Selecting a Die for Bending Projects

Selecting a die for a bending project depends on several factors, including the type of material you are bending, the bending process you are using (such as press brake bending, tube bending, etc.), the radius of the bend, the thickness of the material, and the design of the part. Here’s a general guide to help you select a die for your bending project:

Material Type

Different materials require different dies to avoid damage during the bending process. For instance, softer materials like aluminum might need wider dies to prevent marking, whereas harder materials like steel can be formed with narrower dies.

Inside Radius

The inside radius of the bend is a crucial factor:

• The die opening generally determines the inside radius of the bend.
• A smaller V-die opening produces a smaller inside bend radius.
• For bottoming or coining, the radius of the die should match the desired inside radius of the bend.

Material Thickness

Thicker material requires a larger die opening to bend. If the die opening is too small, it can result in excessive wear on the tooling or even damage to the press brake. If it's too large, it can compromise the bend angle accuracy.

Length of the Bend

Long bends require a die with a length that can accommodate the entire bend. Also, the tonnage of the press brake needs to be sufficient for the length of the bend.

Die Angle

The angle of the die should be less than the angle you are planning to bend the metal because the metal  can spring back slightly after bending. The greater the difference, the more springback that must be considered in the bending process.

Manufacturing Specifications

For any bend, it must take into consideration the specifications when selecting a die. The machine’s capabilities and limitations should be your primary guide.

Test Bends

To ensure the bending process works as planned, perform test bends to validate the die selection. This will ensure the right tools are used and specification is met before running the actual project. This approach of creating a test bend can save time and material by ensuring that the setup is correct.

Selecting the right die is critical for achieving the desired bend quality and for protecting your equipment. If you are unsure about the correct die selection, you can consult with our team to provide valuable insight based on their experience with different materials and bending scenarios.