There are four elements that determine the capabilities of a brake press in Phoenix, AZ: the operator, brake, tooling and drawings. A brake press can be an expensive piece of machinery that either accomplishes tasks efficiently or merely causes a series of breakdowns and delays. Here are six capabilities of a brake press if these four elements come together well:
- Seamless operation: The functionality of the brake press starts with setup. Well-educated operators can do this quickly but accurately. If an operator does not treat this as a priority, manufacturing items becomes an ordeal. This delays project runs and can even compromise the integrity of the parts created during a run. For complex parts, operators spend more time on setup just so breakdowns do not compromise the run. This is often justified if the parts perform complex actions and must be done correctly.
- The wonder of computing: CNC revolutionized the metal fabrication industry. It shortens setup time for the brake press and results in greater accuracy. Whether tooling, stamping or cutting, operators are more likely to create uniformity in parts and it takes much less effort than when brake presses were only offered in mechanical and hydraulic versions. If you require precise work, a skilled operator with a CNC brake press will impress you with the results.
- Tonnage requirements: Each brake press has a load limit in the center of the brake. This has to be determined correctly or the operator risks ruining the ram and rendering the brake press inoperable—or at least in need of an expensive repair. Charts offer guidance, but many operators may determine this independently, especially if a project is particularly unique or uses heavy material. A brake press can punch or tool through some hard material, but only with an understanding of its load limits and capabilities.
- Easy maintenance: A brake press requires regular leveling, oil and filter changes (for hydraulic machines) and lubrication. This maintenance is essential, but it is not time consuming or involved. Operators will not perform these tasks—they need to be left up to a skilled technician. However, they are usually aware of the schedule and plan their projects around it.
- Tooling options: The three common tooling options for a brake press are air bending, bottom bending and coining. It is best at air bending, which is the preferred method of manipulating material. If that does not work, operators move on to bottom bending. Coining is metal punching for when a project requires a perfect hole or shape every time.
- Fewer mistakes: Every brake press project starts with a drawing, which an operator must interpret before using the machine. Drawings are often designed around the tolerance levels and capabilities of a brake press to support good planning. Once transferred into CNC, the operator faces a high likelihood of getting the project correct the first time. This results in less wasted material and improved productivity.
If you need a metal fabricator who can operate a brake press in Phoenix, AZ with skill and efficiency, call Metal Pro Inc. and let us help you with your ideas!