What does a bend really cost?

The per-bend math

Bend cost = (seconds per bend / 3600) x press hourly rate + handling. At 30 s/bend and $60/hr all-in, each bend costs ~$0.50 in machine time - before setup.

Setup dominates small batches

Tool selection, alignment and first-article checks take 10-30 minutes. Across 10 parts that setup adds $1-3 per part; across 500 it disappears. Price batch breaks accordingly and say so on the quote.

Complexity multipliers

Long parts needing two operators, tight flange tolerances, sequence-critical bends and tool changes mid-job all raise effective time per bend. Count bends from the flat pattern, then add reality.

Quote it cleanly

Our bending calculator prices bends, setup amortization and handling per part - pair it with the laser calculator for complete cut-and-bend quotes.