FOCUS ON FOLDERS 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. More complex automated folding machines come with an automatic tool changer.
Benefits of folding
Sheet metal folders excel in precise, complex bends with fewer set-up and tooling changes. They are particularly suitable for the manufacture of components such as roofs, pans, trays and lids. New models, with greater capabilities and features, are continuously being launched into the market.
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 material surfaces to a minimum or eliminates it on some machines. As there are only very slight relative movements between the tool and the material surface, the tooling shows no abrasion wear even after years of use.
On folding machines, a radius can be easily created of short bending segments. By using small steps, the outside of the radius will be smooth and individual steps will not be visible. Folding does not require special tools for hemming.
The folding process is suitable for flexible applications because the tooling is not specific to the material thickness or angle required.“ Universal” tool geometries allow for unlimited angle possibilities and are rated up to the maximum machine capacity and height.
There are several types of folding machines. On systems equipped with
The Biegemaster XBend automated double folder.
segmented clamping tools, a new part can be set up by rearranging the tool segments on the tool rail. Machines without automatic tool changers still simplify the set-up process by advising the operator where to put tool stations. Common tooling allows for rapid changeover between parts and makes it easy for a single employee to program, operate and set up the machine for any compatible part.
Variobend folding technology.
While not‘ a one-size-fits-all’ solution, folders offer strong flexibility for a wide variety of needs.
Another advantage is part handling. Larger parts can be manipulated on the gauging, eliminating the need for multiple operators and increasing part accuracy. Folding machines clamp and bend the part when it is laying flat on the gauging table and the
BMS Multi-Touch control on the BendTron folder. flange is being bent so that the operator does not need to‘ manage’ the part during the forming process. Larger parts that require two operators typically can be manipulated by one operator on a folder because the bulk of the part is resting on the table and the operator can rotate it by themselves.
Folders create a scratch-free outcome. A metal folder‘ air-bends’, meaning that the machine system doesn’ t bottom or coin the material. Because of this, there is little to no wear in tooling for most folding applications.
Folders and press brakes complement each other in sheet-metal bending operations; they each have individual advantages and benefits in the press shop.
Folding innovations
In this article, we highlight some of the latest innovations in global CNC folding and software innovations, technologies and software.
German folding specialist, Biegemaster develops long folding machines and double folders for a wide range of professional sheetmetal fabrication applications.
It designed the Biegemaster BendTron to be its first generation to be driven completely by electric motors( for quietness, energyefficiency and precision). Unlike hydraulic systems, energy is only consumed when it is actually required.
The BendTron is designed to enable users to bend all common profiles with a bending length ranging from 4-12 metres with material thicknesses of up to 1.5mm( steel) and 2mm( aluminium). It is particularly suitable for demanding roof, wall and façade profiles. Precise positioning is possible with an electronic back gauge and flexible sheetmetal grilles. An optional cutting unit enables precise cutting of the sheet directly on the machine.
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