How To Stretch Sheet Metal

Then remove the tool and move it over so the fork will roll the metal over the other side of the fork by twisting the metal the other direction.

How to stretch sheet metal.

That stops the shrinking and controls the result of the operation. You can shrink steel or you can stretch steel. Shrinker stretchers accomplish this with a pair of ribbed jaws that bite into. In this live video matt goes over how to use a shrinker stretcher.

Stretching the profile of a piece of sheet metal will greatly increase the strength of the metal. Start by inserting the fork into the edge of the sheet metal at the desired depth of the shrink you want to make. The basic principle of shrinking and stretching relies on squeezing the metal together or pulling it apart to stretch. These two qualities are what make it so workable when it comes to forming or repairing a body panel on your car or truck.

The press came down and stamped out the correct shape. Save money by making your own windshield channels door jambs wheel openings and more. This process involves changing the shape of the metal and tends to put a bulge or curve into the panel. The bulged spot is hammered back to level with the panel but no further as this would cause the metal to be hit directly against the dolly which would re stretch it.

When your body panels were made a flat sheet of steel was placed onto a die in a powerful hydraulic press.