13mm Width x 3mm Thick Plain Flat Bar Steel Solid Section

How Do I Bend Flat Bar Steel Into A Circle?

Bending a flat bar steel into a circle can be accomplished through a process known as cold bending or cold forming. Here’s a general procedure to follow:

1. Prepare the necessary tools and equipment: As part of the process, you will need a sturdy bench or surface, a vice or clamps to secure the flat bar, a bending jig (if you have one), a mallet or hammer, and safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection.

2. Determine the desired diameter: Measure the diameter or circumference of the circle you want to create. This will help you determine the length of the flat bar needed and guide the bending process.

3. Mark the flat bar: Using the circumference of the circle as a guide, measure and mark the length of the flat bar according to the circumference of the circle. It is important to ensure that the bar has sufficient length to accommodate any overlap that may be required during the bending process.

4. Secure the flat bar: In order to secure the flat bar to a sturdy workbench or surface, use a vice or clamps to secure one end of the flat bar to the surface. It is important that it is held firmly in place, so that the other end can be bent without being restricted.

5. Begin bending: Applying gradual pressure to the free end of the flat bar will help you bend it into a circle. You can do this by pushing or pulling the bar by hand, using a bending jig, or by gently striking it with a mallet or hammer while supporting the other end.

6. Work progressively: As you bend the flat bar, you should start from one end and move along its length gradually. If you want to prevent creating kinks or uneven bends, you need to apply force evenly and work in small increments. Once the flat bar has been bent to the desired shape, continue bending until the desired circle shape has been achieved.

7. Secure the shape: Once you have bent the flat bar into a circle, you can secure it in place using clamps or welding for added strength. This will help it hold its shape and stop any unwanted movement or distortion. 

8. Check the shape: In order to ensure that your circles are formed according to your desired specifications, you should periodically measure the diameter or circumference of the circles you are forming. If any adjustments need to be made during the process of bending, they should be done.

9. Finishing touches: The next step is to check the overall alignment and straightness of the bar once you have achieved the desired circle shape. You may need to make minor adjustments to make the circle uniform and even if necessary. Use a mallet or hammer if necessary to do so.

The ease at which the flat bar will be bent will depend on both the thickness of the flat bar as well as the material used for the flat bar. When it comes to thicker and stronger materials, more force may be required, as well as specialised bending equipment.

How do you Measure the Thickness of a Flat Bar Steel Strip?

Measuring the thickness of a flat bar steel strip is a straightforward process.

1. Visual Inspection: First, ensure that the steel strip is free of any obvious deformities, bumps or dents that could affect the measurement.

2. Clean the Surface: Wipe away any dirt, oil or debris from the surface of the flat bar steel strip to get an accurate measurement.

3. Use a Micrometer:

   • Open the jaws of the micrometer by turning the thimble.
   • Place the steel strip between the jaws.
   • Gently turn the thimble to close the jaws until they touch the steel strip without applying excessive force.
   • Read the measurement on the micrometer’s scale. A micrometer provides very accurate measurements, often to the nearest 0.01mm or 0.001 inches.
   • Make sure to measure at multiple points along the strip’s length, especially if you suspect variations in thickness.

4. Alternatively, Use Calipers:

   • Open the caliper jaws and place the steel strip between them.
   • Close the jaws until they touch the steel strip.
   • Read the measurement on the caliper’s scale. While not as precise as a micrometer, calipers can still provide relatively accurate measurements.
   • As with the micrometer, consider measuring at several points along the strip to ensure consistency.

5. Thickness Gauge: Another option is to use a thickness gauge, which can quickly measure thickness at various points along the steel strip.

6. Check Manufacturer’s Specifications: If the steel strip was manufactured to certain specifications, the manufacturer may have documentation or labels indicating the thickness. This can be a quick way to verify your measurements.

7. Regular Calibration: It’s crucial to ensure that your measuring tools, like micrometers or calipers, are regularly calibrated to guarantee their accuracy.