21/12/2021
Differences between profiling and press brake bending
Production of metal profiles: the differences between profiling and press brake bending
The bending process is a procedure for shaping and permanently deforming sheet metal, in order to obtain the desired shape. The metal bending process, following the shaping process, can be carried out through different procedures and with different types of machinery designed for specific formats. Depending on the intended use, and the type and the quantity of profiles desired, two different production processes can be used: profiling and press brake bending.
But how is this work performed? And what are the main differences between the two processes?
What is press brake bending?
Press brake bending is a process that uses special bending presses to bend sheet metal by means of a flexing movement that exerts force on certain points. This process makes it possible to obtain a permanent bend without the risk of damaging the metal. Semi-finished products from the press brake bending process can be used in many industrial sectors.
The profiles can have variable dimensions and be bent in different angles, according to the type and specific requirements of use. In order to obtain precise and high-quality results, the process must be carried out by expert operators: to best compensate for the springback of the material, the press must be operated in such a way as to exert the right degree of punch penetration.
Profiling: characteristics and advantages
Profiling, also known as forming or cold shaping, is a continuous running bending operation for sheet metal strips that uses special rollers. The procedure starts from a flat rolled metal strip which is inserted longitudinally into the equipment (known as a profiling machine) and then driven through motorized stations consisting of a series of forming rollers.
Depending on the number of stations and passes, the action of the rollers folds and shapes the strip in order to obtain more elaborate geometric shapes. With this method, it is possible to produce metallic profiles with complex shapes, made to measure according to the customer's specific requirements.
Profiling and press brake bending: the differences
Press brake bending is more suitable for producing limited quantities, works on the resistance and hardness of the metal and is an excellent solution for producing simple profiles in standard lengths. Profiling, on the other hand, is used to lengthen the material and is a process that ensures considerable advantages when producing large quantities of profiles.
For mass production, profiling considerably reduces costs and processing times, while also allowing greater possibilities for customization and no limits on the length of the profiles. In particular, by using the cold profiling process, Profilsystem can:
- produce profiles with complex shapes, made according to specific customer requirements;
- keep the mechanical characteristics of the profile unaltered;
- ensure high levels of precision for any type of profile;
- increase production speed and reduce costs.
For more information about the press brake bending and profiling processes, about custom metal profiles or about other services offered by Profilsystem, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our staff is always available to help and advise you in choosing the solutions that best suit your needs.