A CNC press brake is a sheet metal forming machine that uses molds to bend cold metal sheets into various geometric cross-sectional shapes. It is widely used in industries such as automotive, aircraft manufacturing, light industry, shipbuilding, container production, elevators, and railway vehicles. This guide explains the operating methods, components, and related knowledge for both CNC press brakes and manual iron plate bending.
Operating Methods for a CNC Press Brake
1. Power On
- Connect the Power: Turn on the power switch on the control panel.
2. Start the Oil Pump
- Activate the Oil Pump: Start the oil pump. At this point, the machine will not perform any actions.
3. Stroke Adjustment
- Adjust the Stroke: Carefully adjust the stroke before bending. Ensure there is a gap equivalent to the sheet thickness when the upper die is at its lowest point to avoid damaging the mold or the machine. Use the electric quick adjustment for precise control.
4. Select the Bending Slot Width
- Choose the Right Slot Width: Generally, select a slot width that is eight times the thickness of the sheet metal.
- Example: For a 4mm thick sheet, choose a slot width of approximately 32mm.
5. Adjust the Back Gauge
- Back Gauge Adjustment: Use electric quick adjustments or manual fine-tuning, similar to the method used in a guillotine shear.
6. Begin Bending
- Foot Pedal Operation: Press the foot pedal to start the bending process. Unlike a guillotine shear, the CNC press brake allows you to release the foot pedal to stop the bending and press it again to continue.
Components of a CNC Press Brake
Understanding the main components of a CNC press brake is essential for effective operation and maintenance.
1. Slider Section
- Components: The slider section consists of the slider, cylinder, and mechanical stop fine-tuning structure.
2. Worktable Section
- Operation: The worktable is controlled by a button box that allows the motor to move the back gauge forward and backward.
3. Synchronization System
- Precision Control: Utilizes a servo valve and grating ruler in a hydraulic closed-loop system to precisely control various actions.
4. Back Gauge Mechanism
- Movement Control: Driven by a motor, the back gauge is synchronized by a chain and two lead screws.
Manual Iron Plate Bending
Manual bending of iron plates can be done using simple tools and techniques.
Steps for Manual Bending
1. Prepare Tools and Determine Bending Line
- Tools Needed: Iron plate, bending machine, hammer, pliers, measuring tape.
- Mark the Line: Use the measuring tape to mark the bending line on the iron plate.
2. Positioning and Bending Operation
- Adjust Position and Angle: Place the iron plate in the bending machine, adjust its position and angle, and apply moderate force to bend it.
3. Edge Treatment and Inspection
- Smooth the Edges: Use pliers and a hammer to smooth and adjust the edges.
- Check Dimensions: Ensure the dimensions and angles meet the required specifications.
Related Knowledge on Manual Iron Plate Bending
Composition and Properties
- Iron Composition: Manual iron plates are primarily composed of iron with a small amount of carbon, providing high strength and hardness.
Manufacturing Process
- Steps Involved: The process includes smelting, casting, cooling, rolling, and shearing, which ensures the quality and performance of the iron plates.
Applications
- Versatile Use: Manual iron plates are used in various fields, including construction, machinery, and transportation, due to their durability and strength.
Conclusion
Operating a CNC press brake effectively requires understanding its components, following precise operating methods, and knowing how to manually bend iron plates if needed. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this article, you can achieve optimal bending results and maintain the machine's performance. Regular maintenance and proper handling of the press brake will ensure its longevity and efficiency in metalworking operations.
