Should you invest in a custom press brake?

For a fabrication shop bending 8-foot sheets of 0.25-inch-thick A36 steel into channels or troughs, an 8- to 10-ft. press brake with typical punch and die combinations will get the job done. Some specialty applications, however, need a press brake custom-built to meet the forming challenges at hand.
What Defines a Custom Press Brake?

To answer this, we first need to define what a “standard” press brake really is. This isn’t as straightforward as it sounds, considering the range of press brakes and machine options available.

Standard machines are designed around an intended function. While manufacturers offer different throat depths and stroke lengths, the machinery is intended to complete the same basic function: straight-line metal bending.

Many standard press brakes are highly configurable. Back-gauges, safety systems, horns, and other options can be added. But “configurable” is not the same as “custom.” If you need a press brake configured for your application, you consider your application requirements, then choose a press brake and the options available. If you need a custom press brake, everything starts with the application, and the press brake is designed around it.

Should you invest in a custom press brake?

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