Press brake machines have been serving for decades. However, the introduction of the CNC system has lifted their performance. CNC-based machines are fast and offer matchless precision. Despite their countless perks, many people are still not aware of them. So, they ask: What is a CNC press brake machine, and how does it work?
Are you in the metal fabrication industry unaware of these primary CNC machines? If your answer is YES – you’re missing an ample opportunity. You could simply double or triple your production efficiency using press brakes. But don’t regret it as the time is yet there. I’ll spill everything about these CNC press brakes. So, let’s get started!
CNC press brake machines use a computerized system to bend the workpiece. They have top-notch precision and are fast working due to the CNC system. It applies force to the material by following your programmed instructions. Therefore, it creates bends or shapes precisely similar to what you want.
In the past, the manufacturer had to use the manual press brakes. They were slow, inaccurate, and required human labor. But technological evolution has taken over. CNC technology was introduced in press brakes in the 1970s. However, in the early days, it was not very famous.
The manufacturers were more comfortable with old machines. However, as time passed, manufacturing demands increased. As a result, they had to shift to CNC press brakes. These machines work very fast and offer quick turnaround to the manufacturers.
What sets them apart is their ideal precision. When a human operates a machine, there are some chances of error. However, these CNC press brakes use computerized programs, so their chances of making errors are nearly zero. However, these machines are more expensive than manual press brakes.
How Does a CNC Press Brake Machine Work?
CNC press brakes work similarly to manual machines. However, they use a CNC system, which is a significant difference. These CNC brakes include punches, dies, rams, and other components like manual machines. However, the movement of tools and their power is controlled by a computerized system. Let’s understand how these machines work.
1- Design Creation & Instructions
First, the operator creates a CAD design of the required shape. This is one of the most crucial steps, as the final shape will be similar to this CAD design. This CAD model will indicate the bending angle at which you want the material to be bent. Once the design is made, the operator puts it into CAM software.
This CAM software takes a design and creates G-code instructions. Keep in mind that computerized systems only understand coded instructions. The initial design is changed into codes. The CNC press brake has a digital screen or interface. The operator feeds this coded instruction to the machine.
2- Positioning of Material
Once instructions are fed, the next step is to set up the machine. The operator will place or position the workpiece in the machine’s bed. However, there can be an issue as the machinist can make mistakes while positioning the material.
Imagine an operator positioning the workpiece slightly wrong. If this happens, the machine’s accuracy will be affected. CNC machines come with a particular component called gauge back to avoid this issue. This helps keep the material in place so the machine’s precision isn’t affected by operator mistakes.
3- Setting up the Tools & Working of the Machine
The next step is using a suitable die and punch according to the required shape. As you know, different types of dies and punches are specific for achieving particular angles and bends. The operator must use the right punch and secure it on the ram. Remember that the ram is part of the CNC machine that holds the punch. Moreover, the selection of dies is also crucial.
Once the operator has set the tools, he will switch the machine on. As a result, the computerized system understands fed-coded instructions. As per instruction, the machine will lower the ram-holding punch. The punch will press the die placed on the workpiece. But the question is: how much force will punch apply on the die?
The computerized system controls the force the punch puts on the die. The CNC system automatically decides how much force will be needed to bend. This system analyzes the coded instruction and determines the force to bend at a specific angle. The CNC brake machine has two configurations or structures.
- Up forming bending
- Down forming bending
The up-forming configuration allows shallow downward bending. On the flip side, the down-forming setting ensures a pronounced or upward bend. The operator uses different settings according to the needs of the designs. This indicates that the CNC press brake machines can efficiently match up to any bending and create different angles.
4- Feedback System
The CNC press brake has many sensors and feedback systems. These components enhance the precision of this machine. How? They monitor the workings of the machines and their parts. If they notice any deviation from any machine part, they immediately inform the CNC system.
Based on this feedback, the computerized system removes the error. In this way, the manufacturers get 100% precise bends. Along with precision, these machines are super fast. They can create around 900 to 950 bends per hour. The operator can create CAD designs and get different bends from these machines.
Advantages of Using CNC Press Brake Machines
Do you know the use of CNC press brakes is increasing? The reason is that this machine offers more unique perks than old machines. Let’s dive and break down some of its advantages. This will help you know whether you should buy it or not.
1- Precision with Speed
The CNC Press brake machine is accurate because it works with computerized automation. Moreover, it has a feedback system. If any part deviates from the computerized instruction, the sensor provides feedback to the machine.
