The K-factor is a multiplier that defines the location of the neutral axis within a sheet metal bend. When metal is folded, the inside compresses and the outside stretches, but the neutral axis remains exactly the same length. By knowing the K-factor for a specific material and thickness, fabricators can calculate the exact flat pattern length needed to achieve a precise final dimension.
Check the K-factor for this aluminum batch before you program the laser cutter, or the flanges will come out too long.
A standard rule of thumb for steel sheet is a K-factor of 0.446, but it changes depending on the bend radius and tooling.
Related terms
Blanking
A sheet metal cutting operation that punches out a flat profile from a larger piece of stock.
Flange
To bend the edge of a sheet metal part or pipe to form a projecting rim for attachment or stiffening.
Cold work
To plastically deform a metal at temperatures below its recrystallization point to alter its properties.