Hydraulic press brakes began replacing mechanical ones in the '70s due
to costs and safety issues. Mechanical components were replaced with a
hydraulic system which eliminated these costly machined parts. Of course,
incorporating a superior hydraulic system with quality components is
paramount to supplying reliable and accurate equipment for the end user. The
buyer should also ask if valves, rings, seals and other key hydraulic
components are readily available and if the company they are buying from has
a good after sales service staff. Proprietary parts are often difficult to
find or can take a while to obtain.
Press brakes, like all machines, have features that differ across the
various manufacturers. The back gauge is a feature that is generally not
included with this machine as standard equipment even though it is extremely
useful. This gauge is typically sold as an option. This is true also for
tooling as well. There are specialty tooling companies that sell after
market press brake tooling for all types of press brake jobs. Yet, a savvy
buyer will be able to negotiate a front operated power back gauge and
tooling package to be included with their press brake purchase. If the
supplier is on the cutting edge he will have either American or European
style tooling to offer to the customer.
The buyer also needs to be certain that whichever press brake they
purchases that it is flush floor mounted. Many of the 150 and 176 ton
machines on the market require a slot in the floor to accommodate the apron
that hangs from the front end of the press brake. Sometimes the photo in a
catalogue does not pick up this issue. Ask your sales person so that you don't
become surprised and pay a lot more money for this type of foundation.
Author: Robert E. Heller
Source:
http://www.hellerson.com/article3-press-brakes.htm
