Flange tools create a recessed area on sheet metal to join two pieces together. They come in manual, hydraulic, and pneumatic models, with different attachments for various flange shapes. Only one side needs to be flanged, and flanged holes are used for cables or vents. Manual versions are spring-loaded or use locking pliers with a flanging die.
A flange tool is a device used to create a flange on a piece of sheet metal. A flange is a recessed or lip-like area used to join two pieces of sheet metal together. There are several types of flange tools, from manual to hydraulic models that can create a flange out of heavy material without slowing you down. A pneumatic flange tool is capable of doing short body repair work.
When two pieces of sheet metal are joined together, a flange tool is often used to create a joint for the two pieces that is easy to align and position for the join. Joining methods, from pop rivets to screws and welding, are all equally used on flanged material. A key for metalworkers to remember when joining sheet metal is that only one side needs to be flanged. This allows a part to remain in the flange created with a flange tool and both sheet metal surfaces will be closely aligned for finishing. Flanging tools can be air operated, giving the tool great accuracy and speed.
The typical flange tool has a series of jaws that are cut away to create a recessed area near the edge of the sheet metal that forms a shelf of sorts. Other flange attachments are used to create round, circular type flanges which are often used to lighten sheet metal while maintaining strength in the metal. Flanged holes are also used to pass cables or other materials through a sheet metal or aluminum panel. This type of opening is also used for vents in some panels that still require force after the hole has been punched in the metal.
Some manual versions of the flanging tool are spring loaded for ease of repositioning. This type of tool is commonly placed on the edge of the metal and then struck with a hammer. The hammer drives the jaws of the flanging tool down and into the metal, causing the metal to form the flange. This process is repeated around the entire perimeter of the area requiring a flange.
Other flanged tool designs use a pair of locking pliers with a special flanging die welded to the jaws of the pliers. The user simply opens the pliers, places the jaws on the metal and closes them. This action is repeated as many times as necessary to complete placement of a flange around the edge of the metal.
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