Sheet metal question

[abzheli]

When benting sheet metal, for example 2024t3, should the bend be with or against the grain?

[Genghis the Engineer]

Grain should be perpendicular to the bend because otherwise energy stored by the bend in the outside of the curve has a small likelihood of promoting fatigue cracks along the length of the bend.

G

[stevef]

Or diagonal if two or more bends are being formed (such as a box section or flanged diaphragm).

[North Stand Tier3]

Trick from one of the old workshop boys was to use fine emery on the edges of the bend line and use a sacrificial piece especially when its thicker, just remember to amend your bend radii to allow for it!

You ain't seen me right............