Pressure

• Pressure bending means bending using a pipe or tubing bender, a form press or just pinching the edge with pliers and giving a twist. The advantage of pressure bending is it can produce accurate bends and intricate shapes. Inserting steel tube or pipe into a hydraulic bender and bends of different angles and directions can be installed all along the length of the steel. Press forms can bend sheet steel almost instantaneously into a car fender or lawn mower deck. Using hand tools to bend steel is a little more skillful but just as effective with small applications.
  
  Just remember when bending steel it has a certain amount of "snap back" and the bend must compensate for this. The usual rule is steel will snap back about 5 degrees. So if the bend is measured to be a 90-degree angle, bend the steel around 95 degrees. When the tool is released the steel will snap back about 5 degrees into its proper shape.
  
  

Heat

• Heating steel to bend it is as old as blacksmiths and making swords. The only issue with heating steel to bend it is heat can alter the structure of the steel. If heated to a certain temperature, the steel can become more brittle or softer depending on its particular chemistry. Always apply heat with care and make sure the bend is absolutely necessary before applying the flame.
  
  When working around the house and wanting to bend a nail or piece of steel for a project, take extra precautions. Don't allow the heated metal to touch plastic, wood, paper or any flammable material. Always wear safety goggles and heavy work gloves when dealing with hot steel.
  
  

Impact

• Impacting the steel can bend it into shape. Hammers and other tools can bend steel around forms and templates into very exacting products. Often the "hand hammered" look is a desired finish for the steel. Again, though, take care when working with steel and hammering away. Sparks and metal splinters are always a concern. Safety goggles are required and of course gloves are good if the hammer misses the spot and deflects to a finger.