Bend deductions
Bend deductions are used to calculate the developed length[1] of a sheet metal part. It is required to accurately produce parts with the correct dimensions after bending.
Bend deductions account for the material stretch and compression that occurs during the bending process. By using bend deductions, Flux can adjust the flat pattern length to ensure that the final bent part meets the specified dimensions.
Bend deductions can vary based on factors such as material type, thickness, bend radius, and bending method.
When a 3D part is imported into Flux, the software automatically calculates the bend deductions based on the part’s geometry and material properties. You can also manually adjust the bend deductions if needed to fine-tune the flat pattern length.
Bend deduction settings
Custom bend deductions can be set in the Bend Deductions database. To access, click on the database icon and select Bend Deductions.
You can Add a new bend deduction scenario or select an existing scenario to Edit or Delete it. You can also Copy an existing scenario to create a new one with similar settings.
Click Add to create a new bend deduction scenario. Select and type in the following parameters:
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Material: Select the material for which the bend deductions apply.
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Thickness: Set the thickness of the sheet for which the bend deductions apply.
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Punch radius: Set the upper tool radius for which the bend deductions apply.
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V-width type: Choose the type of V-width measurement used.
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Die V-width: Set the lower tool width for which the bend deductions apply.
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Die radius: Set the lower tool radius for which the bend deductions apply.
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Die angle: Set the lower tool angle for which the bend deductions apply.
Click OK to save the new scenario.
In addition to this, select a bend deduction scenario and click the … option to see further options:
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Graph: Displays a graph showing the relationship between bend angle and bend deduction. This visual representation helps to understand how bend deductions change with different bend angles. Move the cursor over the graph’s blue and red lines to see specific values.
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Import: Allows you to import bend deduction data from an external CSV file.
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Export: Enables you to export the current bend deduction data to a CSV file for backup or sharing purposes.
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3rd party: Provides options to import bend deduction data from third-party software or sources.
Bend deduction types
Flux supports three types of bend deductions: Air Bending, Folding, and Coining.
Each type has its own set of parameters and calculations to accurately determine the bend deductions based on the bending method used.
Air Bending
Air bending is a common bending method where the sheet metal is bent using a punch and die without fully closing the die. This method allows for more flexibility and is suitable for a wide range of materials and thicknesses.
To add bend deductions for air bending, select a suitable scenario from the Bend Deductions database. Click Add to create a new air bending deduction scenario and type in the Bend Angle.
As you input the bend angle, the corresponding Deduction (Edge), Deduction (Tangent), and Inner Radius values will be calculated and displayed.
Click OK to save the new air bending deduction.
Folding
Folding or Hemming is a bending method where the sheet metal is bent using a punch and die that fully closes, creating a sharp bend. This method is often used for thinner materials and requires precise control of bend deductions.
To add bend deductions for folding, select a suitable scenario from the Bend Deductions database. Click Add to create a new folding deduction scenario and select the Hemming method.
Click OK to save the new folding deduction.
Coining
Coining is a bending method where the sheet metal is pressed between a punch and die with high pressure, resulting in a precise and sharp bend. This method is typically used for thicker materials and requires accurate bend deductions.
To add bend deductions for coining, select a suitable scenario from the Bend Deductions database. Click Add to create a new coining deduction scenario.
Click OK to save the new coining deduction.