Order the formed part by its finished cross-section
A bent channel starts as plate or sheet and receives two longitudinal bends to create an open U profile. The inquiry needs a finished cross-section, not simply a flat blank width. Mark whether the stated web and flange dimensions are measured inside, outside or to another drawing datum.
This is a drawing-defined formed part. It should not be assumed to have the section properties, geometry or certification of a hot-rolled structural channel. If the component carries load, the designer must approve the actual cross-section, material and connection details.
Dimensions that control the bending review
| Order detail | Information to provide |
|---|---|
| Base material | Grade, applicable standard, thickness and delivery condition |
| Web and flanges | Finished widths/heights with the dimensional datum shown |
| Bends | Inside radius, included angle and rolling-direction orientation |
| Length | Finished length, end squareness and any end cut-outs |
| Acceptance | Cross-section tolerances, straightness, twist and inspection points |
| Additional features | Holes, slots, weld details and visible-face requirements |
Keep radius and tooling feasibility visible
Formability depends on the specific material, thickness, condition and direction of bending. An achievable radius for one grade is not a general rule for every weathering steel. Provide the material reference and proposed radius so the processing route and tooling can be reviewed before acceptance.
Holes or cut-outs near a bend can influence the finished geometry. Mark critical hole locations, the measurement method and whether machining is required after forming. Agree any prototype or first-piece review when the part must mate with another component. Final dimensions should be accepted in the formed condition.
Send a section drawing and a part schedule
- Attach the cross-section, length schedule and drawing revision.
- Identify dimension datums, inside radii and bend angles.
- Specify straightness, twist and the dimensions that affect assembly.
- Include holes, welds, edge treatment and traceability requirements.
- State quantity by part number, packing and delivery destination.
Blank development, proposed forming sequence, dimensional limits and any subcontracted processing are confirmed during quotation. Processing capacity and the acceptable minimum radius must be agreed for the actual material and drawing.
Is this the same as a standard rolled channel?
No. A channel formed from plate has drawing-defined geometry. Structural equivalence must be established by the designer for the actual section.
What inside bend radius should I specify?
State the required inside radius on the section drawing, together with the grade, thickness and bend orientation. Feasibility is confirmed during forming review.
Should I provide the flat blank or finished dimensions?
Provide the finished cross-section and datums. Any developed blank or buyer-specified blank dimension should be identified separately and agreed with the processor.
SSAB Weathering 355 formability information ↗
Producer-specific guidance illustrates why bending requirements depend on material and thickness; it is not a universal forming rule or a claimed supply relationship.