In response to ship, aircraft, automotive, and other industries, large metal parts have bending requirements, we need to use a large bending machine, but a large bending machine is not the only way to bend large parts, in addition to this, we can also use the tandem press brake, that is, two small bending machines synchronized processing of large-sized workpieces, this tandem press brake helps to improve productivity, but also provide processing operations Flexibility.
So when do you need a tandem press brake? Is a tandem press brake necessary? To address these questions, this article will look at how a tandem press brake works, the advantages, and the areas of application to help you determine if a tandem press brake is better than a large bending machine.
Tandem press brake principle of operation
Tandem press brakes are usually equipped with a numerical control system controlled by a workstation, which can operate independently as two separate bending machines, while at the same time, it can ensure the depth, accuracy, and repeatability of the ram by means of scales and linear encoders, by evaluating the position of the ram several times and feeding the information back to the numerical control system to control the hydraulic system’s output force. Unlike a stand-alone bending machine that reads the position of two scales, a tandem press brake reads the position of four scales for feedback and adjustment.
However, most of the rules used for single-press brakes also apply to tandem press brakes, e.g. keep in mind the limited tonnage of a single-press brake, because when two press brakes are connected in tandem, the tonnage of the two press brakes can be used only when they are used for full-length workpieces. If two machines are used for a workpiece that is less than the full length of the machine, this can cause wear and tear on the machine parts and, as a more serious consequence, damage to the punches and dies. Damage to the tandem pressure bending machine is also likely to result from operations that exceed the rules for the use of a single bending machine.
When the mechanical functions of the tandem press brake are synchronized, out it operates, the two machines must be set up and calibrated correctly, and the bed, ram, dies, and back gauge components must be precisely aligned and matched to ensure that high-quality bending and part quality is achieved. When the machines are in operation, both bending machines must be able to function properly at the same time. Problems with either machine during operation will affect the operation of the tandem press brake. For example, if the scale at one end misrepresents information, the tandem press brake will not be able to provide a consistent bending angle throughout the length of the part.
Advantages of tandem press brake
Flexibility: Tandem press brake are not best suited for all long workpiece bending, but when this type of forming activity accounts for 20% or more of the shop’s bending activity, purchasing a tandem press brake can be cost-effective. The two machines can be used independently for simultaneous production when long workpieces are not required to be processed and can be used in tandem when long workpieces are needed, providing flexibility for the press brake and keeping it open for future business expansion.
High productivity: the simultaneous collaboration of two or more press brake reduces the transfer time of sheets between different machines and increases productivity.
Space saving: Tandem bending machines typically take up less factory space than individual large bending machines, while providing similar production capacity.
Low machine costs smaller standard machines in tandem can sometimes be less costly than customizing a large bending machine when evaluating total costs
Disadvantages of tandem press brake
Maintenance requirements: Due to its structure of two press brakes in series, it requires more specialized maintenance and repairs, resulting in increased maintenance costs.
Technology update: With the rapid development of technology, the older models of tandem bending machines may soon become obsolete, and the need for continuous updating and upgrading of equipment
Weight and mobility: Due to the large size of the machines, moving and repositioning can be difficult and requires careful consideration of space planning and plant layout.
Areas of application for tandem press brake
Construction industry: Used in the manufacture of metal railings, staircases, door and window frames, and other architectural details, ensuring that metal parts are accurately shaped and installed quickly and efficiently.
Heavy construction: For bending and shaping metal beams and support structures in the construction of bridges and large industrial buildings
Aerospace: Used in the manufacture of aircraft wings, fuselages and other key components that require extreme precision and strength.
Power and electronics industry: for machining power pylons, electronic equipment housings, etc., which are often mass-produced and require a high degree of precision.
Final Note
Although tandem press brake consists of two similarly sized press brakes operating at the same time, the tonnage is not doubled, and even in a tandem setup, the press brakes will only deliver the tonnage they are designed to deliver, not more pressure.
Tandem press brakes are not commonly found in manufacturing plants, so before confirming your purchase, it is important to have a clear understanding of your plant’s current production activities, the true ratio required for a tandem bending machine, and the potential for future business with the introduction of a new machine, which will help you to ultimately make the decision to increase production and profitability.
If you need to know more about tandem press brake, you can contact us freely.
