4 Types of Hemming Bending Process

Hemming (flattening) bending is a frequent bending operation method that typically involves bending the edge of a workpiece into either parallel edges or rounded edges, as illustrated in Figure 1.

Fig. 1 Schematic diagram of hemming and bending

The objective of hemming and bending is to remove sharp edges, enhance the strength of the workpiece, and improve its appearance.

The process of flattening bending typically involves two steps:

(1) Pre-bend the workpiece to 30°, and then flatten and bend the workpiece as shown in Figure 2.

Fig. 2 Steps of hemming and bending

To choose the right flattening bending solution, it is necessary to first consider the material and thickness of the workpiece and the frequency of flattening bending.

(2) It is important to note that the hemming die can also be used for regular bending when hemming is not required.

There are two types of hems:

• PARTIAL FLATTENING: the sheet metal is fattened using a low force, therefore spring back generates a teardrop shape between the flattened side and the rest of the sheet （see image above left）。
• FLATTENING: the sheet metal is completely fattened （see image above right）。

The charts on the right show the necessary force to produce the two hemming types described above.

• Column 1: S = Sheet metal thickness
• Column 2: A = flattening height
• Column 3: Necessary force per metre to flatten sheet metal with 450N/mm² tensile strength (mild steel), 1 T = 9.8 KN
• Column 4: flatten sheet metal with 700N/mm² tensile strength (stainless steel)

There are four different hemming bending solutions to suit different bending conditions:

(1) Flat bottom hemming die;

(2) U-shaped hemming die;

(3) Spring-type hemming die;

(4) Hydraulic hemming table.

Related: V & U-shaped Bend Force Calculator

Fig. 3 Four hemming and bending solutions

1. Flat bottom hemming die

The flat bottom hemming die accomplishes hemming and bending through the use of two sets of dies, that is, one set of upper and lower standard dies and one set of upper and lower flat bottom dies are employed together, as depicted in Figure 4.

Fig. 4 Schematic diagram of flat bottom hemming die

The process begins with pre-bending the workpiece to 30° using a standard die.

Next, the workpiece is flattened and bent on the flat bottom die.

Since the flat bottom hemming die requires a two-step bending process, it is mainly suitable for working conditions where hemming and bending are infrequent and offer cost-effectiveness.

However, there is some lateral force during hemming, and the maximum thickness of the flattened carbon steel plate is limited to 2 mm.

To address the limited thickness in flattened bending, a ball-type movable flat bottom lower die was innovatively introduced. The maximum thickness of the flattened carbon steel plate or stainless steel plate can now reach 4 mm, as demonstrated in Figure 5.

Fig. 5 Schematic diagram of ball type movable lower die

2. U-shaped hemming die

A set of U-shaped hemming dies can be used for pre-bending and flattening, as depicted in Figure 6.

Fig. 6 Schematic diagram of U-shaped hemming die

The benefit of the U-shaped hemming die is its versatility; when it is not required for hemming and bending, it can be utilized for standard air bending, offering high utilization and cost-effectiveness.

The maximum thickness for a flattened carbon steel plate is 1.5 mm, while the maximum thickness for a flattened stainless steel plate is 1 mm. The minimum flange size that can be flattened is approximately 14 mm.

3. Spring type hemming die

The spring hemming die comprises a 28° standard upper die and a 30° hemming lower die. The hemming insert of the lower die is supported by a spring.

During the hemming process, the pre-bent workpiece is placed between the hemming insert and the guide insert of the hemming lower die. The hemming insert follows the descent of the upper die and presses down until the pre-bent workpiece is flattened.

The maximum thickness that the spring hemming die can flatten in a carbon steel plate is 2 mm.

Like the other hemming solutions, the spring hemming die can also be used for standard air bending when not used for hemming bending.

Fig. 7 Schematic diagram of spring hemming die

4. Hydraulic hemming table

The hydraulic hemming table (as depicted in Figure 8) operates similarly to the spring hemming die, but instead of a spring, a hydraulic cylinder is used to control the lift of the hemming insert.

Fig. 8 Schematic diagram of hydraulic hemming workbench

The oil pressure is 100 bar, which makes it possible to bend thicker and heavier workpieces. To further enhance the service life of the hydraulic hemming table, a hardening hemming insert can be added.

The standard lower die can be placed on the hydraulic hemming workbench and the V opening can be selected according to your needs, up to a maximum of 40 mm. The lower die can be clamped manually or automatically for more efficient die changes.

The hydraulic hemming table is capable of flattening carbon steel plates with a thickness of up to 3 mm. The spring hemming die or hydraulic hemming table can be clamped onto the fixture or mechanical compensation table.

The hydraulic hemming table can also be directly installed on the lower beam of the bending machine, which provides greater opening height and flexibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the four different hemming and bending solutions each have their own unique advantages. Depending on the hemming and bending application scenario, you can choose the appropriate solution.