What K-factor should I use for industrial air bending?
A 0.38 to 0.43 K-factor is a common starting range for air bending, but actual values require verification based on material, tooling, and grain direction.
Sheet metal
Sheet Metal K-Factor Calculator
Interactive K-factor calculator to estimate neutral-axis location and bend allowance for industrial fabrication.
mild steel16 ga0.0598 in1.519 mm
Static reference
Common thickness, radius, and angle combinations
| Gauge | Thickness | Inside radius | Angle | Bend allowance | Bend deduction |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 ga | 0.0598 in / 1.519 mm | 0.0598 in / 1.519 mm | 45 deg | 0.0667 in | 0.0324 in |
| 12 ga | 0.1046 in / 2.657 mm | 0.1569 in / 3.985 mm | 90 deg | 0.3155 in | 0.2075 in |
Interactive calculator
Sheet Metal K-Factor Calculator
Neutral axis from inside face0.0251 in
Bend allowance0.1334 in
K-factor0.4200.30 to 0.50 is a common practical range.
FAQ
Specific checks for this calculator
How does K-factor affect developed flat length?
The K-factor determines where the neutral axis lies during a bend; an accurate K-factor is essential for calculating the correct developed length for laser or waterjet cutting.