I-Beam Bending (NPI/NPV)
Ankay Büküm bends NPI and NPV I-beam profiles into circular and semi-circular arcs for structural applications.
What Is NPI-NPV I-Beam Bending?
NPI-NPV bending is a metal forming process in which I-section steel profiles (NPI: narrow flange, NPV: parallel flange) are shaped into circular, semi-circular, or custom curved forms using hydraulic profile bending machines. Since these profiles serve as structural load-bearing elements, the bending process requires high precision and engineering expertise. At Ankay Büküm's Ankara Ostim facility, we bend a range of I-profiles from NPI 80 to NPI 300 and IPE 80 to IPE 400.
Application Areas
- Tunnels and Underground Structures: Tunnel support arches, metro station steel linings, and underground gallery reinforcements
- Steel Structures and Hangars: Main load-bearing elements of arched steel roofs, sports hall and exhibition venue dome structures
- Bridges: Curved girders for bridges, pedestrian overpasses, and viaduct elements
- Industrial Facilities: Circular platforms, rotary kiln supports, and large-diameter industrial frame structures
- Architectural Projects: Curved steel frames in modern architectural designs, glass roof supports, and decorative structural elements
Technical Capacity and Specifications
Our facility bends narrow-flange profiles from NPI 80 to NPI 300 and wide-flange profiles from IPE/HEA/HEB 80 to 400. Bending can be performed about the easy axis (perpendicular to profile axis) or the hard axis (parallel to profile axis). Minimum bending radius depends on profile size and is typically set at 6-8 times the profile height. Cold bending is preferred, with heat-assisted bending applied when necessary.
Quality Assurance
Since NPI-NPV bending involves structural steel elements, EN 1090-2 compliance is of paramount importance. After bending, every piece undergoes geometric inspection, deformation analysis, and ultrasonic testing when required. Deliveries are accompanied by EN 10204 3.1 certificates for material traceability.
Ankay Büküm stands out in structural steel profile bending with its modern Ankara Ostim facility and experienced team. For NPI and NPV profile bending needs ranging from tunnel projects to steel roofs, bridge girders to architectural designs, reach out to our technical team. With over 30 years of industry experience, we are ready to add value to your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NPI-NPV bending and what is it used for?
NPI-NPV bending is the process of curving I-section steel profiles into circular or arched forms. It is used to manufacture tunnel support arches, arched roof load-bearing elements, and curved bridge girders.
What profile sizes can be bent?
NPI 80 to NPI 300 and IPE 80 to IPE 400 I-profiles are processed. Both narrow-flange (NPI) and parallel-flange (IPE/NPV) profiles can be bent.
What is Ankay Büküm's NPI-NPV bending capacity?
NPI profiles up to size 300 and IPE profiles up to 400 are processed using cold bending methods. Minimum bending radius is set at 6-8 times the profile height.
What products are made with NPI-NPV bending?
Tunnel support arches, arched roof structural profiles, curved bridge girders, circular platforms, and architectural curved steel frames are manufactured.
How are pricing and delivery times determined?
Price is calculated on a project basis according to profile size, bending radius, quantity, and material grade. Standard projects are delivered within 5-10 business days. Technical consultation is arranged for special projects.

