Pivotal construction works led by McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) are progressing well for Phase 1B of the prominent industrial and distribution hub, Horizon 29, in Bolsover, Derbyshire. Located one mile from Junction 29A of the M1, Horizon 29 is a new landmark distribution development, which once complete will span
Analysis by peer to peer real estate investment platform, easyMoney, has revealed that when it comes to the returns currently being seen across the British property market, it’s commercial property that is providing the stronger yields when compared to the average yield available via the residential sector. easyMoney analysed the
Thames Water has appointed Barhale to its newly-established framework for Waste Network Services. The civil engineering and infrastructure specialist will provide reactive, planned and proactive maintenance services under the £139M Lot 5 of the framework which runs for a minimum of five years with an option to extend for a
Young people from a wide range of backgrounds in South London are being encouraged to become construction apprentices in a bid to fill the vacancies at sites across the city. Thousands of roles need to be filled at building sites across London as research shows more than 4,000 jobs will
ONE of the main factors preventing the UK from delivering large-scale housing effectively is that housebuilders are not fully equipped to fulfil the role of ‘master developer’ due to lack of up-front funding, according to the managing director of one of the country’s leading project management consultancies. Jonathon Bentley, who
Amit Oberoi has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the Considerate Constructors Scheme – the organisation which works with the construction industry to improve its image – to help raise its standards and build public trust in construction. Amit takes on this role with effect from 1 March 2023,
Wirral Council has approved plans to build The Maritime Knowledge Hub at Peel L&P’s Wirral Waters. The Hub will be a high-level industrial and maritime facility, supporting the region’s £5 billion maritime ecosystem where research and innovation will focus on making the most of the incredible opportunities that decarbonisation of
Accelerating investment in energy efficiency is essential if the UK’s commercial property sector is to meet the strengthened Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) that come into force on 1 April, says lighting manufacturer Tamlite Lighting. Introduced eight years ago, the MEES legislation stated that property owners or landlords could not
A consultation has launched over plans to develop a sustainable housing scheme and new public parkland at land west of Elton Reservoir in Bury. Residents of Radcliffe and Bury are being asked for their feedback on Peel L&P’s proposals which include new open spaces and parkland with leisure and nature
Sheet metal bending is a process that involves shaping metal sheets into various forms using different tools and techniques. Sheet metal bending can be done for a variety of reasons, such as manufacturing parts, constructing structures, or even for decorative purposes. In this article, we’ll Hitherbest sheet metal fabrications have
Pivotal construction works led by McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) are progressing well for Phase 1B of the prominent industrial and distribution hub, Horizon 29, in Bolsover, Derbyshire. Located one mile from Junction 29A of the M1, Horizon 29 is a new landmark distribution development, which once complete will span 1,150,256 sq. ft and have a total of eight warehouses, delivered over three phases. McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) commenced construction on Phase 1B in November and will be delivering design and construction work on two new speculative builds (Units 4 and 5), with extensive ground remediation works to stabilise the former coal site, which will complete this summer. Works delivered to date for Unit 4 of Phase 1B include earthworks and VSC piling, concrete foundations and steel framing alongside lift shaft and stair installations. The installation of nets for roofing works and office elevation cladding are due to complete this month. Earthworks are also complete for Unit 5 and concrete foundations have commenced alongside the construction of steel framing. CMC piling is also due to be finished this month. The contractor is also in the process of constructing two single storey distribution warehouses for P1A (Units 1 and 2), which are due for completion in April, and all units at Horizon 29 will be constructed to a BREEAM Rating of ‘Excellent’ with an EPC ‘A’ Rating. Sustainable features of the industrial and development hub include solar PVs, air source heat pumps, enhanced cladding, responsibly sourced sustainable materials, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points. All external works are being undertaken by McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) including general hardstanding, car-parking, electric vehicle charging points, landscaping, mains services and drainage. Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are delighted that works are progressing well at Horizon 29 P1B and we’re on track for completion this summer. In a prime location in the Midlands, Horizon 29 will be a premier distribution centre for the region, and an ideal hub for quality tenants looking for direct and easy access to the M1 north and south. “Working with Bentall Green Oak and Equation Properties for the second phase of the build has allowed us to solidify our strong working relationship and we are incredibly pleased to be working with them across two pivotal phases of this landmark scheme.” Equation Properties is a London-based property development company for the distribution and industrial sector. Dick Smallman, construction director at Equation Properties, said: “We are delighted to be working with McLaren on the second phase of this prestigious development, the scheme is progressing extremely well. This is a high-quality product in a premier location.” McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) Ltd is part of McLaren Group – a group of companies formed in 2001 which operate in construction, property and development throughout the UK and UAE. McLaren Construction serves both the public and private sectors in core areas including commercial offices, residential, education, retail, distribution and logistics, hotels, and leisure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Analysis by peer to peer real estate investment platform, easyMoney, has revealed that when it comes to the returns currently being seen across the British property market, it’s commercial property that is providing the stronger yields when compared to the average yield available via the residential sector. easyMoney analysed the current average yield being returned across both the residential and commercial property markets to see how the two are currently comparing, as well as how the balance between the two differs across each region of the nation. The research shows that currently across Britain, the average yield returned when investing within the residential sector is a respectable 4.1%. However, investing within the commercial property sector will see an average return of 6.5%. Scotland is currently home to the highest average residential return on investment at 5.4%, with the North West (5.2%) also home to an average resi yield of above 5%. In contrast, the average residential return being seen across the South East is the lowest of all areas of Britain at 3.7%. However, when it comes to commercial property yields, the North East tops the table, with the average return being seen in the current market sitting at a lofty 9.1%, followed by Yorkshire and the Humber (8%). London is home to the lowest average commercial yield in the current market at 4.6%. Again, the North East and Yorkshire top the table when it comes to the gap between the average residential and commercial yield available in the current market, with a difference of 4.5% and 3.6% respectively. The South East (3.1%) is also home to a gap of more than 3% between current resi and commercial yields, while London is home to the most balanced market with a difference of just 0.2%. Jason Ferrando, CEO of easyMoney says “Whether buying a home for yourself, investing in the rental sector, or looking to the commercial space, property is one of the smartest investments you can make. But for the amateur and professional investor alike, knowing exactly where to invest can be a daunting task. As our research shows, the strength of a bricks and mortar investment not only differs from one sector to the next, but also depending on which region you look to and some areas offer a greater balance between commercial and residential returns when compared to others. The key to investing successfully is often portfolio diversification and so it’s no wonder that many investors are opting for the peer to peer route when considering where best to place their money. In doing so, they are able to take advantage of far stronger rates of return, with their money gradually diversified across a range of bridge and development loans, for both residential and commercial developments.” Data tables – Data tables and sources can be viewed online, here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Thames Water has appointed Barhale to its newly-established framework for Waste Network Services. The civil engineering and infrastructure specialist will provide reactive, planned and proactive maintenance services under the £139M Lot 5 of the framework which runs for a minimum of five years with an option to extend for a further three years. Lot 5 covers high value proactive and reactive emergency repairs on both the gravity and pressurised wastewater network across the Thames Water Utilities operations area. It requires the provision of a range of activities including addressing acute customer problems such as blockages, flooding and pollutions; and working on subsequent follow-on work and scheduled maintenance, as set out under Thames Water Utilities’ planned programme. Barhale will be joined by Cappagh Contractors, Clancy Docwra, J Browne, McAllister Bros and Morrison Utility Services on the framework. Thames Water’s Network Operations Engineering Lead Jason Moran said: “Waste Network Services Lot 5 offers an important opportunity within Network Operations not just to strengthen our supply chain but also to harness industry experience from suppliers. “Barhale’s emergency response team has already provided critical support to our front-line, tackling complex challenges whilst working collaboratively with our breadth of internal and external stakeholders. “It’s an exciting time within operations, as we focus on innovation and delivery efficiency for the benefit of our customers.” Barhale Director Phil Cull is pleased to extend the business’s relationship with Thames Water. “We work closely with Thames across a number of frameworks and sites and have built up a fantastic operational understanding,” he said. “Through collaboration we have been able to deliver faster, more effectively and with less disruption to customers and these efficiency gains are key drivers of the how the Waste Network Services framework will be delivered. “There is also an important emphasis on innovation – finding new, better value ways to deliver solutions and building long-term resilience into the network.