Bending 3/16" x 2" Steel Bars

[xroad]

Last time I bend some steel bars a bit smaller than 3/16 x 2, I used a 3 feet long pipe over my pipe wrench. The bend radius was big. I wanted a relatively sharp small radius bend. I tried using a propane torch and a Mapp torch but it was not enough heat. What can I use? Is it expensive?

-xroad

[Bib Overalls]

Here is a trick that may or may not be appropriate for what you are trying to do. Use a hack saw, cut off wheel, or other cutting tool to cut half way through the bar on the outside of the bend. Make the bend. Then fill the kirf with weld and dress for apperance.

[Bondo]

Ayuh,....

That's pretty light steel,.....

I'd think with a BFH,+ a block of Hardwood for an Anvil.....

You should be able to bend it anyway you want.......

What are you looking for, How Long,+ What Radius,..??

[xroad]

Don't know how to weld. BFH and a big heavy vise did not do it. Made a lot of noise! Was hoping to achieve half inch radius or smaller. Mapp torch cannot concentrate the heat enough to get the steel soft. The bar was too big in surface area. I have bend round rods, half inch, with a torch. The bars are too big of a heat sink.

What is the next step up from Mapp gas torch?

[rsanter]

do you have a hydrolic press? know someone that does?
bob

[xroad]

No hydraulic press either. :(