Press Brake

Bench
The bench or bed is the fixed part under the beam where the dies are installed. It can contain a crowning system to compensate for the crossbar deformation, especially in machines two meters/6' wide and up. Such a system can be found in a variety of versions which embrace different design philosophies among manufacturers or are based on specific machine types or families. Excellent results are possible through the use of a hydraulic crowning system. In this case, a number of high pressure and low flow rate cylinders are inserted within the machine bench to compensate for the frame deformation during the pressing phase by producing a counterforce from underneath.

Lateral Frames
Represent the side plates or shoulders that define the width of the machine frame. These can also be different: for example, machines with synchronized hydraulics almost always have a gap, called throat, so a sheet that is wider than the distance between the shoulders or columns can be inserted into the machine frame.

Punch
This tool replicates the desired bend profile and makes direct contact with the sheet metal. Punches come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different bend angles and materials.

Die
The die is the stationary counterpart to the punch, providing the form for the bend. It can be a simple V-shaped die for basic bends or a more complex shape for specific profiles.

Clamping System
This mechanism securely holds the sheet metal in place during the bending process, ensuring accuracy and preventing slipping.

CNC
The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) is the core of the machine. The operator interface device used to program the sequence of machine movements through direct input of parameters/programs or off-line programs, which are normally created by the technical department as directed by the production management. Very often the CNC allows several setting/input options such as numerical mode or graphic mode: the former requires the operator to enter the data for the desired part directly in the appropriate fields on the program screen; the latter is more user-friendly, especially for a non-expert operator, and requires the use of 2D or 3D graphics showing the shape of the desired end product as well as the bending sequence.

Sheet Metal Supports
These are very often optional accessories. If fixed and sliding on a guide, they only serve to support heavy and/or bulky workpieces during processing. If mobile (followers), they serve to “accompany” or follow, the sheet metal as it swings due to the bend forming process. They work during both upward and downward sheet movements.

Rear Backgauge
This device ensures that the bend is positioned correctly in the part to be produced. It usually consists of a beam on which two or more "finger stops" (backgauges) are mounted. They are able to move sideways to find the correct position.