Suggestions for straightening aluminum pole sections?

[griffin]

Our screen-house got flattened in high winds awhile back, resulting in some of the aluminum pole sections getting bent. They didn’t break, but the structure now leans quite a bit when we set it up.

Any suggestions for straightening out the poles a bit without busting them, or otherwise making things worse? Most of the sections in question are straight, but two are L-shaped, with the bend in the long side of the L.

 

[bikehikeskifish]

Aluminum is tough to cold set, especially undoing one. Aluminum bicycle frames are easily damaged in cases where steel frames can be bent back. My brother-in-law's boat top aluminum frame was damaged and we had to cut it, straighten it, and weld it in the straightened out position.

Tim

 

[sardog1]

You're probably better off sliding a slightly larger sleeve over the damaged section, in this fashion (if you can find the right tubing): How to Repair a Tent Pole

 

[Stash]

Bent and repaired a hiking pole a few years ago. The fix I used here is still holding fine...

Pole Fix Thread

 

[Chip]

You're probably better off sliding a slightly larger sleeve over the damaged section, in this fashion (if you can find the right tubing): How to Repair a Tent Pole

I agree. Bent aluminum needs a sleeve.

 

[Lost Dad]

I made up a quick jig using scrap wood and a C-Clamp to repair bent poles for the Boy Scout Troop that I work with; it works great. However, it will not work once you have gone to the point of kinking the aluminum. I have straightened many tent poles and I have also straightened an aluminum trailer tongue so I know that it can be done. The trick is careful force and the ability to bend the item a bit further that necessary as it will spring back.
I will be happy to send photos, but I do not have the ability to post photos, Send me a PM with an email address and I will send the photos. I also have no problem if the photos make it to this site through the generosity of others.

 

[griffin]

Hi Lost Dad - that would be helpful, thank you! I just sent you a pm.

The sections aren't kinked, fortunately. I'd have to unbend them to fit a sleeve over the top, although that might be worth doing if the metal seems weakened by the process. Thanks everyone for the input!

 

[Paradox]

Hi Lost Dad - that would be helpful, thank you! I just sent you a pm.

The sections aren't kinked, fortunately. I'd have to unbend them to fit a sleeve over the top, although that might be worth doing if the metal seems weakened by the process. Thanks everyone for the input!

Hardware store and plumbing supply houses carry a set of sleeves that are spring steel coils of various sizes. Slide the smallest sleeve that will fit, over the bent pole. Find a large tree and use your body weight to bend gently against the tree.
http://www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-8...8&qid=1351090429&sr=1-45&keywords=pipe+bender

You can also take the bent sections to a hardware store. They might have a pipe bending unit that can do an even more controlled (un)bending. You may have to rent the unit depending on how well you know the proprietor.
http://www.amazon.com/Woodward-Fab-...8&qid=1351090554&sr=1-22&keywords=pipe+bender