Bridge and bridge plate

[gilles]

Here's a random question;
I assume the bridge is radiused, but is the bridge plate radiused as well?

[Rudy4]

Depends on the builder.

I form a concave radius on the bridge bottom to mate with the top radius and form a convex radius on the bridge plate to mate with the radiused top.

[gilles]

I understand for the bridge, but to radius a plate @ 30' radius, you would need to start with a plate 7-8mm thick. I am assuming that a 2mm plate would bend and take the shape of the top.

[Rudy4]

Originally Posted by gilles

I understand for the bridge, but to radius a plate @ 30' radius, you would need to start with a plate 7-8mm thick. I am assuming that a 2mm plate would bend and take the shape of the top.

I start with a thicker bridge plate, form the convex mating radius, and thin the overall plate to the required dimension. If you're using a hardwood bridge plate (recommended) then forcing it to conform to the top radius isn't going to be the best option for producing a strong and stress-free mechanical joint.