CNC Bending Machine Features, Components & Types - 3 Axis vs 5 Axis Bending Machine

Bending is one of the most common fabrication methods used in sheet metal forming, which can be used to produce various parts with bends. What is a CNC bending machine? Let’s get into everything you should know.

What is CNC Bending Machine?

A CNC bending machine is a type of computer-controlled machine used to bend and shape metal sheets and tubes into various shapes and forms. It is an advanced form of a press brake machine that uses CNC technology to accurately control the bending process and get more consistent and precise bends. The CNC bending machine can be programmed with precise instructions for the desired angle, bend radius, and length of each bend, allowing for consistent results in large production runs. CNC bending machines are used in a wide range of industries, including sheet metal fabrication, automotive manufacturing, construction, and aerospace engineering. They offer many advantages, including faster production times, high accuracy and repeatability, versatile capabilities, and greater control over the bend parameters.

Features and advantages of CNC bending machine

CNC bending machines are highly advanced industrial machines used in metalworking to bend, shape, and manipulate metal materials efficiently and accurately. Some common features and functions of CNC bending machines include:

1. Computer numerical control (CNC): CNC bending machines use computerized controls to accurately control the bending process and ensure precise results.

2. Programmability: CNC bending machines are fully programmable, enabling operators to input specific instructions for the desired bend angle, radius, and length.

3. Versatility: CNC bending machines are capable of bending and shaping a wide range of metal materials, including steel, aluminum, copper, and others.

4. Automatic tool changers: Some CNC bending machines feature automatic tool changers, allowing for quick and efficient changeovers between different tooling setups.

5. High-speed operation: CNC bending machines can perform quick and efficient bending operations, making them ideal for high-volume production runs.

6. Precision control: CNC bending machines offer precision control over the bending process, resulting in consistent, high-quality bends.

7. Safety features: Modern CNC bending machines feature advanced safety features such as safety light curtains, interlocks, and emergency stop buttons to ensure safe operation.

8. Touchscreen interface: Many CNC bending machines feature a user-friendly touchscreen interface that simplifies programming and setup.

Components of Bending Machine

1. Bending beam: The bending beam is the main component of a bending machine and is responsible for bending the metal material to the desired angle.

2. Clamping and holding system: The clamping and holding system holds the metal material in place during the bending process and ensures it does not move or shift.

3. Back gauge: The back gauge is an adjustable stop that controls the position of the metal material and ensures each bend is consistent in length.

4. Hydraulic system: The hydraulic system powers the bending beam and applies the necessary force to bend the metal material.

5. Control system: The control system includes the user interface, computer controls, and software that enable the operator to program and control the bending process.

6. Tooling: The tooling includes the various dies and punches that are used to shape and form the metal material into the desired shape.

7. Foot pedal: The foot pedal is used to activate the hydraulic system and control the speed and force of the bending beam.

8. Safety features: Bending machines typically feature various safety features, such as light curtains, interlocks, and emergency stop buttons, to ensure safe operation.

Types of Tube Bending Machine

1. Manual tube bender: A manual tube bender is a simple machine that relies on the operator to manually adjust the tube and apply pressure to achieve the desired bend.

2. Rotary draw bender: A rotary draw bender is a more advanced machine that uses a hydraulically driven bending arm to bend the tube around a stationary die. This type of machine is ideal for producing complex and precise bends.

3. Roll bender: A roll bender, also known as a pyramid bender, uses three adjustable rollers to bend the tube around a central axis. This type of machine is ideal for producing large-radius bends.

4. Mandrel bender: A mandrel bender uses a mandrel, or a solid rod, to support and shape the tube during the bending process. This type of machine is ideal for producing tight-radius bends with minimal distortion or flattening.

5. CNC tube bender: A CNC tube bender uses computer numerical control (CNC) technology to precisely control the bending process. This type of machine is ideal for high-volume production runs and complex bending processes.

Differences Between a 3-axis and 5-axis CNC Bending Machine

1. Number of axes: A 3-axis CNC bending machine has three primary axes of motion (X, Y, and Z), while a 5-axis CNC bending machine has five or more axes, including rotational and tilting axes.

2. Bending capabilities: A 3-axis CNC bending machine is well-suited for basic bends with fixed angles, while a 5-axis CNC bending machine is capable of more complex bending operations, including multi-plane bends, compound bends, and helical bends.

3. Production efficiency: A 5-axis CNC bending machine is typically faster and more efficient than a 3-axis machine, as it can perform multiple bending operations in a single setup without the need for repositioning.

4. Equipment cost: A 5-axis CNC bending machine is generally more expensive than a 3-axis machine due to its additional axes and capabilities.

5. Programming complexity: A 5-axis CNC bending machine can be more challenging to program and set up than a 3-axis machine, as it requires more advanced CAD/CAM software and a higher level of expertise.

CNC Bending Machine Features, Components & Types – 3 Axis vs 5 Axis Bending Machine

What is CNC Bending Machine?

Components of Bending Machine

Types of Tube Bending Machine

Differences Between a 3-axis and 5-axis CNC Bending Machine

Related Articles：