How to Crimp Aluminum Sheeting
Sheet metal is often manufactured with aluminum, and its low density makes it widely used in the aerospace industry. Resistant to corrosion, aluminum sheeting is also used in food and chemical manufacturing, as well as in heating and air conditioning duct work. According to Metal Supermarkets, unalloyed aluminum has only moderate strength, so to increase its durability, it is often combined with other metals, such as copper, manganese and magnesium. Aluminum sheeting is commonly crimped to allow two sections of duct tubing to be joined together. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Compare the two aluminum sheeting tubes, side-by-side, to get a general idea of how much crimping is needed. Only one tube needs to be crimped, as it will slide into the other one.
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Crimp the aluminum sheeting by placing it between the crimping tool and lightly closing the tool's handles. Be sure to lightly crimp the metal at first, because if it is too tightly crimped, it will cause the duct work to be loose.
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Repeat the crimping process around the circumference of the aluminum tube. Move the crimping tool to the edge of the last crimp repeatedly to evenly crimp the aluminum sheeting.
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Insert the crimped aluminum sheeting into the non-crimped duct. If it doesn't fit properly, more crimping is necessary. Repeat the crimping process, using light pressure when making the crimp. Insert the crimped duct into the non-crimped duct far enough to hide the crimping. Also, make sure the fit is snug.
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Tips & Warnings
When working with any type of sheet metal, be sure to be careful of sharp edges, which can easily cut your hands and fingers. Wearing work gloves is suggested.
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