The press brake is primarily a machine tool that is utilized for bending a metal sheet or plate, into a shape which is determined by its die set. It forms preset bends by tightly holding the workpiece between the punch and die set. Usually it has two C shaped frames on both the sides. It is firmly connected to a table at the bottom and has a moveable beam at the top. The top tool is mounted on the upper beam, whereas the bottom tool is mounted on the table. It is actually a multi purpose fabricating machine, and therefore suitable for several types of metal forming operations.
It has the capability to deliver force in a limited vertical space in order to punch or bend the metal sheet. A variety are now available in the market. However, they are mainly categorized as mechanical or hydraulic, depending on the means of applying force. In the early days, mechanical brakes were mostly used. And later on with the advancement in technology, the hydraulic press brakes were introduced in the market.
Choosing a specific type mainly depends on the material to be used, the type of operation, as well as the rate of output. This versatile press brake is utilized for various types of forming operations using different kinds of dies. The numerous applications of different kinds of press brakes are described further. Actually these are regarded as an essential part of several manufacturing industries. Hence they are commonly used in a wide range of industrial segments such as wood, metal, automobile, rubber, plastic, etc. It can be used to produce the metal plates of front, back and side panels of a computer. It is also utilized for manufacturing metal brackets, frames and cabinets.
Mechanical Press Brake
It has a flywheel that is powered by an electric motor. It also has a clutch that engages the flywheel to initiate the crank mechanism, for moving the ram in the vertical direction. This machine exerts pressure in order to form, shape, or cut a material; extract liquids, or compress solids. A mechanically driven has a fixed tonnage, and exerts more force at the bottom of its stroke as compared to the halfway point. The two major benefits of mechanical press brake are speed and accuracy.
Hydraulic Press Brake
It functions through two synchronized hydraulic cylinders on the C
frames, in order to move the upper beam. This machine exerts a great force on the larger piston in a pair of hydraulically coupled cylinders; whereas a relatively smaller force is applied to the smaller piston. They use hydraulic oil or fluid pressure as a source of energy. These are easy to use and maintain. They are basically high speed, compact machines that are more precise and use less power. Moreover, this machine is highly reliable and hence much safer than the mechanical press brakes.
The objective of this article is to educate readers about different types of press brakes and their industrial applications.
