Bending notched aluminum angle

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I am trying to bend notched angle aluminum.  I have an older angle iron notcher/bender for making frames.  Angle seems to be only available in 6061 which breaks when you bend it.  I might be able to order angle in another bendable alloy, but which number alloy is most bendable and available?  If I heat the 6061 the notch bends fine, i just would rather bend it cold.  currently I want to bend 1"X 1/8", 2"X1/8" angle.  Any common alloys I should look for?
Reply:There is some good information on minimum bend radii for various aluminum alloys and heat treatment levels on aircraft spruce, here:http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...minumalloy.pdfAccording to the chart, here are the 1/8" thick aluminum alloys and heat treatments that can be cold bent to 90 degrees with a "zero" bend radius:1100-O, 1100-H12, or 1100-H142024-O3003-O or 3003-H125052-O6061-OAlso, according to the same chart, assuming that your 1/8" thick 6061 aluminum is "T6" heat treated, you could bend it to as little as a 3/8" radius (or "with extreme caution" to a 3/16" radius.)PS - when you sufficiently heat the alloy before you bend it, you are annealing it (changing it to a "O" condition)Last edited by jakeru; 04-07-2012 at 09:30 PM.
Reply:I'll have to check, it's the only alloy my local supplier can get in aluminum angle.  I have a feeling it is T6 though. I know they sell me a different alloy in plate if I intend to bend it, I believe that is in the 3000 series.  I will have to check both those on Monday.  Thanks, Bart
Reply:you should be able to find 6063 . It will bend without cracking.
Reply:I'll check if my supplier can get that, I cant really reduce my radius, I'm using an older pexto/whitney notcher/bender meant for 2x2x1/4 steel angle. Thanks.