How does a CNC press brake work?

Additionally, the CNC press brakes are equipped with an automatic feeding system that accurately controls the position of the workpiece through the movement of the ram and back gauge. Synchronous movement of the motor drive axes of the back gauge and the ball screws.

Basic Components

1. Ram (or Slide) – The moving upper beam that presses down.

2. Die and Punch – Tooling that shapes the metal:

   • Punch: Attached to the ram, pushes the metal.

   • Die: Fixed to the bed, receives the metal.

3. Back Gauge – A positioning system that sets where the metal is placed for accurate bending.

4. Hydraulic System – Powers the movement of the ram.

5. CNC Controller – The computer interface where the operator inputs bend angles, material specs, and tooling setups.

How It Works — Step-by-Step

1. Program Entry (CNC Programming)

   • The operator enters or loads a bending program into the CNC system.

   • This includes material type, thickness, bend angles, bend sequence, and back gauge positions.

2. Setup

   • The operator installs the correct punch and die for the job.

   • The metal sheet is positioned against the back gauge.

3. Bending Operation

   • The ram descends under hydraulic or electric power, pressing the punch into the metal and into the die.

   • The shape of the die and punch, plus the depth of the punch's stroke, determines the bend angle.

4. Precision Control

   • The CNC system controls the ram depth (for bend angle) and back gauge position (for bend location).

   • This ensures highly repeatable and accurate bends.

5. Multiple Bends

   • The sheet is repositioned, either manually or automatically, for additional bends.

   • The CNC controller guides the sequence to avoid collisions and ensure proper part geometry.

 Key Benefits of CNC Press Brakes

• Precision: Achieve consistent, accurate bends.

• Efficiency: Faster setup and reduced manual intervention.

• Complex Geometry: Easily handles multi-bend parts with automation.

• Repeatability: Perfect for high-volume or high-precision jobs.