Glossary
Press Brake Bending
A metal forming process that uses a CNC press brake machine to bend sheet metal along a straight axis.
Definition
What is Press Brake Bending?
Press brake bending is the primary method for forming sheet metal into angles, channels, boxes, and complex profiles. A CNC press brake applies a controlled force through a punch into a V-die, bending the sheet metal along a precisely positioned line. Modern CNC press brakes use automatic back-gauging to control flange length and computerized crowning to maintain consistent bend angles across the full length of the part. ATS Metal Fabrication's press brake department handles light-gauge sheet through heavy structural plate, with an extensive tooling library for standard and complex cross-sections.
Types & Variants
- • Air bending (most common — versatile, punch doesn't contact die bottom)
- • Bottom bending / coining (high tonnage, very accurate angles)
- • Hemming (folding a flange flat against the panel)
Common Applications
- • Sheet metal enclosures and chassis
- • Structural angles, channels, and Z-sections
- • Brackets and mounting hardware
- • Machine guards and covers
- • Complex box sections and frame profiles
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inside bend radius in press brake bending?
In air bending, the inside bend radius is approximately 16% of the V-die opening. For example, a 16mm V-die produces roughly a 2.5mm inside radius. Tighter radii require bottom bending or coining, which demand higher tonnage. Material type, thickness, and grain direction all affect the achievable minimum bend radius.
What is spring-back in press brake bending?
Spring-back is the elastic recovery of the metal after bending — the material partially springs back toward its original angle when the press brake ram retracts. CNC press brakes compensate by overbending. The amount of spring-back varies by material grade, temper, and thickness and is accounted for in the CNC program.
What is the maximum sheet size you can bend?
Press brake capacity is defined by both bend length (the machine's ram length, typically 2–4m) and tonnage (force capacity). Contact ATS Metal Fabrication with your part dimensions, material, and thickness for a specific capacity confirmation.
Related Terms