Sheet Metal Worker how-to
How to Bend Sheet Metal on a Brake
Accurate bends make fittings that go together without force.
Quick answer
Accurate bends make fittings that go together without force. In short: mark; set; align, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Mark bend lines on the flat pattern.
Set the brake for the metal gauge.
Align the bend line with the clamping bar edge.
Clamp the sheet firmly.
Lift the bending leaf to the desired angle, allowing for springback.
Release and check the angle with a protractor or square.
Safety reminders for sheet metal workers
- Wear cut-resistant gloves and handle metal edges carefully
- Use hearing and eye protection around machinery
- Follow ladder, lift and fall protection rules
- Lock out machines before clearing jams or changing tooling
Key terms
Gauge · Pattern layout · Brake · Pittsburgh lock · S-and-drive · Takeoff: see the full sheet metal worker glossary.