What is a hydraulic press brake?
The sheet is placed on a V-shaped lower die, and the upper punch descends to bend it. Hydraulic cylinders at each end of the beam provide the force, and a back gauge positions the sheet so each bend lands in the same place. Modern machines use CNC controls to store programmes for many parts, and tooling can be changed to produce different bends and profiles.
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List your companyHydraulic Press Brake or mechanical press brake?
A hydraulic press brake gives controllable force and an adjustable stroke, and is easier to fit with CNC and safety systems. A mechanical press brake is faster on repeat work but has a fixed stroke and less flexibility.
What to specify when you ask for a quote
- Bending length and force in tons, for the longest and thickest part in your range.
- Throat depth and daylight for the part shape and the tooling you will use.
- Back gauge: number of axes and the repeatability it can hold.
- Controller brand and the programming support available locally.
- Tooling: standard or special, the clamping system, and the tools supplied.
- Safety systems, such as light curtains, and the service support after delivery.
Where it is used
- Industrial MachineryBent frames, guards, covers and enclosures.
- ElectricalPanels, cabinets and busbar supports.
- ConstructionBent sections for fabrication and cladding.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the tonnage of a press brake?
It depends on the material, thickness, bend length and die opening. Ask the maker to calculate the force for your hardest and thickest bend, and choose a machine with a margin above it.
What does the back gauge do?
It positions the sheet so that bends are in the right place and repeat accurately. More axes mean it can handle more complex parts without manual adjustment.
What is the difference between a standard and a CNC press brake?
A CNC press brake stores programmes, controls the stroke and back gauge and shortens set-up time, which pays back with varied parts. A standard machine is simpler and suits repeat work with fixed set-ups.