All You Need To Know About Press Brakes

As one of the more conventional methods of processing metal materials the press brake also commonly known as a brake press, has been around for over a hundred years. In reality, did you know that the first brake was invented in 1882?

The machine, also referred to as the cornice brake during the nineteenth century America, was constructed from custom-made cast iron parts that were attached to pieces of oak. It used a manual operated leaf which required a piece sheet metal that was bent into straight lines. Talk about laborious pressing! Learn more about the history behind the press brake here.

Today presses have advanced into sophisticated machines that are powered by hydraulic systems and computer technology. Modern brakes can bend sheet and plate metal with ease, and are able to serve a wide range of industries using simple or intricate components.

Press Brake Forming

Press brakes are operated by dies and punches that are set at predetermined angles to bend or cut metal into a variety designs and shapes. Check out the video above to witness our 230-ton Cincinnati Proform brake in action!

Breathing is determined by force (also called tonnage). It is the amount of force that the punch is able to exert when it bends. The more tonnage is available and vice versa the more materials are able to be bent.

The length of the bending is also a factor. It refers to the length at which sheet metal that can be bent. If your machine has a 14-foot bending length and the sheet is longer than 14 feet will not be be bent by that machine.

To ensure proper fabrication, the process and material thickness will dictate the type of equipment required. These factors are crucial because they determine the press brake's load limit, which is measured in tonnage per inch.

It is vital to know the machine's load limit and the press power. If the wrong length or tonnage is used, it can cause damage or even complete destruction. This article will provide more information on the limits of the press brake's tonnage.

Different types of brakes for press

Modern presses brakes are safer and take less effort than previous models. Modern brakes have enhanced the quality, speed and efficiency of metal bending. There are three kinds of modern brakes: hydraulic, manual and computer numerical control.

Manual Press Brakes: Also called sheet metal brakes, they are the most popular brakes. Manual brake presses are used to adjust the angle and the bending dimensions during every cut. They are also used to produce in bulk set bending sizes.

Hydraulic Press Brakes These brake presses make use of two hydraulic cylinders, which allow for greater control and more reliable strokes. They can be classified according to how they move, upwards or downwards, each with its own unique advantages.

CNC Press Brakes: These brakes are the most precise and customizable. They use computer technology to boost the efficiency of their operation and improve control. When using CNC hydraulic press brake presses, the data like bending angles, plate thickness, width and grade are entered into a controller by a trained operator. The brake then handles the rest. Find out more about Boyd Metals' press brakes!