Metal Bending FAQs

In simplistic terms, press braking is a deformation process whereby a sheet of metal or plate is pressed or clamped between a punch and die set using a press brake machine to apply one or more bends in the workpiece. The angle of the bend is determined by the tools used and the pressure applied. A press brake machine can deliver a variety of precise metal bends with the right die design, such as a 90° rib form, V bottom or hat channel to name a few.

Although it looks and sounds simple, mastering press braking in sheet metal manufacturing is one of the most challenging tasks. Operators must account for numerous factors during the process, such as elongation, toolset selection, and tonnage. Producing consistent, high-quality work through press braking requires planning, knowledge, and experience.

Various types of press brake machines exist, including mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and servo-electric press brakes. At Unifabs we use Amada hydraulic press brakes for energy saving, high-speed, accurate and consistent results. We also use a servo-electric press brake, the Amada EG-4010, which is optimal for small complex parts and lower tonnage applications.

Where a traditional press brake uses a single tool from above to force the material into a lower ‘V’, creating the form, an automated panel bender can apply an up or downstroke depending on the direction of the bend required. It also manipulates the part into position rather than relying on an operator to move the sheet.

An automated panel bender is programmed offline. Based on this programming, it selects and loads the required tools, manipulates the material into position, and outputs the finished part.

Unlike traditional metal bending, this automated process eliminates the need to change tools to create a different form, and the requirement to flip the part to bend in a different orientation.

Unifabs use Salvagnini P2 panel bending machines. The Salvagnini enables us to perform fast, precise and repeatable bending, delivering quality finished products.

We can fold the following materials: Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, Pre-Galv, Zintec.

Unifabs can fold materials up to 4000 mm in length and hold an extensive range of tooling. If you have any questions regarding folding or other sheet metal manufacturing processes, please get in touch.