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Established for over 20 years
Aluminium Extrusion Bending UK
Aluminium section bending is the process of using specialist machinery to form an individual piece of aluminium into a different shape.
One of the key properties of aluminium is that it is malleable, meaning it can be bent into various shapes to accommodate a wide number of usage purposes. Aluminium can be used to create whole structures such as aluminium windows and door frames, or the aluminium piece can form only part of the total structure by being cut into specific sections, as is the case with aluminium section bending.
Here at Aluminium Bending Specialists, we offer aluminium section bending across a range of industries and project scales. Harnessing our innovation and curiosity for engineering that we’ve developed over the last 15 years in business, we can help you with all your aluminium section bending needs.
How To Bend Aluminium Sections
The first stage of the aluminium section bending process is to select the correct grade of aluminium, with a total of eight main aluminium series types to choose from. Each series has different properties, meaning some types of aluminium will be more suited to bending than others.
From there, the aluminium section will undergo either roll bending, mandrel bending or stretch bending so that it can be formed into its desired dimensions.
In-house tools can also be used to perfect the shape so that it meets the client’s requirements.
So give us a call on 01623 721 172 and let us help.
Where Aluminium Section Bending Is Used
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Aerospace
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Architectural
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Automotive
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Construction
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General engineering
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Interiors
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Marine
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Medical
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Office design and fit out
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Railway
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Windows & doors
Aluminium Bending Methods
Aluminium Extrusion Bending
As with any other type of aluminium, aluminium extrusions may also require bending into the desired shape. However, an important point to note is that the less stress an aluminium extrusion endures during the bending process, the greater the results will be. Therefore, a considered approach will be needed to ensure the modifications can be made without compromising the overall structure of the aluminium extrusion.
Aluminium Roll Bending
Roll bending is an extremely cost-efficient method of bending aluminium sections. It involves placing the aluminium section in between three bending rolls, which are adjusted so that the aluminium can be formed into the correct shape. The technique is incredibly versatile, even when the design is complex.
Aluminium Mandrel Bending
Mandrel bending is best suited to thin-walled profiles that may not withstand other forms of bending. Each aluminium section is fed through a machine that bends the aluminium into the correct shape. Mandrel bending produces fast and highly accurate results.
Aluminium Stretch Bending
Stretch bending uses a combination of force on either end of the material, with a bending mould in the middle that helps form the shape. The constant tension that is applied to the aluminium section reduces any deformation of the cross-section.
Stretch bending is ideal for any projects which have a high requirement for the profile’s surface quality, such as projects within the aviation or architectural industries.
Aluminium Profile Bending
Aluminum profiles are products formed from aluminum alloys. These components are transformed into a shaped objects through the extrusion process and can come in a range of textures, colour and brightness. Aluminium profiles are also often referred to as aluminium frames and is used within a growing number of manufacturing needs, including international space stations or in nuclear power plants.
What is aluminium section bending?
Aluminium section bending is a type of manufacturing process which involves forming pieces of aluminium into specific shapes or curves. The process is commonly used to produce large quantities of parts with consistent dimensions and tolerances. Though, its also possible to produce one-off pieces too. Some of the ways aluminium section bending is achieved include press bending, roll bending or hydraulic bending. For a more in depth explanation, have a read through our blog on what is aluminium section bending?
How does the bending process work?
Our engineers use a series of machines to bend aluminium into the required shape. The techniques will always be slightly different, as it depends on the series of the aluminium, it’s intended usage and the type of bend pattern that the client requires. Read more on our aluminium bending page.
Which aluminium is best for bending?
Aluminium alloys series 3003, 5052 and 6061 are generally considered the best for bending. As an example, series 6xxx is what we use to make our aluminium windows, as it offers superior strength yet we can bend it into any shape, including gothic arched windows! The key is to choose a series that is ideal for bending or indeed welding but will hold the shape it has been made into. On the other side of the coin, some types of aluminium are notoriously difficult to bend, making them unsuitable for projects that require a specific shape to be formed.
Are there any profile length restrictions?
Most of the time, if an aluminium profile is completely symmetrical then you should be able to bend it in its entirety. This is ideal because you’ll be able to completely utilise the section without the need to cut the straight part off of the end. If the section is asymmetrical, it’s likely that you won’t be able to create a uniform bend all the way along.
Aluminium Bending FAQs
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