How the process fits the part
Fixed-radius and variable-radius approaches suit different shapes and production needs. A bend can change the cross-section and wall distribution, so the design review should consider the result rather than only the centreline. The selected supplier must confirm the route for the actual material and geometry before manufacture.
Design decisions before manufacture
Identify straight lengths needed for gripping and later connections. Review close successive bends, section orientation and any seam position. Do not specify a tight radius simply because it can be drawn in CAD. If a tube carries fluid, assess how the final section and joints relate to the customer’s process requirement.
Inspect the finished result
Inspect the formed geometry against agreed references, including end orientation and interface position. Where section distortion matters, define how it will be checked. A first-piece review can establish the tooling and springback adjustment. The bend specification should distinguish visual fit from functional dimensional acceptance.
What to send for a quotation
Send the section dimensions, grade, radius, bend angles, quantity and connection details. Explain whether the part is structural, protective or part of a fluid route. QDM can incorporate a reviewed bending route into the mechanical design and coordinate manufacture, with any specialist process assessment scoped separately.
What to define for the project.
| Decision | What to define | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Section | Shape, wall and material | Defines the forming challenge |
| Radius | Fixed or variable requirement | Must suit the selected route |
| Straight ends | Gripping and joining length | Needed for production access |
| Orientation | Bend planes and end rotation | Controls assembly fit |
| Section condition | Permitted distortion | Needs an agreed inspection |
These notes support an initial engineering discussion. Material grades, manufacturing routes, dimensions and acceptance criteria are selected for the actual application and confirmed in the project specification.
Discuss the engineering scope
Choose the service that matches the next stage of your part, device or machine project.