How to Form a Wire Bead
By Ron Nadia

Tools:

- Pliers with jaws ground smooth and stop pin welded

- 20 year old hammer worn flat on bottom, works great

- Back up rods made of scrap

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Begin bending up lip.

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Bump over about 120 degrees, leave room for wire.
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Lock the wire in by hammering over. You can use the pliers to pinch closed the roll over. Caution, slip = blood blister. See next step for alternate method.
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I prefer to close the lip using a hammer and dolly. Lay down a thin piece of aluminum or poster board to eliminate the hammers slide marks.

I have used this method for 25 years. For me it is quicker than changing the rollers in the Pexto or the dies in the Pullmax. Ron Naida

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Here is a quick sketch of a tool idea that Ron's photos inspired -- however it should also include a stop -- like Rons pliers and the leverage should be different, but you get the idea. -- Terry



Copyright 2004 Metalshapers Association