Metals, as they are extracted from nature, can seldom be used in their raw form. They go through several processes which help transform them into a useful state.
Several equipment can be used to modify the shape and size of metals, but one of the most common is the press brake. Let’s look at what is a press brake and how it works.
Press Brake – Overview
A press brake is a part of the manufacturing equipment that is used to modify the shape of metal sheets. Since metals are ductile (they can bend to an extent before they break), a press brake capitalizes on this property of metals and modify their shape so that they become more useful.
Typically, a press brake is long and narrow equipment that allows the bending of larger pieces of metal sheets. It usually has two sections, a top section that holds the punch and a lower section with a matching die. Together, the two parts move several times, bending the metal until it achieves the desired form.
A press brake is essential equipment in the metal deformation industry and has wide industrial applications.
Types of Press Brakes and How Do They Work?
There are several types of press brakes, which can often be categorized as
Manual Press Brake
This is the most common type of press brake. As the name suggests, this type of press brake requires you to manually adjust the bending dimensions and angles. Manual press brakes have a more complicated mode of action compared to other types of press brake. Therefore, you have to repeatedly adjust the bending size and angle for larger batch production.
How Do They Work?
Manual press brakes contain a work table, a clamping plate, and supporters. The worktable consists of a base and a pressure plate and is attached to the supporters. As you work with a manual press brake, don't forget to adjust the bending angle and dimensions continually.
Hydraulic Press Brake
Another common type of press brake that is used to bend metals is the hydraulic press brake. Hydraulic press brakes are more accurate and use a high amount of force through hydraulic pistons.
How Do They Work?
A hydraulic press brake uses a hydraulic motor's power to apply pressure on the metal and compress it. Again, just like manual press brake, hydraulic press brakes have a punch and a matching die that gives the metal's required shape. Moreover, it is more accurate compared to manual press brakes.
CNC Press Brake
The most accurate and precise type of press brake is the CNC press brake. It is a modernized and more accurate version of the hydraulic press brake that is controlled by computers.
How Do They Work?
A CNC works quite similarly to a hydraulic press brake; however, the difference is that it is controlled by slider stroke and back gauge. All you have to do is input the number of pieces that require bending along with the bending angle and get the job done with almost 100% accuracy.