Accurate springback prediction of wide sheet metal air bending process is important to improve product quality and ensure the precision in dimension. The definition of elastic limit bend angle was proposed. Based on cantilever beam elastic deforming theory, the geometrical parameters of forming tools, sheet thickness and the material yielding strain were derived and validated by the finite element method (FEM). Employing the degree of elastic limit bend angle, the equation for springback prediction was constructed, the results calculated fit well with experimental data. Especially for the small bend angle, the predicted results by equation were applied to conduct the springback prediction and compensation in industries and give closer correlation to the experimental data than those calculated by engineering theory of plastic bending.
