Bending is a metalworking operation in which a metal blank is deformed into the required three-dimensional shape. In metalworking, blanks made of sheet, strip, and round stock are often bent at an angle or to a specific radius, or formed into curves of different shapes, such as angles, loops, and brackets.
Sheet metal is bent using specialized equipment called press brakes. By operating principle, metal bending machines can be divided into several types:
- Universal. The sheet is placed in a secured die and formed into the required shape with a punch. Punches are available in various designs that differ in shape and size, such as the angle. The die usually has an angular groove.
- Rotary. This machine consists of a crossbeam, or bending beam, and a back gauge. The clamping beam secures the sheet metal to the machine bed, while the bending beam forms it. In essence, the bending beam is the machine’s main working element.
- Rotational. This equipment may include several shafts or rolls that rotate around their axes. The working rolls can also move vertically. The sheet is placed between the rolls, and their vertical movement controls the final bending radius. After passing between the rotating rolls, the sheet takes the required shape.
