Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS OF TECHNIFORM

What can I do when I have multiple component systems?
Techniform International can form intricate multi-component and snap together curtain-wall components without loss of section properties or original design function.

What shapes and cross sections can be formed?
Techniform is capable of stretch forming portions of circles, ellipses, parabolas and arched shapes. These shapes can even be formed with straight leg sections at one or both ends. Cross sections include curtain-walls, window systems, skylights, store fronts, signs, flashings, walkway enclosures, hand-railing, tubes, channels, brake shapes, angles and much more.

What about tolerance and cosmetic finishes?
Techniform produces a superior finished product compared to other types of forming. Close and consistent tolerances, no surface marring, no distorting or ripples and no surface misalignment of complex profiles are important benefits inherent in stretch forming. Due to the precise and consistent nature of stretch forming, normal architectural fabrication standards and tolerances are maintained or exceeded.

What kind of materials can utilize this unique process?
Most architectural metals can be stretch formed, including aluminum alloys, steel, copper, stainless steel, galvanized and certain bronzes and brasses. Aluminum extrusions are the most commonly stretchformed materials.

What kind of materials restrictions exist?
Materials should not be notched or drilled prior to forming. The suitability of anodized materials for stretch forming depends on coating quality and severity of radius. Some discoloration may be apparent in tight radius forms.

What tempers are most suitable for stretch forming?
Aluminum extrusions should be available in mill finish, if possible and tempered to a T-1 through T- 4 softness. After curving of metal, Techniform can increase temper to a structural hardness of T-5 or T-6 as required.

What are the general costs associated with stretch forming?
Due to the nature of stretch forming, each project is quoted individually. Order and pricing information is available from Techniform by telephone, fax or e-mail, usually within 24 hours

What technical services are available?
Techniform's technical staff is available to answer questions relating to forming, formability of specific materials and applications. CAD services are available as well and are quoted on an individual basis.

What are the vocabulary terms associated with stretch forming?

Following is a list of terms and definitions:

Degree - Every circle regardless of radius contains 360 degrees of arc or curvature. The girth or arc length of curved glass or aluminum can be determined when the "degree of arc" is given.

Circumference - The length of a curve of arc of a circle.

Girth - The length of the curve or arc required. The dimension or measurement of the material required if viewed in a "stretched - out" or "flattened" state.

Radius - The dimension or measurement of an imaginary line taken from the center point of a circle to the arc or circumference of the circle.

Chord - The dimension of an imaginary straight line connecting the end points of a curve or arc. Sometimes referred to as the "point to point" dimension or measurement.

Concave - When viewed from the exterior, the curve bends away from the observer.

Convex - When viewed from the exterior, the curve bends towards the observer.

Rise - In geometric terms, the rise is known as the height of the arc. While not critical when adequate information is submitted, the rise or height of the arc, when used in conjunction with the chord dimension, can be used to calculate an unknown radius and girth.

Height - The straight edge dimension or measurement of a lite of glass as opposed to the girth dimension or measurement. Could also be referred to as the width if the lite is installed in an overhead application.

Tangent - A straight line coming out of an arc curve. Sometimes referred to as a straight leg.

Point of Tangency - The point at which a straight line meets a curve or arc. Determination of this point is crucial for the interfacing of curved glass for metal.

Compound Curve - A condition having a curve in a horizontal and vertical plane.

Serpentine Curve - A condition having convex and concave curves in the same plane.