How To Stretch Sheet Metal

Stretching the p rofile of the metal.

How to stretch sheet metal. In this live video matt goes over how to use a shrinker stretcher. The basic principle of shrinking and stretching relies on squeezing the metal together or pulling it apart to stretch. The press came down and stamped out the correct shape. Stretching the profile of a piece of sheet metal will greatly increase the strength of the metal.

This process involves changing the shape of the metal and tends to put a bulge or curve into the panel. Start by inserting the fork into the edge of the sheet metal at the desired depth of the shrink you want to make. 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. 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.

Shrinker stretchers accomplish this with a pair of ribbed jaws that bite into. These two qualities are what make it so workable when it comes to forming or repairing a body panel on your car or truck. Save money by making your own windshield channels door jambs wheel openings and more. In the traditional torch shrinking method a damp sponge may be applied to the shrink spot to quench it.

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