Press brakes are essential for precise bending operations in metalworking. This guide covers the step-by-step process for operating and adjusting a press brake, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Operation Steps
1. Start the Equipment
- Connect the Power Supply: Ensure the press brake is connected to a suitable power source.
- Turn on the Key Switch: Activate the key switch on the control panel.
- Start the Oil Pump: Press the oil pump start button and listen for the sound of the oil pump running.
2. Adjust the Stroke
- Trial Run: Before bending, perform a trial run to ensure proper functioning.
- Gap Adjustment: When the upper die descends to its lowest point, it must maintain a gap equal to the thickness of the sheet with the lower die. Failing to do so can damage the die and the machine.
- Adjustment Methods: Stroke adjustment can be done using either quick electric adjustment or fine manual tuning.
3. Select the Bending Slot
- Slot Width: Generally, choose a slot width that is eight times the thickness of the sheet. For example, for bending a 4mm sheet, select a 32mm slot.
4. Adjust the Back Gauge
- Adjustment Methods: The back gauge can be adjusted quickly using electric control or finely tuned manually, similar to a guillotine shear.
- Foot Pedal Operation: Press the foot pedal to start bending. Unlike a guillotine shear, you can release the foot pedal at any time to stop the bending process, and press it again to continue.
Upper and Lower Die Adjustment
Structure of the Dies
- Upper Die: Consists of a beam, a boss, and grooves.
- Lower Die: Typically V-shaped with a rotatable inner surface. The smaller the angle of the lower die, the larger the bending angle.
Adjustment Methods
Setting Boss Height
1. Position the Upper Die: Keep the upper die in any position.
2. Insert Spacer: Place a piece that raises the upper die by 10mm between the upper and lower dies, gradually reducing the gap.
3. Adjust Boss Height: Ensure the boss height allows clamping the piece without applying pressure. This method is suitable for thinner sheets.
Setting Lower Die Angle
1. Rotate Lower Die: Rotate the lower die to the desired angle, leaving a slight margin for accuracy.
2. Recalibrate Before Processing: Always recalibrate the lower die angle before starting the operation.
Setting Distance Between Dies
1. Adjust for Material Thickness: Set the distance between the upper and lower dies based on the thickness and strength of the material.
2. Distance Impact on Bending Angle: A larger distance results in a smaller bending angle.
3. Control Bending Depth: Use the depth of the lower die to control the bend's degree.
Adjusting the Bending Angle
1. Determine the Bending Angle
- Identify the required bending angle for the operation.
2. Adjust the Clamps
- Ensure that the clamps are correctly installed to securely hold the workpiece.
3. Adjust the Press Brake Angle
- Adjust Blade or Die Position: Change the position of the blade or die to achieve the desired angle.
- Rotation and Movement: The components can be rotated or moved to modify the bending angle.
Conclusion
Operating and adjusting a press brake involves understanding the detailed steps of starting the machine, adjusting the stroke and bending slots, setting the back gauge, and fine-tuning the upper and lower dies. By following these guidelines, you can ensure precise bending operations and maintain the longevity and safety of the press brake.
