Bend radius for steel rod

[TeejT]

I want to create a 90 degree bend in steel rod (1/2"). How do I determine a reasonable bend radius, meaning doable by most fab/machine shops and not destroying the rod?
I'm guessing the answer is ~ 1/2" - 1" but that's a guess.
Thank you!

 

[desertfox]

Hi TeejT

Depending on steel grade 1/2" would be a minimum but I would make it as large as possible for your application.

desertfox

 

[TJOrlowski]

3/4" Centerline radius would be plenty big for any shop worth its salt. Depending on the steel grade, 1/2" CLR would also work, but would depend on tooling availability.

A general rule of thumb for most materials is to make the radius on bends of round tube/pipe/rod at least 1.5x the OD.

The smaller you make your radius, the more pressure put on the piece during forming, and the more pressure required for the grip to hold the piece in place (which could give the appearance of a slight bubble on the inside). Not likely for 1/2" steel rod, but possible.

-TJ Orlowski

 

[bithkits]

Surely the rate/speed of bending during the bending process also comes into play? (thinking along the lines of work hardening and fatigue issues that may arise)

Correct me if I am wrong!

Adriaan.
I am an Engineer/part time student (Mechatronics) from South Africa.
Advice from lecturer: "Be warned - when you go into industry your boss will give you a thousand things to do and he wants them done yesterday!" So far he is right...