FOCUS ON PRESS BRAKES
SafanDarley Multi Cell.
Prima Power robotised bending.
Salvagnini bending operations.
Below and inset: LVD robotic bending operations.
Ultima press brake.
Latest technology innovations
Innovations in automation technologies for press brakes include robotic cells, cobots and automatic tool replacement solutions. Robotic bending cells can help companies to handle order surges and combat shortages of skilled labour.
Automatic tool-change functionality on press brakes facilitates small, variable batch sizes and complex tool layouts that require frequent resetting. Smart tooling warehouses and tool-storage systems offer large capacity for tooling( punches and dies) and save time for operators. The advent of smart / intelligent tooling solutions, with“ smart” tool data management and robot-based tool change, speeds up tool changeover, reduces downtime and relieves the load on the press brake operator.
Hybrid-drive bending solutions, automatic / mechanical crowning devices, enhanced HMIs( human-machine interfaces) and multitouchscreen solutions increase efficiency and productivity for press brake operations. The increasing use of electric and hybrid pressbrakes, and energy-efficient servo hydraulics, is a testament to the importance of sustainability in manufacturing.
Some manufacturers offer combined folding and press brake solutions in one machine. Combining the bending processes offers flexibility, as both processes have their geometric advantages. Software and digital advances include real-time automatic angle measurement, intelligent bending aids and correction systems incorporated into modern press brakes. Energy-saving devices, automatic start-stop functionality, advanced safety optics and user-friendly bending simulation software are also increasingly being seen in the market. Real-time bending sequence calculation and collision control during workpiece drawing are other software features. Online and offline programming of press brakes is possible.
The incorporation of press brakes with IoT and Industry-4.0 technologies presents significant opportunities for growth. Advanced software provides features for Industry 4.0 such as scheduled maintenance management, production management and easy integration with corporate ERPs. Artificial intelligence( AI) implementation in the bending process, with machine learning systems, has already been demonstrated to improve the ease of use, efficiency, precision and speed of press brakes.
New handling, loading and
The advent of smart / intelligent tooling solutions, with“ smart” tool data management and robot-based tool change, speeds up tool changeover, reduces downtime and relieves the load on the press brake operator unloading devices, to assist operators, on press brakes are also being seen in the market. These include sliding front support arms for easier material handling and modular systems for tool storage, loading and unloading as well as motorised sheet followers.
Dynamic and evolving market
Press brakes can accommodate a wide range of material thicknesses, making them versatile tools in the manufacturing sector. The outlook for the press brake market is promising, with industry experts anticipating substantial growth in the coming years.
“ The impact of bending force on material selection is a significant consideration, with optimising press brake tooling and reducing cycle-time strategies essential for cost savings and increased productivity. Compliance with press brake safety regulations is paramount, and automated system integration, die wear prevention techniques and servo-electric energy efficiency are key trends driving market growth,” commented analyst, Technavio, in its recent report on the press brake market.
Back gauge accuracy plays a pivotal role in bending process simulation and production throughput, while maintenance cost reduction and ergonomic improvements are ongoing priorities. The adoption of automated pressbrake systems has gained significant traction, added the analyst.
“ In conclusion, the market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, with a focus on optimising bending processes, enhancing safety and increasing efficiency. Market participants are continuously exploring innovative solutions to address the unique challenges of various industries, ensuring that the press brake remains an indispensable tool for manufacturing excellence,” concluded Technavio. n
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