Metal Deformation Processes:
Sheet Metalworking

Bending

Bending is the straining of metal around a straight axis during which the metal on the inside of the neutral axis is compressed while that on the outside is stretched. Plastic deformation takes place so that the bend takes a permanent set when the stresses that caused it are removed.

Drawing

The drawing process is the forming of a hollow or concave shape from a flat metal sheet (a blank) by stretching the metal. A blankholder is used to hold the blank down while the punch pushes into the sheet metal.

Shearing

In shearing a punch and die are used to cut the workpiece. While this is not actually a forming process, it is a very necessary one in sheet metalworking.

Back
Site Map
Administration Flowcharts Project Forms Samples Links/Resources

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 0633602. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recomendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation (NSF).

© Copyright 1995-2025 — All rights reserved.
Pennsylvania State University
Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics
Send comments about this site to: webmaster@esm.psu.edu

Penn State is committed to affirmative action,
equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

This publication is available on alternative media on request.