Press brake

Machine for bending sheet and plate material

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A press brake bending a sheet of steel

A press brake is a type of brake, a machine used for bending sheet metal and metal plate. It forms predetermined bends by clamping the workpiece between a matching top tool and bottom die.

Typical press brakes consist of two C-frames forming the sides, connected to a table at the bottom and a movable beam at the top. The bottom tool is mounted on the table, while the top tool is mounted on the upper beam.

Types

A brake can be described by basic parameters such as force or tonnage and working length; additional parameters include stroke length, distance between frame uprights, distance to back gauge, and work height. The upper beam usually operates at a speed ranging from 1 to 15 mm/s.

Common types of press brakes include nut-stop hydraulic, synchro hydraulic, electric, and hybrid models. Hydraulic presses operate using synchronized hydraulic cylinders, while servo-electric brakes utilize a servo-motor for tonnage exertion.

Historically, mechanical presses, driven by flywheels and electric motors, dominated the market. However, advancements in hydraulics and computer controls have led to the popularity of hydraulic machines.

Modern press brakes can be controlled by NC (Numeric Controlled) or CNC (Computer Numeric Controlled) systems. While an NC controller has a lower initial cost, CNC controllers offer long-term cost savings.

Hydraulic brakes provide accurate, high-quality products, are energy-efficient, and feature improved safety mechanisms, allowing ram motion to be halted immediately when needed.

Back gauge

Recent improvements include advancements in control systems and back gauges, devices that accurately position metal for precise bending operations. Computer-controlled back gauges enhance the automation of the bending process, with optical sensors providing real-time adjustments for optimal accuracy.

Dies

Press brakes utilize various die designs for different forming tasks, including:

• V-dies for diverse material handling
• Rotary bending dies for cylindrical shapes
• 90-degree dies for bottoming operations
• Gooseneck dies for flange clearance
• Hemming dies that combine acute angles with flattening
• Corrugating dies with a wavy surface
• And more specialized die types...

See also

Further reading

For more details, visit Hydraulic Bending Press.

How Does a Press Brake Work? A Quick Guide

I. What Is A Press Brake

The press brake is a versatile machine used in various industries for bending sheet metal precisely. Different bending processes, including mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and servo-electric, are employed to achieve desired shapes and angles.

II. How does A Press Brake Work

Modern press brakes are mainly mechanical or hydraulic, with the CNC hydraulic press brake offering the highest precision. Each type of press brake has distinct advantages and disadvantages critical for production efficiency.

III. How to set up a press brake?

Setting up a press brake involves understanding the bending workpiece's specifications, selecting the appropriate bending method and die, and determining the required tonnage based on the material and design.

IV. Cases and Application

Industries such as automotive, aerospace, home appliances, construction, and more utilize press brakes for producing components requiring precision and structural integrity.

V. Common Faults of Press Brakes and Solutions

Addressing common faults such as pressure issues, slow ram descent, and inconsistencies in bending can enhance press brake functionality.

VI. Conclusion

Press brakes encompass various types like mechanical, CNC, and hydraulic. Regardless of advances, their fundamental operation remains consistent, with modern machines significantly improving bending accuracy and efficiency.

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