K-Factor Calculator

Bending Parameters

Thickness of the material being bent
Type of material being bent
Inside radius of the bend
Angle of the bend in degrees

Calculation Results

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K-Factor Calculator: Your Complete Guide to Sheet Metal Bending

Accurately calculating the K-factor is essential for sheet metal fabricators, engineers, and designers. Our K-Factor Calculator helps you determine the neutral axis position in sheet metal bending operations.

Understanding K-Factor Calculations

Proper K-factor calculation is crucial for several reasons:

  • Accuracy: Ensures precise bend allowances
  • Efficiency: Reduces material waste
  • Quality: Maintains dimensional accuracy
  • Cost: Optimizes material usage
  • Design: Improves part manufacturability

How to Use the K-Factor Calculator

  1. Enter Material Thickness: Input the sheet thickness
  2. Select Material Type: Choose the material being bent
  3. Enter Bend Radius: Specify the inside radius
  4. Enter Bend Angle: Input the bend angle
  5. Click Calculate: Get the K-factor and related values

K-Factor Calculation Formulas

Basic K-Factor Formula:
K-Factor = (t × (1 - cos(θ/2))) / (2 × r)
Where:
t = Material thickness
θ = Bend angle in degrees
r = Inside bend radius

Common Material Properties

  • Mild Steel:
    • Typical K-Factor: 0.33-0.5
    • Good formability
    • Common in general fabrication
  • Stainless Steel:
    • Typical K-Factor: 0.35-0.45
    • Higher springback
    • Requires more force
  • Aluminum:
    • Typical K-Factor: 0.33-0.45
    • Lower force required
    • Good formability
  • Copper:
    • Typical K-Factor: 0.35-0.45
    • Excellent formability
    • Lower force needed

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Mild Steel Bending

Material Thickness: 2mm
Material Type: Mild Steel
Bend Radius: 4mm
Bend Angle: 90°
Results:
- K-Factor: 0.42
- Bend Allowance: 3.42mm
- Bend Deduction: 1.58mm
- Neutral Axis: 0.84mm

Example 2: Aluminum Bending

Material Thickness: 1.5mm
Material Type: Aluminum
Bend Radius: 3mm
Bend Angle: 45°
Results:
- K-Factor: 0.38
- Bend Allowance: 1.98mm
- Bend Deduction: 0.52mm
- Neutral Axis: 0.57mm

Frequently Asked Questions

What affects the K-factor?
K-factor depends on material type, thickness, bend radius, and bend angle. Different materials and thicknesses require different K-factors.
How do I choose the right bend radius?
Consider material thickness, type, and required bend angle. Thicker materials typically need larger radii to prevent cracking.
What is springback?
Springback is the tendency of metal to return partially to its original shape after bending. It must be compensated for in the bending process.
How do I compensate for springback?
Overbend the material slightly, use proper tooling, and consider material properties. Different materials require different compensation methods.
What safety considerations are important?
Use proper safety equipment, maintain machine guards, follow safety protocols, and ensure proper tool handling during bending operations.

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