New To The Steel Industry? What To Know About Press Brakes

If you are new to the steel industry then you may not know the first thing about steel in general and the equipment you are working with, which can make your new job feel a lot more daunting. Although you will get the proper training and knowledge you need during the first week or so of your job, it doesn't hurt to have a little more knowledge at your disposal. This article will discuss a few basics about press brakes to help you feel more informed. 

What Are Press Brakes?

The first thing to know about press brakes is what they actually are. If you are thinking that press brakes are similar to the brakes on your car because all you have to do is press down on them, then your first day of work may be more of a shock to you than you thought. A press brake is actually a machine that is used to press sheets of metal to flatten them and create preformed bends before they go through a matching and die machine. In other words, a press brake is the first step in the sheet metal forming and production process. 

What Is the History of the Press Brake?

Yes, it's true that before the industrial revolution, most things had to be done by hand. Can you imagine having to flatten and form sheets of metal on your own without the help of a machine? Luckily, you don't ever have to worry about that nightmare becoming your reality. The development of press brakes really didn't start to form until the 1950's when hydraulic machines started to gain more popularity, which helped to drastically shape and mold the steel industry in ways that were never imagined possible. 

Why Are Press Brakes So Important?

Not only are press brakes so important because they helped mold the steel industry, but they are also iportant because they are one of the preparatory steps needed in order to really mold steel to be used for a variety of different things like cars and buildings. 

Depending on the type of sheet metal you will be working with (aluminum, titanium, brass, or copper) your training on the press brake machine may very. For instance, some metals are softer than others, which requires less pressure and force when operating the machine. 

During your training as a press brake technician, you will get to know the ins and outs of press brakes, but a few extra tips never hurt. 

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