Computer numerical control is a technological benefit that has changed the manufacturing industry dramatically since it was first introduced to shop floor professionals. Previously in our blog, we have talked about the difference between NC and CNC controllers, mostly when related to press brakes. Today, we are going to dive in deeper on CNC controllers, both in press brakes and metal folding machines.
We already know that CNC forming is becoming the norm in almost every plant worldwide. Its powerful new feature of reprogramming the controller according to your needs was a turning point for machines and productivity. With a CNC, you can work small and large batches, thin and thick materials, and achieve different shapes.
Let’s explain CNC controllers in metal folders and press brakes, starting with the principle of the CNC folding machine.
Compared with a press brake, a CNC metal folding machine has a completely different working principle. Based on the architecture of a metal folding machine, the upper ram goes in a downward motion to contact the workpiece and press. Then the folding beam turns up, (while the upper ram is pressing the material), performing the bend. This movement is exactly the one that gets previously programmed with the controller. Because of their working principles, the bending radius of a metal folding machine is bigger than a press brake.
CNC folding uses, as its name implies, computer-based programming to get the data of the material and the task at hand. After programming is complete, which the operators at your plant are going to learn to do after some training, all they have to do is circulate material until the end of the cycle. Even if you have to perform multiple folds or complex angles in one workpiece, all forming and bending can be done in one operation, at the highest accuracy.
Based on their build and design, CNC folders stand at a disadvantage because the workpiece is limited by the support platform, which restricts further processing and movement. This makes them not very flexible for certain operations. Also, a press brake has a higher tonnage compared to CNC metal folding machines. This is true, especially for hydraulic press brakes. But, on the other hand, these restricted movements are the ones that make folding machines perfect for sensitive and fragile workpieces, since they do not lead to scratches and other damage.
However, the real limitation operators can have is when they don’t know well the machine they are using. Understanding the characteristics of the machine is what makes it completely useful.
One of the main benefits of CNC programming is avoiding operators in tasks that can now be done automatically. Folding is way more fast, accurate, and productive than before. This saves a lot of time for the operators and the process overall. Before, operators had to not only do backbreaking work but also do logical work, trying to combine the tooling and the work methodology for a complex part, making them tired and inefficient.
PC-based programming also drastically reduces downtime. While the machine system is currently processing a workpiece, operators can insert the specifications for the upcoming cycle. Minimizing the manual work is a huge benefit, which is also helping to upskill workers, by putting them in a more managing and strategic state of mind, by letting the machine deal with mechanic duties.
When it comes to accuracy, there’s not much difference between them. According to their principle and design, they both have their hits and misses, but it all comes down to the work you are going to conduct in your plant. Many shop floors have these two machines side by side, and many experts highlight the fact that they are meant to complement each other in folding.
Before starting your purchasing journey, make sure to contact a well-experienced supplier that will guide you through the process. If you want some help, we at RS Machinery are here to give clear and beneficial advice, so you can head in the right direction.
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