The press brake is a vital piece of equipment in the metalworking industry, playing a crucial role in shaping metal sheets into desired forms. This article delves into the definition, uses, and operation of press brakes, with a detailed look at the WE67Y-63/2500 hydraulic press brake and practical tips for maintenance and optimal pressure settings.
What is a Press Brake?
A press brake is a machine used for bending sheet metal. It finds extensive application in various industries such as light industry, aviation, shipbuilding, metallurgy, electrical appliances, and construction. This machine is particularly favored for processing large sheets due to its ability to perform operations like bending, stretching, rounding, and punching by using different molds.
Types of Press Brakes
By Driving Method
- Mechanical Press Brakes: Utilize mechanical systems to drive the bending process.
- Hydraulic Press Brakes: Use hydraulic systems for smoother and more precise bending.
By Synchronization Method
- Mechanical Synchronization: Ensure synchronization through mechanical means.
- Torsion Bar Synchronization: Utilize a torsion bar for synchronized movement.
- Hybrid Synchronization: Combine mechanical and hydraulic systems.
- Electro-Hydraulic Synchronization: Use electronic control for hydraulic systems.
By Motion Method
- Upper-Moving Hydraulic Press Brakes: The upper part moves downwards to bend the metal.
- Lower-Moving Hydraulic Press Brakes: The lower part moves upwards for bending.
By Control Method
- Manual Control: Basic control systems operated manually.
- Economical CNC: Basic computer numerical control systems.
- Standard CNC: Advanced CNC systems for precision and automation.
Features of the WE67Y-63/2500 Hydraulic Press Brake
The WE67Y-63/2500 model is a hydraulic upper-moving, double-cylinder, torsion bar-synchronized, non-CNC press brake with several key features:
- All-Steel Welded Structure: Ensures strength and rigidity.
- C-Shaped Frame Design: Allows for parallel placement of two machines for large workpieces.
- Hydraulic Upper Movement: Provides smooth slider movement.
- Torsion Bar Synchronization: Ensures forced synchronization of the slider.
- Built-In Mechanical Stop Structure: Offers high repeat positioning accuracy.
- Rapid Adjustment Mechanisms: Allows quick motorized adjustment of slider stroke and back gauge distance, with manual fine-tuning and digital display.
- Enhanced Safety: Slider can stop at any position, improving safety.
- Quick Mold Change System: Reduces mold changeover time.
- Weak Anti-Eccentric Load Capability: Slightly weaker capacity for eccentric loads.
Operating Instructions and Safety Precautions
To ensure safe and efficient operation of a press brake, follow these steps and precautions:
1. Pre-Operation Checks:
- Adhere to machine safety operating procedures.
- Inspect motors, switches, wiring, and grounding.
- Verify the alignment and fastening of upper and lower molds.
2. Start-Up Procedure:
- Connect the power supply and activate the switch.
- Start the oil pump.
- Allow the machine to run idle for 5-10 minutes.
3. During Operation:
- One person should coordinate the operation to ensure safety.
- Support the sheet from behind while bending.
- Maintain a gap equivalent to one sheet thickness when the upper mold descends to the lowest point.
- Keep the area behind the machine clear during operation.
- Avoid bending sheets at one end only.
- Stop and correct any misalignment of workpieces or molds.
- Do not exceed the machine's bending capacity.
4. Post-Operation:
- Regularly check the alignment of upper and lower molds.
- Disconnect the power supply before adjusting the press brake.
- Ensure no material contacts the lower mold when changing the adjustable lower mold opening.
- Immediately stop the machine if any abnormalities occur and investigate the cause.
- Lower the upper slider onto a wooden block before shutting down.
Maintenance Tips for Press Brakes
Like other hydraulic machinery, press brakes require regular maintenance:
- Inspect hydraulic oil levels and replace as necessary.
- Regularly check and tighten bolts and screws.
- Clean and lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
- Ensure electrical connections are secure and in good condition.
- Periodically calibrate the machine to maintain accuracy.
Optimal Pressure for Press Brakes
When working with different materials, it is essential to adjust the pressure appropriately:
- For Q235 Steel Plates: Approximately 48 tons of pressure is required for free bending.
- For Stainless Steel: Due to its higher tensile strength, around 96 tons of pressure is needed. Thus, a 100-ton press brake with a width of 2500-3200 mm is ideal.
