What are relief holes used for in metalworking?

Relief holes are specifically designed to prevent cracking during the bending process of metalworking. When metal is bent, it experiences tension on the outer side and compression on the inner side. If the metal is bent beyond its capabilities, particularly in areas with stress concentration, cracks can develop. By incorporating relief holes, you effectively redistribute stress, allowing the metal to bend more easily and reducing the likelihood of crack formation. This is especially important in operations where a tight bend radius is required, as it helps ensure the integrity of the material throughout the bending process.