Aluminum Tube Bending Types

In our previous post, we talked about the basic properties of aluminum alloys and how to identify them. While pure aluminum is generally the easiest type of aluminum to bend and form, there are some alloys that are better for aluminum tube bending.

Aluminum Tube Bending Characteristics to Consider

When determining whether a particular alloy is right for aluminum tube bending, the following factors should be considered:

1. Formability

There are certain alloys which have a higher degree of formability than others, which makes them a better fit for the aluminum tube bending process. Often, the higher the formability of the alloy, the lower the strength, but having one doesn’t always mean compromising the other. We’ll talk about which alloys are specifically better for forming and bending shortly.

2. Thickness and Bend Radius

Another important factor to consider during the aluminum tube bending process is the thickness and bend radius of the alloy. As with any sheet metal, aluminum “work-hardens” during the forming process, which means that it gets stronger and harder during the bending process. If the radius is small or sharp compared with the thickness of the material being bent, then the material will be overworked and more susceptible to failing.

If a radius is bent lower than the recommended minimums based on the alloy type, it may compromise the integrity of the part, in addition to voiding warranties issued by the supplier. Therefore, when forming aluminum, it’s critical to adhere to where a range is listed, it is recommended that when using the smaller radius, extreme caution is taken.

3. Percentage of Elongation

The percentage of elongation is another important factor to consider when aluminum tube bending, and refers to the difference between a material’s yield strength and its ultimate tensile strength. Yield strength refers to the point at which an aluminum alloy is bent and no longer returns to its original shape. Tensile strength refers to the total amount of stress that can be applied to a material before it breaks. The greater the difference between the two, the better the alloy formability will be.

Best Aluminum Alloys for Bending

In addition to pure aluminum (Series 1xxx), Series 3xxx, 5xxx and 6xxx are considered best for forming and bending. Within each series the following alloys are considered exceptionally great for bending, for various reasons:

1. Series 3003, a non-heat treatable alloy, is a great solution for various applications, as it a relatively strong alloy, has high cold workability, and a high percentage of elongation (25%).

2. Series 5052 is another great non-heat treatable alloy to use in bending projects, which is almost as good as Series 3003. It is highly corrosion resistant, is the strongest non-heat treatable alloys, and is has excellent formability.

3. Series 6061, a heat treatable alloy that is often used for bending, as it has the potential for high tensile strength as well as a high elongation percentage.

Series 7xxx and 2xxx series alloys, on the other hand,  are not recommended for tube bending projects, as they are the strongest series, which makes them difficult to bend and form.

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