Choosing the Right Lower Die Slot
- For CNC Press Brakes: V = S x 6
- For Standard Press Brakes: V = S x 8
- For Stainless Steel Materials: \( P = 650 \times (\text{S} \times 1.5)^2 \times \text{L} / \text{V} \)
Using a Press Brake
To effectively use a press brake, follow these steps:
1. Connect the Power Supply: Ensure the machine is properly powered and the oil pump is running.
2. Adjust the Stroke: Set the desired stroke length according to the workpiece requirements.
3. Adjust the Back Gauge: Position the back gauge for precise bending.
4. Place the Workpiece: Securely position the metal sheet on the machine.
5. Press: Activate the machine to perform the bending operation.
6. Remove the Workpiece: Carefully take out the finished piece.
FAQs
What industries use press brakes?
Press brakes are widely used in industries like light manufacturing, aviation, shipbuilding, metallurgy, electronics, and construction for shaping metal sheets.
How does a press brake work?
A press brake works by clamping a metal sheet between a punch and a die, then bending it to the desired angle through controlled force.
What are the different types of press brakes?
Press brakes can be classified by driving method (mechanical or hydraulic), synchronization method (mechanical, torsion bar, hybrid, electro-hydraulic), motion method (upper-moving or lower-moving), and control method (manual, economical CNC, or standard CNC).
What are the key features of the WE67Y-63/2500 hydraulic press brake?
The WE67Y-63/2500 features a welded steel structure, C-shaped frame, hydraulic upper movement, torsion bar synchronization, built-in mechanical stop, rapid adjustment mechanisms, safety features, quick mold change system, and moderate anti-eccentric load capability.
What are the maintenance requirements for press brakes?
Maintenance involves regular inspection of hydraulic oil levels, tightening bolts, cleaning and lubricating moving parts, ensuring secure electrical connections, and periodic calibration.
How much pressure is needed for bending different materials?
For Q235 steel plates, around 48 tons of pressure is required, while stainless steel needs about 96 tons due to its higher tensile strength.
Conclusion
Understanding the operation, types, and maintenance of press brakes is crucial for efficient and safe metalworking. The WE67Y-63/2500 hydraulic press brake exemplifies the advanced features and capabilities that modern press brakes offer, making them indispensable in various industries.
What is a Press Brake?
A press brake is a machine used for bending sheet metal. It finds extensive application in various industries such as light industry, aviation, shipbuilding, metallurgy, electrical appliances, and construction. This machine is particularly favored for processing large sheets due to its ability to perform operations like bending, stretching, rounding, and punching by using different molds.
Types of Press Brakes
By Driving Method
- Mechanical Press Brakes: Utilize mechanical systems to drive the bending process.
- Hydraulic Press Brakes: Use hydraulic systems for smoother and more precise bending.
By Synchronization Method
- Mechanical Synchronization: Ensure synchronization through mechanical means.
- Torsion Bar Synchronization: Utilize a torsion bar for synchronized movement.
- Hybrid Synchronization: Combine mechanical and hydraulic systems.
- Electro-Hydraulic Synchronization: Use electronic control for hydraulic systems.
By Motion Method
- Upper-Moving Hydraulic Press Brakes: The upper part moves downwards to bend the metal.
- Lower-Moving Hydraulic Press Brakes: The lower part moves upwards for bending.
By Control Method
- Manual Control: Basic control systems operated manually.
- Economical CNC: Basic computer numerical control systems.
- Standard CNC: Advanced CNC systems for precision and automation.
Features of the WE67Y-63/2500 Hydraulic Press Brake
The WE67Y-63/2500 model is a hydraulic upper-moving, double-cylinder, torsion bar-synchronized, non-CNC press brake with several key features:
- All-Steel Welded Structure: Ensures strength and rigidity.
- C-Shaped Frame Design: Allows for parallel placement of two machines for large workpieces.
- Hydraulic Upper Movement: Provides smooth slider movement.
- Torsion Bar Synchronization: Ensures forced synchronization of the slider.
- Built-In Mechanical Stop Structure: Offers high repeat positioning accuracy.
- Rapid Adjustment Mechanisms: Allows quick motorized adjustment of slider stroke and back gauge distance, with manual fine-tuning and digital display.
- Enhanced Safety: Slider can stop at any position, improving safety.
