What Are the Differences Between a Press Brake and ...

What Are the Differences Between a Press Brake and a Panel Bender?

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Press Brake vs. Panel Bender: A Comprehensive Guide

In the sheet metal bending industry, while most people might be familiar with press brakes, panel benders are also a viable option for forming workpieces. There are several other types of presses available, such as stamping machines, folding machines, and punching machines. Incorporating a panel bender into the production line can streamline operations, enhancing bending efficiency and accuracy.

Understanding the Press Brake

A press brake is a machine used in metal fabrication for bending. It consists of a ram and a workbench, with punches on the ram and corresponding V-shaped dies on the workbench. The ram, powered by a pressure system, drives the punch down onto the workpiece into the die. Although press brakes are generally less expensive than panel benders, their costs vary based on tonnage, ranging from 40 tons to over 1000 tons. During operation, operators may need to adjust the plate after each bending cycle. Automation is possible with the addition of a manipulator, though this increases the overall machine cost.

What Is a Panel Bender?

Invented by Mr. Guido Salvagnini, the panel bender has over 100 years of history. It shares a similar appearance and function with the press brake but is better suited for producing complex workpieces. With its ability to bend upwards, downwards, and horizontally, the panel bender can bend all sides of a plate. Key components include the upper and lower blades, counter blades, and an automatic manipulator, which can adjust to changes in the plate without additional setup time. The blank holder can accurately, quickly, and automatically clamp and rotate the plate, resulting in improved accuracy and quality.

Efficiency

Panel benders excel in efficiency, producing more workpieces per hour and achieving precise bends quickly. While a press brake requires at least one or two operators, a panel bender requires fewer personnel. A semi-automatic panel bender needs only one operator, and a fully automatic one requires none. Unlike press brakes, which need adjusting after each cycle, panel benders operate with higher levels of automation, making them more suitable for complete production lines.

Functionality

Press brakes, with a pressure range from 40 tons to thousands, offer functionalities like angle correction, automatic tool change, and deflection compensation. The accuracy depends on back gauge, angle adjustment, and blank. Conversely, panel benders focus on sheet metal thickness, with minimal setting time. They automatically adapt to the shape of the sheet metal, offering a bending tolerance of 0.008 inches for more precise workpieces.

Working Principle

Press brakes use an upper die set and a V-shaped lower die to press the metal plate, with tooling that wears over time. In contrast, panel benders utilize upper and lower blades, a counter blade, and a blank holder. The automatic control of these components ensures precise and flexible bending.

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Bending Quality

Bending with a press brake can cause wrinkles, kinks, and scratches, especially on coated plates. The molds wear over time, requiring regular replacements. For large plates, operators may struggle to keep up with bending speeds, leading to wasted material. Panel benders, with higher automation and accuracy, adjust bending force and angle based on temperature and material thickness, ensuring greater repeatability.

Conclusion

Both the panel bender and press brake have unique advantages. The press brake is cost-effective but the panel bender enhances production efficiency. Your specific production needs will determine the best choice. Our service personnel can help you choose the right machine.

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