How to Choose a Press Brake

Introduction

Choosing the wrong press brake can increase production costs by up to 30%. Are you struggling to determine what size press brake do I need for your specific applications?  Selecting the right press brake is a critical investment that can significantly impact your bottom line. This guide will help you navigate the world of sheet metal bending and metal forming to find the perfect press brake machine.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a press brake, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Ready to optimize your metal forming process? Download our free “Press Brake Selection Checklist” to ensure you don’t miss any crucial considerations! 

Understanding Press Brakes

What is a Press Brake?

A press brake is a metal forming machine used to bend sheet metal and plate into desired shapes. It applies controlled force to the workpiece, creating precise and repeatable bends. Press brakes are essential tools in a wide range of industries, from automotive and aerospace to construction and electronics.

Types of Press Brakes:

• Mechanical Press Brakes: Known for their high speed and consistent stroke, mechanical press brakes are suitable for repetitive, high-volume sheet metal bending operations. However, they typically offer lower precision compared to other types.

• Hydraulic Press Brakes:Hydraulic press brakes are versatile and offer high precision, making them ideal for a wide range of bending applications. They provide adjustable stroke length and force, allowing for greater control over the bending process.

• Electric Press Brakes:Electric press brakes are energy-efficient and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice for many businesses. They offer precise control and are well-suited for applications requiring high accuracy.

• Hybrid Press Brakes:Hybrid press brakes combine the benefits of both hydraulic and electric systems, offering a balance of speed, precision, and energy efficiency. They are often used in demanding applications where high performance is critical.

 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Press Brake

Choosing the right press brake requires careful consideration of several factors:

Material Type and Thickness:

• • Different materials require different bending forces. Steel, aluminum, and stainless steel each have unique properties that affect the press brake tonnage calculation.

  • Use a tonnage chart to determine the appropriate press brake capacity based on the material type, thickness, and bend length.

• Bend Length and Complexity:

  • The bend length determines the required machine size and capacity.

  • Complex bends may require specialized press brake tooling, such as gooseneck punches or radius dies.

  • Consider the complexity of your parts and choose a press brake with the appropriate tooling options.

• Production Volume:

  • High-volume production requires a press brake with high speed and automation capabilities.

  • Low-volume production may be better suited for a more versatile machine with manual controls.

  • Consider automation options such as CNC controls and robotic arms to increase productivity.

• Precision and Accuracy:

  • The required level of precision and accuracy depends on the industry and application.

  • Look for press brakes with advanced backgauge systems and CNC controls to ensure accurate and repeatable bends.

  • Consider the tolerance requirements for your parts and choose a press brake that can meet those requirements.

• Space and Power Requirements:

  • Consider the machine footprint and installation requirements.

  • Ensure your facility has adequate electrical and hydraulic power to support the press brake.

  • Factor in the cost of installation and any necessary upgrades to your facility.

• Budget and ROI:

  • Consider the initial cost of the press brake, as well as long-term savings from increased efficiency and reduced maintenance.

  • Factor in operational costs such as electricity, tooling, and labor.

  • Calculate the return on investment (ROI) to determine the overall value of the press brake.

Types of Press Brakes and Their Applications

• Hydraulic Press Brakes:

  • Best For: General-purpose sheet metal bending, offering versatility and high precision.

  • Applications: Automotive (chassis components), Construction (structural steel), HVAC (ductwork).

• Electric Press Brakes:

  • Best For:Energy efficient and low-maintenance operations requiring precise control.

  • Applications: Electronics (enclosures), Medical Devices (surgical instruments), Aerospace (small components).

• Mechanical Press Brakes:

  • Best For: High-speed, simple bends in mass production environments.

  • Applications: Appliance Manufacturing (brackets), Automotive (stamping), Hardware (fasteners).

• Hybrid Press Brakes:

  • Best For: Combining speed, precision, and energy efficiency for demanding applications.

  • Applications: Aerospace (complex structural parts), High-Precision Fabrication (custom components).

Top 5 Press Brake Features to Look for in 2024

• CNC Control Systems:

  • Benefits: Precise, repeatable bends, reduced setup time, and increased productivity.

  • Popular Brands: Delem, Cybelec, ESA.

• Automatic Tool Changers:

Benefits: Reduces setup time, increases productivity, and minimizes the risk of errors.

• Laser-Guided Backgauges:

  • Benefits: Ensures accurate positioning for complex bends, reduces scrap, and improves bend quality.

• Energy-Efficient Hydraulics:

  • Benefits: Reduces power consumption, lowers operational costs, and minimizes environmental impact. Choosing an energy efficient press brake option is key.

• Press Brake Safety Features:

  • Benefits: Protects operators from injury and ensures a safe working environment.

  • Essential Features: Light curtains, two-hand operation, emergency stops.

How to Choose the Right Supplier

• Experience and Reputation:

  • Look for manufacturers with a proven track record of producing high-quality press brakes.

  • Check customer reviews and case studies to assess their reputation.

• Customization Options:

  • Ensure the supplier can tailor machines to your specific needs and requirements.

  • Look for suppliers that offer a wide range of press brake tooling options and accessories.

• After-Sales Support:

  • Choose a supplier that provides comprehensive after-sales support, including technical assistance, spare parts, and training.

  • Ensure they have a responsive and knowledgeable support team.

• Certifications:

  • Verify that the supplier has relevant certifications, such as ISO and CE, to ensure their products meet industry standards.

• Consider buying a used press brake buying guide to help you make the right choice.

Section 6: Case Study – Success with JSTMT Press Brakes

• Client: Automotive parts manufacturer

• Challenge: Inefficient bending process leading to high scrap rates and increased production costs.

• Solution: Custom hydraulic press brake with CNC controls and automatic tool changer.

• Result:

  • 25% increase in production speed

  • 15% reduction in scrap

  • Significant improvement in bend quality and consistency

 

Conclusion

Choosing the right press brake is a critical decision that can significantly impact your metal fabrication operations. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this guide and partnering with a reputable supplier like JSTMT, you can optimize your bending process, improve efficiency, and achieve consistently high-quality results. Contact JSTMT today for a free consultation to determine what size press brake do I need for my business!