Fabricating 1/4" steel flat bar

[thundermug]

I'm working on a project that involves .25" mild steel flat bar. I need to punch holes into the bar, and possibly do a few bends.

Here's some questions for those with experience:

How much tonnage is required to punch a .375" hole in .25" steel bar? Yes, I can take the time to drill the holes, but I'd rather use a punch.

How much tonnage is required to bend .25" x 1.5" steel bar in a hydraulic press? It will need to be a hard 90 degree bend. I would just weld, but I don't have access to a welder at this time.

Last question: Anyone in or near Chicago with the mentioned equipment willing to help me out? I'll bring a six pack of whatever.

 

[maxf31]

You will need around 7.5t to punch the holes and less then 3t to make the bends.

source:
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/jeff.burrill/ABC_of_bending/Bending Force Chart.htm
http://www.conwaypress.com/calc_holePunch.html

 

[thundermug]

Thanks. I was looking at the equipment to do this. I don't do enough of this kind of work to justify buying a hydraulic press, even from HF.

 

[JZHeyde]

I am out in the NW Burbs. I have a harbor freight press (20t) but no tooling for it. You are welcome to use it if needed.