Reverse Curve Bending

Bending aluminum tubing into an "S" shape

Tube bending for reverse curves

Reverse or "S" curves occur when the center of the radius flips from one side of the part to the other. Typically, a few feet of straight should be allowed between the change. However, certain steel sections of curved steel can be made with no straight at the inflection point. Mandrel tube bending as well as three-roll steel bending are processes that lend themselves to bending reverse curves. Often expensive weld splices can be eliminated with this curved steel process.

Reverse Curve Bending Capacities

Chicago Metal Rolled Products can bend reverse curves made of any structural steel shape and virtually every size. Key factors in our ability to create reverse curves include the degree of arc required for each curve as well as the amount of straight tangent, if any, between the curves.

Reverse Curve Bending Value-Added Services

Additional fabrication can be performed on reverse curves including cutting, welding, punching, and drilling. A common benefit from using reverse curves is that it eliminates a weld splice between each section of curved steel. These weld splices can cost more than $1,500 each.

Reverse Curve Bending Applications

Applications for reverse curved steel include sinuous roof structures like those of the Ratner Athletic Center at the University of Chicago; works of art like the wavy stainless tubes of "Amazon Rising" which were bent by a combination of mandrel tube bending and three roll bending; and undulating canopies and trusses. All are examples of the beauty of curved steel.