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Hem
A fold created by bending metal 180 degrees back onto itself, producing a smooth, stiffened, finished edge. Hems eliminate sharp cut edges, increase part rigidity, and are commonly used on enclosure panels and decorative sheet metal components.
A hem is created by folding sheet metal 180 degrees back onto itself, producing a doubled-over edge that is smooth, safe to handle, and significantly stiffer than a single-thickness edge. This operation is typically performed in two stages on a press brake: first an acute overbend (approximately 30 degrees past 90), then a flattening operation that closes the fold completely against itself.
Hems are widely used on door panels, appliance housings, and enclosure covers where a sharp sheared edge would pose a safety hazard or look unprofessional. The hem also adds structural rigidity to thin-gauge panels, reducing oil-canning and flex that would otherwise occur in large flat areas.
Material selection matters for hemming, ductile materials like mild steel and aluminum hem easily, while harder alloys and thicker gauges may crack at the fold if the minimum bend radius is exceeded.
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