- Quick Mold Change System: Reduces mold changeover time.
- Weak Anti-Eccentric Load Capability: Slightly weaker capacity for eccentric loads.
Operating Instructions and Safety Precautions
To ensure safe and efficient operation of a press brake, follow these steps and precautions:
1. Pre-Operation Checks:
- Adhere to machine safety operating procedures.
- Inspect motors, switches, wiring, and grounding.
- Verify the alignment and fastening of upper and lower molds.
2. Start-Up Procedure:
- Connect the power supply and activate the switch.
- Start the oil pump.
- Allow the machine to run idle for 5-10 minutes.
3. During Operation:
- One person should coordinate the operation to ensure safety.
- Support the sheet from behind while bending.
- Maintain a gap equivalent to one sheet thickness when the upper mold descends to the lowest point.
- Keep the area behind the machine clear during operation.
- Avoid bending sheets at one end only.
- Stop and correct any misalignment of workpieces or molds.
- Do not exceed the machine's bending capacity.
4. Post-Operation:
- Regularly check the alignment of upper and lower molds.
- Disconnect the power supply before adjusting the press brake.
- Ensure no material contacts the lower mold when changing the adjustable lower mold opening.
- Immediately stop the machine if any abnormalities occur and investigate the cause.
- Lower the upper slider onto a wooden block before shutting down.
Maintenance Tips for Press Brakes
Like other hydraulic machinery, press brakes require regular maintenance:
- Inspect hydraulic oil levels and replace as necessary.
- Regularly check and tighten bolts and screws.
- Clean and lubricate moving parts to prevent wear and tear.
- Ensure electrical connections are secure and in good condition.
- Periodically calibrate the machine to maintain accuracy.
Optimal Pressure for Press Brakes
When working with different materials, it is essential to adjust the pressure appropriately:
- For Q235 Steel Plates: Approximately 48 tons of pressure is required for free bending.
- For Stainless Steel: Due to its higher tensile strength, around 96 tons of pressure is needed. Thus, a 100-ton press brake with a width of 2500-3200 mm is ideal.
Choosing the Right Lower Die Slot
- For CNC Press Brakes: V = S x 6
- For Standard Press Brakes: V = S x 8
- For Stainless Steel Materials: \( P = 650 \times (\text{S} \times 1.5)^2 \times \text{L} / \text{V} \)
Using a Press Brake
To effectively use a press brake, follow these steps:
1. Connect the Power Supply: Ensure the machine is properly powered and the oil pump is running.
2. Adjust the Stroke: Set the desired stroke length according to the workpiece requirements.
3. Adjust the Back Gauge: Position the back gauge for precise bending.
4. Place the Workpiece: Securely position the metal sheet on the machine.
5. Press: Activate the machine to perform the bending operation.
6. Remove the Workpiece: Carefully take out the finished piece.
FAQs
What industries use press brakes?
Press brakes are widely used in industries like light manufacturing, aviation, shipbuilding, metallurgy, electronics, and construction for shaping metal sheets.
How does a press brake work?
A press brake works by clamping a metal sheet between a punch and a die, then bending it to the desired angle through controlled force.
What are the different types of press brakes?
Press brakes can be classified by driving method (mechanical or hydraulic), synchronization method (mechanical, torsion bar, hybrid, electro-hydraulic), motion method (upper-moving or lower-moving), and control method (manual, economical CNC, or standard CNC).
What are the key features of the WE67Y-63/2500 hydraulic press brake?
The WE67Y-63/2500 features a welded steel structure, C-shaped frame, hydraulic upper movement, torsion bar synchronization, built-in mechanical stop, rapid adjustment mechanisms, safety features, quick mold change system, and moderate anti-eccentric load capability.
What are the maintenance requirements for press brakes?
Maintenance involves regular inspection of hydraulic oil levels, tightening bolts, cleaning and lubricating moving parts, ensuring secure electrical connections, and periodic calibration.
How much pressure is needed for bending different materials?
For Q235 steel plates, around 48 tons of pressure is required, while stainless steel needs about 96 tons due to its higher tensile strength.
Conclusion
Understanding the operation, types, and maintenance of press brakes is crucial for efficient and safe metalworking. The WE67Y-63/2500 hydraulic press brake exemplifies the advanced features and capabilities that modern press brakes offer, making them indispensable in various industries.