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Young people from a wide range of backgrounds in South London are being encouraged to become construction apprentices in a bid to fill the vacancies at sites across the city. Thousands of roles need to be filled at building sites across London as research shows more than 4,000 jobs will need to be filled every year for construction projects to be completed on time. A campaign has been launched in a bid to meet these ambitious targets by highlighting the wide range of jobs that are available to apprentices in construction. The campaign includes two virtual information events, which are taking place later this month. The South London Partnership (SLP) campaign is seeing councils, colleges and businesses in South London working together to find the construction apprentices and tutors needed across the industry. Shane Routledge-McDonald, 21, an apprentice site manager with the Berkeley Group working on the creation of 926 apartments at the iconic Prince of Wales Drive development in Battersea, said: “After school I wanted to be able to find a way to expand my education while learning something new, and an apprenticeship ticked all those boxes. “Ever since I’ve been young I’ve had a keen eye for detail and I liked making floor plans for my parents. When I looked into construction, site management suited me and what I wanted to do for a career.” Shane is studying at Farnborough College of Technology to learn the skills needed to create the Prince of Wales Drive development, which includes resident facilities such as a swimming pool, bar, karaoke room and cinema. Following up on why apprenticeships are a good route into employment, he explained: “I’d encourage anyone to become an apprentice because you get paid and you can actually see the job getting done rather than being in a room and someone just talking to you about the subject. You also gain skills a lot faster, and looking to the future, I want to complete this apprenticeship and my NVQ and then work up the ranks to become a project director. “When I wake up in the morning it always puts a smile on my face knowing that I’m not only doing a job I love, but I’m also making my family proud as well.” Supported by the Mayor of London, the SLP initiative comes after research revealed that more apprentices and tutors are needed across the city. The South London Partnership is a sub-regional collaboration of five London boroughs: Croydon, Kingston upon Thames, Merton, Richmond upon Thames and Sutton. Apprenticeships are available in hundreds of careers including as a 3D Visualiser, Gas Service Installer, Building Technician or a Glazier. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) recently released its annual Construction Skills Network (CSN) report which shows that Greater London needs 22,800 extra workers by 2027 – that means an annual recruitment boost of 4,560 must happen. Tutors from a range of backgrounds are also needed to help apprentices achieve the qualifications they need to progress in the construction industry. They will be responsible for providing the support needed for apprentices to develop their technical skills – as well as professional attributes such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork abilities. The virtual events include one for anyone wanting information on becoming a tutor on March 27 at 5pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/become-a-tutor-in-construction-find-out-more-tickets-576344861997 and one for apprentices on March 30 at 4.30pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/apprenticeships-in-construction-find-out-more-tickets-576195144187 For more information email csl@southlondonpartnership.co.uk or visit http://southlondonpartnership.co.uk/skills/mayors-construction-academy-hub/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ONE of the main factors preventing the UK from delivering large-scale housing effectively is that housebuilders are not fully equipped to fulfil the role of ‘master developer’ due to lack of up-front funding, according to the managing director of one of the country’s leading project management consultancies. Jonathon Bentley, who heads up Bentley Project Management, believes that most housebuilders aren’t inclined to invest in the infrastructure required to build out major urban extensions due to the high level of risk and the lack of immediate return-on-investment. Bentley – whose company is currently working on schemes to deliver infrastructure for more than 35,000 new homes – says that this creates a huge obstacle that needs to be navigated and is a much bigger challenge than simply the much-maligned planning system. “What we are seeing is that typically, housebuilders are looking towards small-scale schemes that can deliver a good return on investment fairly quickly,” said Bentley. “However, when it comes to the kind of major schemes that we as a country need to hit housebuilding targets, the related infrastructure – and the upfront funding that is required – strangles the speed of development. “To make any land ready for housing, there is a significant amount of infrastructure work required before it is primed for development. At the moment, this is simply not being made accessible, meaning that existing master developers or local authorities are having to cover these extensive costs upfront. “What this leads to is a problem balancing development cashflow that ensures a scheme can progress to the next phase, as large amounts of capital are exhausted before the first brick is laid. For housebuilders that typically rely on a business model that limits risk, this kind of upfront investment is very off-putting. “For small scale developments, the process for obtaining planning consent needs simplifying. But for projects at the larger end of the scale, it is a false perception that this is the only stumbling block. “There are significant numbers of these urban extension projects that have been given planning consent, but the combination of limited funding, a lack of appetite for developing out the infrastructure needed to support them and the timescales involved in doing so, is standing in the way of progress.” Bentley was recently involved in a visit by Michael Gove MP, secretary of state for levelling up, housing and communities, to a new sustainable urban extension at New Lubbesthorpe, Leicestershire – a scheme his team has been involved in for more than a decade. He added: “Following our discussion, it was clear that Mr Gove really understood the difference between what a master developer does in the way of servicing the land ready for houses to be built on, in contrast to the more traditional role of a housebuilder. “There now needs to be a concerted effort from those in government to investigate how large scale, sustainable urban housing developments can be rolled out across the country. More funding needs to be made available to get major urban extensions ‘shovel-ready’. If this can be done, we will see more housebuilders in a position where they can purchase fully serviced parcels of land and therefore build more, much-needed housing.