Ultimate Guide to Press Brake Tools

1. Overview

The Ultimate Guide to Press Brake Tools is a comprehensive resource focused on press brake tools. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, this guide provides valuable information to help you better understand, select, use, and maintain press brake tools.

2. Types of Press Brake Tools

Dies

V-Dies: 

This is the most common type of die. It is shaped like the letter "V" and has different opening widths for different thicknesses of material. For example, a narrower V-Die opening is suitable for thinner metal sheets and can achieve more precise bends.

U-Dies: 

The lower die is "U" shaped and is usually used in situations where special shapes are required for bending or where higher support is required for the bottom of the material. For example, when bending wider plates, the U-Die can provide more uniform support.

Punches:

Acute-Angle Punches: 

A punch used to bend sharp corners. Its shape and angle are designed to form a bend less than 90 degrees on the material. This punch needs to be matched with a suitable lower die, and during operation, care must be taken to control the pressure on the material to avoid breaking the material.

Gooseneck Punches: 

The shape is similar to a gooseneck, and it is mainly used for bending in the presence of obstacles or special space restrictions. For example, when there are already some attached parts on the sheet that the conventional punch cannot operate, the gooseneck punch can bypass these parts for bending.

3. Tool Selection:

Material Thickness: 

Material thickness is a key factor when selecting tools. Generally speaking, the specifications of the tool should match the material thickness. For example, for a 3mm thick steel plate, you should choose a V-Die with an opening width suitable for 3mm thickness and a punch that matches it.

Bending Angle: 

If you want to fold a 90-degree angle, you need to choose a punch and die combination that can accurately achieve this angle. Different dies and punches have different angle compensation coefficients, and the operator needs to adjust them according to actual requirements and tool characteristics.

Material Type: 

The type of metal material will also affect tool selection. For example, aluminum and steel have different elastic moduli, so when bending aluminum, you may need to choose a more elastic tool to avoid cracks on the material surface.

4. Tool Setup and Installation:

Alignment: 

Correct alignment of the punch and die is critical. During installation, use professional measuring tools to ensure that the punch is perpendicular to the die. Excessive deviation will result in reduced bending quality and even damage to tools and materials.

Gap Adjustment: 

The gap between the upper and lower dies needs to be adjusted according to the material thickness. A gap that is too large will result in an inaccurate bending angle, while a gap that is too small may cause the material to be damaged by excessive pressure. There is usually a special gap adjustment mechanism to help the operator set the appropriate gap.

5. Tool Maintenance:

Cleaning: 

Clean the tools regularly to remove impurities such as metal chips and oil stains. These impurities may affect the accuracy and service life of the tools. Special cleaning agents and tools can be used for cleaning.

Inspection: 

Regularly check the wear of the tools, including the tip of the punch, the notch of the die, etc. Excessively worn tools need to be replaced or repaired in time to ensure the quality of the bending.

Lubrication: 

Proper lubrication can reduce friction between tools and extend the service life of tools. Choose the right lubricant and lubricate according to the prescribed cycle.