Understanding Press Brakes: Key Features and Benefits for Industries

A press brake is a vital tool of the fabrication trade that’s designed to bend sheets and plates of metal. It operates by securing the metal between a v-shaped die and punch. The backgauge adjusts the metal to the precise size that is needed, and then the punch presses the material into the die, creating the specified bend.

Through the use of interchangeable dies and punches, press brakes are capable of handling different metals of varying thickness. While some press brakes are still manually operated, many modern press brakes have the option of Computer Numerical Controls (or “CNC” as it is more commonly known as), an automotive tool that allows for machine control commands and pre-programmed sequences. The choice between hydraulic and non-hydraulic press brakes depends largely on the specific requirements of the fabrication project, including the type of material being worked with, the desired precision, and the overall scale of production.

You can browse the wide range of Applied Machinery press brakes here, or scroll down to learn the many benefits that press brakes can offer your business.

Why Do We Need Press Brakes?

Press brakes are known for their precision bending, their adaptability, and their consistency. The versatility and convenience of the press brakes has made this humble machine an indispensable tool across a wide range of industries that rely on high production working environments; from automotive, and aerospace, to construction and agriculture.

Applied Machinery's Range of Press Brakes

Applied Machinery offers a varied range of Australia’s most popular CNC press brakes of premium quality build, that can optimise any high production working environment.

Yawei: Yawei is one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial machines. Their high quality Yawei CNC press brakes are as reliable as they are user-friendly. These high quality machines have helped countless industries undertake massive projects.

Dener: If you’re after a reliable non-hydraulic solution for your press brake needs, you can’t do much better than the Dener Servo Electric Press Brake. This advanced next generation machine is made with green eco-friendly technology that delivers flexibility and dependable accuracy.

Metalmax Synchro: Offering advanced Y-axis control algorithms and a full set of top and bottom tooling, the Metalmax Synchro MSP 125-1600 CNC3 and Metalmax Synchro MSP 125-3200 CNC4 are also equipped with Australian light guards to keep you and your crew safe.

Key Features

Applied Machinery stocks a wide selection of press brakes with features that can vastly improve any operation. Some of these features include:

Advance CNC Controllers: Computer Numerical Controls enhance machine precision and flexibility by allowing complex, programmable operations to be set easily.
High Quality Punchers: These fast and accurate punchers will guarantee consistency and optimise productivity with their fast and accurate bending.
Multi Axis Back Gauge System: This high end multi axis back gauge system provides a scope of reference points for accurate positioning of the workpiece, improving bend accuracy and reducing setup time.
Foot Pedal with Emergency Stop Button: This important safety mechanism allows the operator to halt machine operations instantly in case of an emergency.
Y1/Y2/X and Y2/Y2/X&R CNC Controls: These advanced control systems allow the operator to maintain precise control over multiple axes simultaneously, ensuring high-precision bends and better product quality.
Australian Light Guard System: Australian Light Guard System use light beams to detect any intrusion in the machine's work area, automatically stopping the machine to prevent injuries.
Diverse Blending Force: Press Benches offer a range of force options to accommodate different material types and thicknesses, allowing for versatile bending operations, with bending capacities available in 35 ton, 50 ton, and 110 ton.
A Range of Hydraulic Systems: Applied Machinery boasts a selection of high quality hydraulically synchronised CNC press brakes such as the Yawei PBC 50-2050 and the Yawei PBH 110-3100 CNC5 (66T).
Vertical Load Tooling Clamps: These high end clamps allow the user quick and secure tooling changes, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Power Saving Servo Motor: The power saving servo motor reduces energy consumption, lowers operating costs, and provides high efficiency and quieter operation.

Benefits of Choosing Applied Machinery's Pressbrakes

Applied Machinery only stocks the highest quality press brakes from the most reputable brands. Engineered with next-gen technology, they are designed to optimise the productivity of any operation, and made from premium grade materials, they are built to last. You can check out the extensive range of Applied Machinery press brakes here, or head over to the Applied Machinery website to browse a vast selection of other high quality products.

FAQs

What is the difference between hydraulic and non-hydraulic press brakes?

Hydraulic and non-hydraulic press brakes serve different purposes in metal fabrication, each suited to specific types of work based on the force required and the scale of the operation.

Hydraulic press brakes are essential in heavy-duty metal fabrication, using hydraulic systems to power the ram for substantial force across various speeds, making them perfect for bending thick, heavy metal sheets. They handle larger materials with consistent force, manage complex bends with precision, and offer adjustable pressure and speed for control over thick materials.
Conversly, non-hydraulic press brakes operate with a flywheel and clutch to power the ram, and may be better suited for lighter gauge materials or smaller operations. Non-hydraulic press brakes are simpler and cheaper than their hydraulic counterparts, which might make them faster and efficient when it comes to a high-volume production of thinner materials, but less adaptable when it comes to force and precision.

What are the different types of press brakes?

Press brakes are available in several varieties, such as the manual press brake, hydraulic press brake, and the CNC press brake.

Manual press brakes require that an operator manually position the workpiece and set the bending dimensions and angles, typically utilising a flywheel for power.
Conversely, CNC press brakes are controlled by computers, providing automation with higher precision, and greater accuracy. As such, CNC press brakes generally cost more than their manual alternatives, owing to their enhanced features and capability to operate autonomously.

What is the difference between press-brake and CNC press brake?

The chief distinction between CNC (Computer Numerical Control) and NC (Numerical Control) press brakes is in their operational and control mechanisms. CNC press brakes are outfitted with sophisticated computer systems that enable automated, programmable, and highly precise bending operations.

NC machines use a set program, usually stored on punch cards or tape, which the machine follows to execute its tasks. NC machines are more straightforward and typically more affordable than CNC machines; however, NC programs are less flexible and harder to alter than the programs used in CNC machines, which can be easily updated and modified through software. While NC machines do automate processes, they lack the dynamic control and advanced features provided by CNC technology, such as real-time adjustments and more extensive programmability.

Which press brake should I buy?

The best press brake for you will ultimately be determined by the materials you intend to work with, the space you have available for a press brake machine, and any other specific production requirements. The friendly team at Applied Machinery is always on stand to offer industry expertise, so if you have any questions about which press brake would best meet your requirements, you can chat to a team member here.

When deciding on a press brake for my metal bending needs, what should I consider?

You should always consider the type and thickness of the material, the length of the bend, the required bending force, and what precision is needed. It’s important to select a press brake that aligns with your material and bending specifications, ensuring that it can manage your workload both efficiently and with high accuracy.

What kind of service & support do you provide for press brake machines?

Applied Machinery Australia provides expert service support, installation, and training for a diverse range of machinery from various manufacturers. Our engineers possess comprehensive training in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic services and repairs. Additionally, we specialise in training and repairs for numerous types of machines, including Laser Processing Systems, CNC Press Brakes, CNC Guillotines, Bandsaws, Mills, Lathes, Turret Punch Presses, and CNC Lathes. Our repair expertise and training extends to Fibre Lasers, CNC Pressbrakes & Guillotines, CNC Milling Machines (3,4 and 5 axis), Turret Punch Presses, Bandsaws, Folders, Mills, Drills, Lathes and more.

Applied Machinery can also assist with routine maintenance schedules, factory relocation, and general consultation. If you’d like to talk to one of our talented team members, you can get in touch with Applied Machinery here.