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Amit Oberoi has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the Considerate Constructors Scheme – the organisation which works with the construction industry to improve its image – to help raise its standards and build public trust in construction. Amit takes on this role with effect from 1 March 2023, having held the position of non-Executive Chairman from July 2022 and Board Director from January 2022. Amit will lead the organisation on an interim basis, while the Board resumes the recruitment of a new Chief Executive. Amit is a Global Risk Management Practitioner, with over 20 years cross-industry experience in leadership roles in construction, technology, management consulting and national authorities. Amit currently works as Chief Executive at yppah, a mental health technology organisation. He has previously worked for construction organisations including Lendlease and on large high profile infrastructure projects in locations across the UK, Middle East and Australia. Amit commented: “I am excited to take on this role and to be able to put my knowledge and experience to work in developing the organisation. “I will be guiding the efforts of the executive, upholding our values, and delivering a smooth transition to the new Chief Executive when we make this appointment.” Graham Watts, Chief Executive of the Construction Industry Council and Considerate Constructors Scheme Board Director added: “We welcome Amit to the position of Executive Chairman. His enthusiasm combined with first-hand industry experience will be a great asset for the Considerate Constructors Scheme and we look forward to working with him in this new capacity while the search for a new Chief Executive continues.” Chief Executive of the Construction Products Association and Considerate Constructors Scheme Board Director Peter Caplehorn commented: “In his previous role as non-Executive Chairman and a Board Director of the Scheme, Amit has shown huge energy and enthusiasm in the work of the Considerate Constructors Scheme to raise standards and build public trust. We are delighted to have him in the position of Executive Chairman and see his obvious talents make even more positive impact going forwards for the organisation, the community and wider industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wirral Council has approved plans to build The Maritime Knowledge Hub at Peel L&P’s Wirral Waters. The Hub will be a high-level industrial and maritime facility, supporting the region’s £5 billion maritime ecosystem where research and innovation will focus on making the most of the incredible opportunities that decarbonisation of the global $3trillion maritime sector brings. The Hub will also include business accelerator space and conference facilities for both the marine sector and the local business community. Designed by architects Ellis Williams Architects, the Maritime Knowledge Hub will be an architectural landmark and is set to be one of the most important parts of the entire Wirral Waters regeneration project, which will drive economic growth and job creation to the Liverpool City Region and beyond. Set within the existing 19th century Hydraulic Tower building and Engine House, originally designed by Jesse Hartley’s son, John Bernard Hartley, as a copy of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, the Maritime Knowledge Hub project will breathe new life into the building. The architects and design team worked to maximise the sustainability of the project whilst retaining as much of the building’s original character as possible, complementing the iconic tower with the creation of a new 4 storey extension to accommodate some of the country’s most famous and innovative maritime organisations. The facility will be industry led and will drive research and innovation by bringing education, businesses and Government together within the maritime sector. Support for the sector is critical to the economy – with a direct turnover of £55billion, and an overall economic impact of £116bn to the UK, the UK’s maritime sector contributes more than rail and aviation combined. The world leading research and innovation within the Maritime Knowledge Hub will have a particular focus on the decarbonisation of the maritime industry as well as technology transfer from other industries. It will also bring education, employers and businesses together to drive innovation and research within the marine and maritime sectors. Wirral Council granted planning permission yesterday after the application was submitted in May 2022. Project partners include Peel L&P, Mersey Maritime, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Wirral Council, alongside a number of industry partners. It is expected that the project will be on site in 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Accelerating investment in energy efficiency is essential if the UK’s commercial property sector is to meet the strengthened Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) that come into force on 1 April, says lighting manufacturer Tamlite Lighting. Introduced eight years ago, the MEES legislation stated that property