Why Not All Arcs Are Equal: Designing Bends for Constant Stress Distribution

Curves in design aren’t just for aesthetic appeal. They play a crucial role in how weight and forces are distributed across a structure. When designing bent aluminum for long spans, like in roof supports, bridges, or trusses, the geometry of the arc directly impacts how stress is spread. Engineers and architects need to know that not all arcs are created equal when it comes to balancing structural loads.