Panel benders, folding machines, and other alternatives for bending big sheet metal workpieces

Have operators who strain their backs lifting large panels during the press brake forming cycle? It doesn’t have to be that way.

1/31/2018

Historically it’s been common to see two brake operators straining to lift a large panel as it whips up during the forming cycle. Working with thin panels, they take care to support the work to ensure gravity’s effect on the portion of the workpiece whipping upward doesn’t distort the resulting bend. They also take care to get out of the workpiece’s way. Being hit by a workpiece whipping up during the bending cycle isn’t very pleasant. A press brake that is lifting a large unsupported workpiece during the forming cycle also can increase the forming tonnage required.

Read the full article in The Fabricator

January 31, 2018