owners or landlords could not grant a tenancy to new or existing tenants of properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of F or G. From April this year, those requirements will apply to existing leases too, meaning it will be unlawful to continue to let properties with an F or G rating. Tamlite has long championed the retrofit of legacy real estate with low carbon technologies including modern LED lighting systems, coupled with intelligent control networks. The company believes that with the replacement of outdated lighting, buildings can be more efficient, generating energy savings of between 60% to 80%. For commercial landlords, this may be the difference between a building being lettable, or unlettable under the forthcoming legal changes. ‘8% of London commercial real estate unlettable’ The news that all let commercial properties will need to have a minimum EPC rating of E has sent shockwaves throughout the UK property market. Recent research by real estate firm Savills (1) has indicated that the changes could mean 185 million sq ft of all retail space in the UK could soon become ‘unlettable’. Whilst a 2023 study from BNP Paribas Real Estate (2) focused on inner London suggested that 8% of existing commercial stock in that region could be impossible to let after 1 April, 2023. Failure to comply with the strengthened MEES legislation means significant fines for those who fail to bring their let commercial properties up to standard. The onus is on property owners and landlords to make the necessary changes – and quickly. The most important first step is to build a strong dialogue (including with the tenant) to ensure that the lines of responsibility are transparent, and that an effective timetable is established. Once those aspects have been defined, stakeholders need to review their use of technology and how it helps – or hinders – the efficiency of their buildings. Total operational carbon emissions from all buildings make up around 17% of the UK’s overall emissions; and when you consider that lighting accounts for nearly 5% of global CO2 emissions (3), it goes to show that the measures being put into place by MEES legislation will make a big difference towards overall energy consumption. And without doubt, one of the most important factors is lighting. Dramatic reductions Tamlite designs and manufactures an extensive range of LED systems to suit a wide range of commercial applications, including retail and corporate premises. In addition, it can also provide intelligent controls and sensors that allow businesses to monitor how their spaces are being utilised and make changes to lighting settings. By ensuring that lighting is only in use when required, property owners can set the scene for a further dramatic reduction in energy consumption. The Tamlite team says it is ready to help property owners and landlords implement changes that will help prepare them for the MEES measures coming into force in April – and beyond. Because in four years’ time, the regulations will be tightened once again, meaning that a further significant percentage (possibly upwards of 40%) of existing commercial property will become unlettable. “The imminent alterations to the MEES regulations have underlined how critical it is for building systems to be as efficient as possible,” says Tamlite’s Debbie-Sue Farrell. “Not only does lighting represent one of the greatest single ways in which the energy performance of a building can be improved, it is also a huge factor in improving the long-term wellbeing and productivity of tenants and employees.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A consultation has launched over plans to develop a sustainable housing scheme and new public parkland at land west of Elton Reservoir in Bury. Residents of Radcliffe and Bury are being asked for their feedback on Peel L&P’s proposals which include new open spaces and parkland with leisure and nature uses, health facilities, new primary schools and improved access to Radcliffe to support the ongoing regeneration of the local area. New transport improvements and more sustainable travel options would ease congestion around Bury and Radcliffe town centres including a new link road connecting Bury in the north with Radcliffe in the south. This will provide a new north-south travel corridor including a high-quality bus route and safer facilities for cyclists and pedestrians. There could also be a new Metrolink station and travel hub at Warth Fold. The project represents an investment worth half a billion pounds to the area and brings further economic benefits to both towns creating 240 full time jobs each year during construction and over 100 additional jobs for residents. The proposals would also see over £75 million spent in local shops and leisure facilities by new residents and a council tax revenue for Bury Council of £9m to help improve local services further. The land west of Elton Reservoir is included in the emerging Places for Everyone (PfE) plan, which sets out how each borough can meet the local need for new homes, jobs and sustainable growth. PfE has earmarked the site for up to 3,500 new homes which would include affordable housing options and homes to buy or rent for families, first-time buyers and downsizers as well as retirement and extra care living. Homes would be highly energy efficient and sustainably designed, to lower running costs for residents. The plans have been formed around the Elton and Withins reservoirs, which will be retained and enhanced, and seek to complement the current natural landscape. Over two-thirds of the site will remain as green space and parkland and the planned new neighbourhood would be well-connected to nature, with green space that will be made more accessible to all and extend beyond the current rights of way to help improve people’s health and wellbeing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sheet metal bending is a process that involves shaping