It’s no secret that metal fabrication shops are the superheroes for all things sheet metal, including bending, forming, shaping, and cutting. These shops do it all, and the equipment required for such jobs are just as impressive as the operators who utilize them. The press brake is one of those machines, and it is capable of bending and shaping even the largest pieces of sheet metal. Here are the press brake bending basics and what you need to know about them.

It’s Not as Easy as You Might Think

Not only is press brake bending a precise science, but it’s also an art. So many factors come into play when configuring the perfect part. From an outsider’s perspective, it may seem like you toss the metal into the machine, punch in a few numbers, and out comes the final product. In reality, careful consideration is taken for the type of metal that’s being bent, the bending force required, the dies, the punches, and how many bends. All this needs to be preplanned before the job makes it to the machine; one minor miscalculation can result in a failed job.

Not All Machines Are Created Equal

Press brakes come in all different sizes and capabilities. Take careful consideration of the unique requirements of your organization. What type of force do you want out of your machine? Are you bending larger pieces of metal? Then a tandem press brake may be an option for you, as these machines are combined into two press brakes in order to manipulate larger metal jobs. Speed, accuracy, precision, automation, and software technology all should be taken into consideration when selecting the right press brake for your metal fabricating shop.

You Need To Be Safe

There are fundamentals of press brake safety that every operator needs to follow. Be sure to read the user manual thoroughly before operating your press brake. Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Do a run-through on the machine to make sure it’s clear of debris and other contaminates. Some press brakes come equipped with front and rear protection light curtains. These sensors prohibit the machine from operating if the sensor detects a blockage. Other machines offer foot pedals where the machine will only operate if the pedal is engaged.

What you need to know about press brake bending basics can be extensive and detailed. These industrial machines need to be operated precisely, as a slight miscalculation can mean big problems. If you are looking for a hydraulic press brake for your shop, check out Mac-Tech, as we offer various types of machines to suit whatever your metal fabricating needs are.

Similar Posts