Press brake tools, also known as press brake dies or tooling, are components used in press brake machines to shape and bend sheet metal or other materials into various forms. These tools consist of upper and lower dies that work together to form the desired bend or shape in the material. Here are the main types of press brake tools:
Punch of Press Brake Tools
The punch is the upper tool that applies force to the material, causing it to bend or shape. It typically has a profiled edge that matches the desired bend shape.
Die of Press Brake Tools
The die is the lower tool that supports the material during bending. It has a V-shaped groove or channel that determines the final bend angle and radius. Dies come in various widths and angles to accommodate different bending requirements.
V-Die
This is a type of die that has a V-shaped groove, usually with a standard angle of 90 degrees. V-dies are versatile and commonly used for bending straight flanges on sheet metal.
Gooseneck Punch
This type of punch has a curved or extended shape, allowing it to reach deep into the material for forming complex bends or shapes.
Bottom Die Holder
This component holds the lower die in place within the press brake machine. It ensures proper alignment and support during bending operations.
Hemming Tools
These tools are used for creating hemmed edges on sheet metal, which involves folding the material over itself to reinforce and smooth the edge.
Specialty Tools
Depending on the specific bending requirements, press brake tooling may include various specialty tools such as radius dies, offset dies, flanging dies, and custom profiles designed for specific applications.
Press brake tools are often made from hardened tool steel or carbide to withstand the high pressures and repetitive bending operations. The selection of the appropriate tooling depends on factors such as the material type, thickness, bend angle, bend radius, and desired finished shape. Proper tooling setup and alignment are crucial for achieving accurate and consistent bends in sheet metal fabrication.
