When it comes to the splicing of aluminum single panels, the angle between the folded edge of the aluminum panel and the panel surface must be less than 90 degrees, ideally controlled around 88 degrees. If the angle exceeds 90 degrees, gaps may appear during panel splicing.
The process of folding aluminum panels is as follows:
(1) Press Brake: The press brake directly bends the aluminum sheet, capable of producing various thicknesses of aluminum sheets, but with generally moderate production efficiency. Common press brakes are typically 4 meters in length.
(2) Press (Punch) Forming: Large-scale processing uses hydraulic presses, while smaller processing can utilize punch presses. Both operate on the same principle of forming with upper and lower molds, simultaneously shaping all four sides. This method offers higher production efficiency but requires higher precision for aluminum sheet thickness; excessively thick sheets may be difficult to bend.
(3) Roller Extrusion Forming: A production line equipment where a row of gradually changing rollers rotates to shape the aluminum. Depending on the required processing precision, the number of roller sets varies from 10 to 24. This method provides high production efficiency but demands high precision in aluminum sheet thickness; excessively thick sheets may be challenging to roll.
(4) Folding Machine: The folding machine works by pressing one side of the edge that needs to be folded, flipping the other side up or down to form the edge. It is capable of folding very small edges but has lower efficiency and limited application.
The folding of aluminum single panels serves the following four purposes:
(1) Increase Rigidity: By forming an "L" structural stress pattern through folding, the rigidity of the aluminum panel is strengthened. For instance, holding an A4 paper in hand may cause it to bend, but folding it prevents bending.
(2) Aesthetics: Aluminum panels without folded edges may appear bare and lack aesthetic appeal. Folding the edges raises the profile of the panel, enhancing its visual appeal.
(3) Installation Considerations: When installing aluminum panels on wall studs or ceiling hangers, there needs to be connection points. These connection points should not be visible on the surface, making folded edges a preferable choice.
(4) Jointing: Whether it's a seamed or tightly spliced connection between two aluminum panels, the edges of the panels are often joined at the folded edges rather than a flat seam.
For proper alignment of folded aluminum panels, the panels should naturally align during splicing. In the case of seamed connections, whether natural or adhesive seams, it is recommended to fold the edges at a 90-degree angle for ease of adhesive application and aesthetic appeal.