metal sheets into various forms using different tools and techniques. Sheet metal bending can be done for a variety of reasons, such as manufacturing parts, constructing structures, or even for decorative purposes. In this article, we’ll Hitherbest sheet metal fabrications have kindly given us some top tips for bending sheet metal like a pro. Introduction Sheet metal bending is a crucial process in metalworking that is used to shape a sheet of metal into a particular form. This process involves applying force to the metal sheet, which causes it to bend or deform into a new shape. Sheet metal bending can be done using different techniques, tools, and materials depending on the desired outcome. In the following sections, we will discuss the most common types of sheet metal bending, tools used, tips for bending sheet metal, and common mistakes to avoid. Types of Sheet Metal Bending There are several types of sheet metal bending techniques that can be used to shape a metal sheet, including V-bending, U-bending, air bending, and bottoming. V-Bending V-bending is a type of sheet metal bending technique that involves clamping the metal sheet between a punch and a die. The punch applies pressure to the metal sheet, causing it to bend into a V shape. U-Bending U-bending is another technique that is commonly used in sheet metal bending. This technique is similar to V-bending, except that the metal sheet is bent into a U shape instead of a V shape. Air Bending Air bending is a type of sheet metal bending technique that involves using a punch and die to apply force to the metal sheet, causing it to bend. Unlike V-bending and U-bending, air bending does not require the metal sheet to be clamped tightly between the punch and die. Bottoming Bottoming is a sheet metal bending technique that involves bending the metal sheet until it makes contact with the bottom of the die. This technique is useful for creating sharp bends in sheet metal. Choosing the Right Tool for Sheet Metal Bending Choosing the right tool for sheet metal bending is essential for achieving the desired outcome. There are several tools that can be used for sheet metal bending, including press brakes, folding machines, and roll bending machines. Press Brake A press brake is a tool used for sheet metal bending that applies force to the metal sheet using a punch and die. Press brakes are available in different sizes and capacities and can be used for a variety of sheet metal bending applications. Folding Machine A folding machine is a tool used for sheet metal bending that bends the metal sheet by clamping it and folding it using a moving beam. Folding machines are commonly used for creating box-like shapes in sheet metal. Roll Bending Machine A roll bending machine is a tool used for sheet metal bending that bends the metal sheet by passing it between three rollers. Roll bending machines are commonly used for creating cylindrical shapes in sheet metal. Tips for Bending Sheet Metal Bending sheet metal requires skill and precision. Here are some tips to keep in mind when bending sheet metal: Measure Twice, Cut Once Before bending the sheet metal, it’s essential to measure and mark it accurately. Double-check the measurements before making any cuts to avoid wasting materials and time. Use the Right Tool for the Job Using the appropriate tool for sheet metal bending is crucial. Choose the right tool based on the thickness and type of metal, the desired bend angle, and the complexity of the shape. Properly Secure the Sheet Metal To avoid the sheet metal from moving during the bending process, it must be securely clamped to the tool. Ensure that the sheet metal is straight and level before clamping it in place. Avoid Over-Bending Over-bending is a common mistake that can cause the sheet metal to crack or deform. Follow the recommended bend angles for the thickness and type of metal being used to avoid over-bending. Use a Bend Allowance A bend allowance is the amount of material that needs to be added to the sheet metal’s length to compensate for the metal’s deformation during the bending process. Using a bend allowance helps to achieve precise and accurate bends. Use a Back Gauge A back gauge is a tool used to ensure that the sheet metal is positioned accurately before bending. It’s essential to use a back gauge to avoid mistakes and ensure consistent results. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bending Sheet Metal Bending sheet metal can be challenging, and there are several common mistakes to avoid: Underestimating the Bend Radius The bend radius is the radius of the metal’s inner surface during bending. Underestimating the bend radius can cause the sheet metal to crack or deform, resulting in wasted materials and time. Neglecting Material Thickness Material thickness is crucial when bending sheet metal. Neglecting the material thickness can lead to inaccurate and imprecise bends, resulting in wasted materials and time. Improperly Positioning the Sheet Metal Positioning the sheet metal incorrectly can lead to inconsistent and inaccurate bends. It’s essential to use a back gauge to ensure that the sheet metal is positioned accurately before bending. Forgetting to Account for Springback Springback is the amount of deformation that occurs when the sheet metal is released from the bending tool. Forgetting to account for springback can lead to inaccurate and imprecise bends. Conclusion Sheet metal bending is a crucial process in metalworking that requires skill, precision, and the appropriate tools. By understanding the various techniques, choosing the right tool for the job, following tips for bending sheet metal, and avoiding common mistakes, you can achieve accurate and precise bends in sheet metal. FAQs What is the best tool for bending sheet metal? The best tool for bending sheet metal depends on several factors, including the thickness and type of metal, the desired bend angle, and the complexity of the shape. What is the
