FOCUS ON FOLDING
“ The folding process is suitable for flexible applications because the tooling is not specific to the material thickness or angle required . Larger parts can be manipulated on the gauging , eliminating the need for multiple operators .”
Variobend pneumatic clamping gripper for fully automatic bending .
ENTERING THE FOLD
We highlight a selection of the latest new global CNC folding technologies , software and innovations in the market for sheet metal users .
The precision , efficiency and versatility of sheet metal folders make them indispensable tools in the metalworking industry . They are designed to achieve precise and consistent folds , saving time and effort , and process a variety of sheet metal materials of varying thicknesses .
For those manufacturing items using thin materials that are long and wide with short flanges , folders are a good fit . This is because they allow the material to rest on the folder bed for easier handling . Folders are easily identified by their large support tables and swinging ‘ folding beam ’, which bends the flange while the workpiece remains flat on the support table . These machines are suitable for many scenarios , especially for large blanks that would otherwise be difficult to handle .
Folding machines can bend all angles with a single set of tools . The machine automatically adjusts to the material thickness . Higher automated folding machines come with an automatic tool-changer .
“ During the folding sequence , the blank rests on the sheet support table . A gauging system positions the part to the bend line . The upper and lower beam clamp the blank . During the bending cycle the folding beam moves up around a pivot point . On up-down acting machines , the folding beam moves upwards or downwards depending upon the bending direction . During the folding sequence , the folding beam tool contacts the outside of the material and moves exactly to the programmed angle ,” explained folding specialist , RAS , outlining the folding process .
Types and benefits
On a folding machine , the entire part is inside the machine . Only a short flange stands out of the upper and lower beam tool . Folding reduces the sliding area of tools on the
Sucorema folding technology .
60 | ismr . net | ISMR April 2024