Classification of Metal Bending Machines, Specifications of Each Type

Metal bending is an important process in the manufacturing and construction industries. With continuous advancements in technology, metal bending machines are becoming increasingly diverse and sophisticated. Join RX Tradex as we explore popular types of metal bending machines and their technical specifications in the article below, classifying the most common metal bending machines available today.

1. Electric Tube and Pipe Bending Machine

The electric tube and pipe bending machine is one of the most modern and effective devices in the metal bending industry. This machine operates based on the principle of using an electric motor to control the movements of the device.

Operating Principle

The electric tube and pipe bending machine uses an electric motor to control the bending shafts and rollers. The electric motor provides power to these components, allowing the bending process to be performed accurately and steadily. The machine is usually controlled by a numerical control (NC) panel, enabling users to easily set bending parameters as required. The operation principle of each component is as follows:

• Electric Motor: The electric motor is the main power source, supplying the necessary force to operate the machine components. It allows adjustment of speed and bending force, enabling the machine to operate with high precision.
• Bending Shafts and Rollers: The machine’s bending shafts and rollers are controlled by the electric motor to perform the bending operations. This combination ensures that the metal is bent into the desired shape and size.
• Numerical Control (NC) Panel: The electric tube and pipe bending machine is often equipped with a numerical control (NC) panel, allowing users to easily set and adjust bending parameters. This panel provides a user-friendly interface, enabling precise input and setup of bending programs.

Technical Specifications:

• Motor Power: Typically ranges from 5 kW to 20 kW depending on the size and requirements of the machine.
• Maximum Material Size: Can bend pipes and boxes with a diameter up to 200 mm and thickness from 2 mm to 10 mm.
• Bending Speed: Adjustable from 0 to 10 m/min, depending on material type and product requirements.
• Precision: ±0.1 mm, allowing for accurate and consistent results.

Advantages:

• High Precision: Allows for precise and repeatable parameter settings, ensuring consistent product quality.
• High Performance: Capable of continuous operation at high speeds, reducing production time.
• Energy Efficiency: Uses an electric motor, which is more energy-efficient compared to other methods.

Applications:

The electric tube and pipe bending machine is commonly used in the automotive, construction, and industrial equipment manufacturing industries. It is suitable for bending various sizes and thicknesses of metal pipes and boxes.

2. Hydraulic Bending Machine

The hydraulic bending machine is another popular device in the metal bending industry. This machine operates based on the principle of using hydraulic pressure to perform the bending process.

Operating Principle

The hydraulic bending machine uses a hydraulic pump to generate high pressure, which is then transmitted through cylinders to perform the bending. These hydraulic components are capable of generating powerful bending forces, making it easy and efficient to bend metal materials. The operating principle of each component is as follows:

• Hydraulic Pump: The hydraulic pump serves as the source of pressure for the system. When the pump operates, it compresses hydraulic oil and generates high pressure, transmitting this force to the cylinders.
• Hydraulic Cylinders: The hydraulic pressure from the pump is transmitted through hydraulic cylinders, where it is converted into mechanical force. The cylinders are capable of producing significant bending forces, allowing for accurate bending of metal materials.
• Piping System and Control Valves: The piping system and control valves ensure that hydraulic oil is accurately distributed to the cylinders. The valves also allow for pressure adjustment and control, ensuring a smooth and safe bending process.

Technical Specifications:

• Hydraulic Pressure: Ranges from 200 bar to 700 bar, depending on the size and strength of the machine.
• Maximum Material Size: Can bend materials with a width up to 300 mm and thickness from 5 mm to 20 mm.
• Maximum Bending Force: Can reach up to 1000 kN, suitable for bending thick and hard metal materials.
• Precision: ±0.5 mm, suitable for applications requiring high bending force and precision.

Advantages:

• Powerful Bending Force: Capable of generating large bending forces, suitable for thick and hard metal materials.
• High Durability: The machine is built robustly and can operate continuously for long periods without issues.
• Flexibility: Can bend various metal materials with different shapes and sizes.

Applications:

Hydraulic bending machines are commonly used in steel structure fabrication, household appliance manufacturing, and machinery production. They are particularly useful in applications requiring high bending force and precision.

3. Small Manual Bending Vise

The small manual bending vise is a basic yet highly useful tool in metal bending. This simple yet effective device is ideal for small-scale metal bending tasks in workshops or DIY projects.

Operating Principle

The manual bending vise operates based on a simple mechanical principle. Users apply bending force manually by twisting or pulling the vise components. Despite lacking motor or hydraulic support, the intelligently designed manual bending vise can perform metal bending tasks effectively. The manual bending vise typically includes a sturdy frame and adjustable bending components. Users perform bending by twisting or pulling parts of the vise to generate the required bending force. This mechanism allows direct and precise control of the bending force. Although it lacks automatic mechanisms like electric motors or hydraulic systems, the manual bending vise is designed to optimize work efficiency. Its parts are usually crafted with various bending angles, allowing for multiple bending types with a single device.

Technical Specifications:

• Size: Typically ranges from 200 mm to 500 mm in length, making it easy to move and use.
• Bending Capacity: Can bend small metal materials, with thickness from 1 mm to 5 mm.
• Maximum Bending Force: Generally ranges from 1 kN to 5 kN, suitable for simple bending tasks.
• Precision: ±1 mm, meeting the needs for less precise bending requirements.

Advantages:

• Low Cost: The manual bending vise is inexpensive, suitable for small workshops and individual users.
• Easy to Use: Simple to operate without the need for extensive training.
• Portability: Easily movable and usable in various locations.

Applications:

The small manual bending vise is often used for small and simple fabrication tasks, repairs, and DIY projects. It is suitable for small metal materials requiring simple bending.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of metal bending machine depends on the usage needs and financial capabilities of the business. The electric tube and pipe bending machine offers high precision and performance, the hydraulic bending machine is powerful and durable, while the small manual bending vise is simple and cost-effective. Understanding the types of metal bending machines will help businesses make informed decisions and optimize their production processes.

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