracy, efficiency, and strength. Let’s explore these in more detail:
• Accuracy: By using calculated pressure levels, tight angles, and premium machinery, it’s possible to produce a wide variety of complex, intricate folded steel sections with accurate measurements.
• Efficiency: Thanks to the capabilities of the most reliable press brakes and other machinery, as well as to the skills and expertise of the engineers who operate them, folding metal up to 3,000mm in length can be done quickly and efficiently so that you can stay on track with your project timelines.
• Strength: By now, you might be wondering, “Does folding steel make it stronger?” The answer is a resounding “Yes.” During the folding process, loose impurities in the steel dislocated before being realigned by snapping back into a lattice-like structure. This creates a more uniform, stronger, and tougher metal composition.
Given the importance of sheet metal folding in a wide variety of industries, the process needs to be done accurately and professionally the first time around. Entrust your steel folding needs to IMS. Contact us for more information or for a quote.
