Hemming a flange with compression to form a sharp edge

摘要

A tool and method of hemming a panel wherein the tool engages a flange to apply a compressive force with a stop initially preventing a distal end of the flange from moving inwardly. The hemming tool bends the intermediate portion of the flange between the flange bend and the distal end toward the panel. The stop is withdrawn to allow the flange to be progressively formed toward the panel until the distal end is aligned with the intermediate portion.

主权项

1. A method of forming a hem on a sheet metal panel comprising:
placing the panel in a first part of a hemming tool, wherein the panel has a flange that extends inwardly from a body portion of the panel; advancing a second part of the hemming tool toward the first part and engaging a distal end of the flange with a stop that prevents the distal end of the flange from moving inwardly and compressing the flange, wherein an intermediate portion of the flange between the body portion and the distal end is formed inwardly; disengaging the stop from the distal end of the flange after a first portion of the flange is formed to extend parallel to the body; and forming a second portion of the flange that is contiguous with the distal end of the flange to extend parallel to the panel after the first portion of the flange is formed.