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Angle Aluminum Trim.... for the 2 billionth time!

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:31 pm
by jpenning
Ok. I purchased some aluminum angle from Home Depot. The trim is 1/2" on each leg and 1/20" in thickness. Do you guys think that I can "curve" this around the body without the the method of annealing (I am working off of a modified cubby with larger radius curves)?

Also, any thoughts as to how I might get the trim on the trailer without showing any screws? I thought of glueing, but that could make bending the angle rather difficult. Any thoughts?

Its nearing the end of July and I need some camping!!!!! :?

Thanks!

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:57 pm
by Georgeandpat
I think the front of the trailer radius would still be tough without annealing but I guess it also depends on the alloy of your aluminum. Annealing really worked well for me after a little practice. I didn't like putting so many screws in the trim either so I just put them on one side of the trim. It gave me a much "cleaner" look. George.

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 6:13 pm
by madjack
...I have a sneaking suspicion that you will have to anneal...if not you will need plenty of screws to affix trim without it pulling off. If you anneal, you might be able to affix trim with something like sikaflex 252/552 and a minimum amount of screws
madjack 8)

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:13 pm
by norm perkiss
I purchased the same for the door openings. I was a little apprehensive on the annealing thing, but it was actually a simple process. All you need is a propane torch and a candle. Soot the aluminum with the candle and keep the torch moving. It takes at least 5 minutes or more to do an 8' stick. Just work the flame back and forth in about a 4-6 inch area until the soot burns off. Quench with water or just let it sit. The key is keep it moving until the soot is gone. You may have to repeat for a small radius. Once will probably be enough for the Cubby curve. That's my 2ยข.

I used an aluminum RV trim on the roof edge. It was soft, easy to bend (no annealing) and the screws are hidden with a vinyl insert.
Norm

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:21 pm
by madjack
...Norm, quenching with water will temper the metal making it hard again, it is better to let it sit and cool slowly. I also am using insert moulding, it bent around the galley curve well enough but was way to "springy" for the front curve
madjack 8)

PostPosted: Thu Jul 21, 2005 7:45 pm
by norm perkiss
Madjack,
Thanks, I'll be more patient next time and let it cool slowly. Maybe that's why I had to anneal it several times? It seemed like a good idea at the time.
Thanks for the input, I would have done the same thing again.
Norm