Minimum flange length
As a rule of thumb, make flanges at least 4 times the material thickness so the part can sit across the die. Shorter flanges may need special tooling or a different design.
Hole-to-bend distance
Keep holes at least 2.5 times the material thickness plus the inside bend radius away from a bend line, or they will stretch into ovals. FoxQuote flags holes too close to a bend.
Bend radius
An inside bend radius about equal to the material thickness is a safe default for steel. Harder alloys such as 6061-T6 aluminum need larger radii.
Bend relief
Where a bend meets an edge or another bend, add a relief cut about the material thickness wide so the corner doesn't tear.
K-factor and flat patterns
Flat patterns depend on the K-factor, typically about 0.33–0.45 for air bending. We unfold your model with our own tooling values so the formed part matches your print.
Bend direction
Show bend direction (up or down) and angle on your drawing. FoxQuote reads drawing notes and asks you to confirm.
So, what do you want to build?
Send a model, a drawing or a napkin sketch. We'll price the part, the program or the whole product.