Bending Aluminum Round Rod

[snub]

1/2" diameter, 6061 T6. I only need to bend it 5 degrees. Should I heat it up first, or do it cold. Any tips or tricks?

[Joules]

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/6061_aluminium_alloy

As it appears it can be forged, I would be tempted to add some heat, depending on final application as the material temper maybe affected.  Another thought is surface finish, you may mark or flat the surface whilst bending without formers.  If you have the material try both options, I would be interested in the results, especially with pictures included.

 

I might also add, how long is the part...  a 1m bar you can probably bend over your knee, but a 1” bar is a press job.

[snub]

The piece is 16" long (40 cm) and it needs to be bent 4" (10 cm) from the end.

[snub]

Here is what it will be replacing. As you can see, not much of a bend.

[Joules]

Just do it in the vice, use a ring spanner if you need some leverage and a tighter bend.

[snub]

Got it done. Wrapped copious quantities of electrical tape around it, put it in the vise, put a 2 foot piece of steel pipe over it, a few short tugs and all is well.

[Joules]

 

Fixed like a pro....