Wire forms with compound bends typically are the most challenging. A compound bend is a feature within the wire form that has two adjacent bends or generations with no straight length tangent to the beginning and end of those radii.
Forming wire is done in a progressive manner, which means when a bend is started, a portion of straight length is required to begin. Typically, 1 to 1.5 times the respective wire diameter is required. There are always exceptions and it must be defined on a case-by-case basis, but this is generally the rule of thumb.The ability to form a difficult shape ultimately comes down to the operator knowing the machine, its programming capability and the tooling. A skilled operator, for example, can use a grinder to create a little more clearance between compound bends.
Source: Constantine Grapsas, Matt Lisnich, AIM Inc. (Automated Industrial Machinery Inc.)
.gif "View our in-stock products")