As a result, it acts to remove that error or deviation. This makes the CNC press brake very reliable. Moreover, their work is high-speed. An average CNC-based press brake can create double bends in an hour compared to manual machines. These machines offer exceptional repeatability. You’ll be able to make as many bends as you want quickly.
2- Production Efficiency
Manual press brakes require a dedicated team of operators. If an operator makes a mistake, there is no way to correct it. The machine will create a wrong bend. Moreover, the involvement of maximum human efforts made the work slow.
However, these CNC press brakes don’t require much manual intervention. Instead, one operator is enough for the machine to make thousands of bends. This makes the process fast and increases production efficiency. All the operator needs to do is feed G-code instruction; that’s it. These machines will take care of the rest.
3- Profitability & Cost Effective
I am sure you would argue these CNC press brakes are costly. That’s true, and I agree with it. However, they are still very economical and cost-effective. Let me give you some strong logic. These machines don’t show wear and tear more often. Moreover, you can do more work with these machines as a business.
On the flip side, manual press brakes have many issues. Their regular maintenance adds cost. Additionally, they can do a limited amount of work. This reduces the manufacturer’s production efficiency. As a result, he fails to meet the deadlines and remains at a loss.
However, these machines are different. They can work day and night, helping the manufacturing department meet deadlines. In this way, the manufacturer earns more. In the end, they prove to be more profitable. Despite their high initial cost, they are more lucrative in terms of profitability. Their precision puts your business to the next level.
What are the Characteristics of CNC Press Brakes?
CNC press brakes come with both hydraulic and electric systems. However, CNC machines that use hydraulic systems have extreme power. Their high tonnage allows them to quickly create a complex and shallow bend. Confused about where to buy such a powerful machine?
Worry not! At Miharmle, we manufacture CNC Hydraulic Press Brakes that are both reliable and strong. Let’s explore some salient features of our manufactured CNC press brake:
- Our press brakes consist of a steel welded frame and assembly. The steel construction ensures our machine’s durability over the long haul.
- We use the most updated software and interfaces. Our machine computer system can store the design and coded instructions. So, if you need any design next time, go into memory and use it. This additional hassle of making designs and codes again.
- Our hydraulic CNC press brakes are versatile. They can work with various materials, such as steel, aluminum, and copper. No matter how thick the material is, our machine will bend it.
- What better than a machine with the features you require? We also offer customization features on our machines. You can place the order and tell them what you need in the machines. We will carefully analyze your requirements and offer you a customized press machine.
We know the hassle of operating the machines. Therefore, our manufacturing team ensures that the machine is simple to use. So, even if you are a layman, you can efficiently handle it. Do these features excite you? You can reach us and get more insight.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a CNC Press Brake Machine
CNC press brake machines are expensive—there is no doubt about it. Imagine spending your budget and ending up buying a low-quality machine. A machine that does not fulfill your needs is useless. Want to avoid such a pesky scratch situation?
If so, there are some factors that you must consider when choosing a press machine. They are a small checklist, so ticking them will help you avoid regret. Here is their list:
- Bending Capacity: Check the bending capacity before buying a CNC press brake. Some machines are small and have low bending capacity. If you own a business, I recommend you buy a machine with a high bending capacity. It will allow you to bend material of all thicknesses with ease.
- Right Type: There are two types of CNC press brakes: hydraulic and electric. Hydraulic machines are generally mighty and have high tonnage. They are suitable for heavy-duty work. Electric ones are less powerful but quiet and provide a smooth experience.
- Tools Compatibility: Your chosen CNC machines must be compatible with different tools. You might need different dies depending on the bending shape while working. If your machine isn’t compatible, it would put you at a loss. Wondering how to check tooling compatibility? Read the specification label placed on the machine’s box.
- Safety Features: I always prioritize safety and urge you to do the same. Operators remain close to the machine when working because they change tools. Therefore, machines must have some safety assurance to help in accidental situations.
- Suitable Manufacturer: Last, but not least, selecting the right manufacturer is paramount. You should buy press brakes from a dealer with a warranty and responsive customer support. The warranty will ensure that if the machine gets faulty, you can return it.
Conclusion
CNC press brakes have become popular. Even small manufacturers have started shifting to these machines. This revolution is all due to the CNC system of these machines. As their use is increasing, it is crucial to understand their work. The true but sad reality is that these machine mechanisms are pretty complex.
The reason is that they use many parts and complexes based on the latest technology. However, I broke down their work in the simplest way possible. If you want to buy a high-quality machine, Miharmle can be your savior. You won’t have to worry about anything as we offer a warranty on our machines.