How to use Tandem press brake correctly?

A large press brake is not the only way to bend a large-sized part. Press brakes can be coupled to work in Tandem, which might increase productivity and throughput. The Tandem press brakes can be used to bend really long parts, as long as 60 feet in some instances, or they can be used independently to bend smaller parts. So, when might you need a Tandem press brake? How to use Tandem press brake correctly? The answers to the questions above can be found in this article.

The Content list:

1/ How to use Tandem press brake correctly?

2/ Applications for Tandem press brake

How to use Tandem press brake correctly?

Like most single brakes, Tandem brakes also are CNC. The machines can be controlled either from a single station to act as one long press brake, or they can be operated independently as two separate press brakes. Most CNCs even have an option that allows part programming to be shared across both machines.

When the brakes are operated as a Tandem set, it is critical that both machines are set up and calibrated properly. While important for single-machine setup, calibration is even more crucial for Tandem brakes. This starts with the mechanical features of the machines: the bed, ram, and tooling. If these items are not properly aligned, quality bends will not be achieved. Multiple methods are available to ensure precision alignment.

Once the mechanical features are in sync, it is imperative that both machines be functioning properly. Any problem during the machine experience will affect the operation of both. For instance, if a scale is misrepresenting the position of the Y1 cylinder on one side of the Tandem, the Tandem press brake will not be able to deliver consistency in the final bend angle across the length of the entire part.

Additionally, if auxiliary components, such as back gauges and crowning devices, are employed on both machines, these will have to be working in precise conjunction with one another to ensure proper part quality.

Most of the same rules of operating single machines should be applied to Tandem brakes. The first thing to keep in mind is the tonnage rating of the machine. A common misconception is that having two machines in Tandem doubles the tonnage regardless of where the bend takes place. Full, combined tonnage of the machines applies only to full-length parts. Attempting to apply full tonnage of both machines across parts that don’t run the length of the machines can create issues with premature wear of components.

Additionally, exceeding the tons-per-foot rating of the tooling either will cause wear or, more catastrophically, crash punches and dies. Off-center loading of these machines also can put additional stress on components such as gibbing and cylinder seals. Use common sense to avoid problems. If an operation would create problems for a single machine, it probably will for Tandems as well.

Applications for Tandem press brake

Tandem brakes are a great way to create a lot of bending length, often up to 60 feet, or more. For low-production, high-variable job shops to fabricators with a more dedicated process, Tandem brakes can be the ideal tool. However, with a Tandem brake set, each machine still has side housings though bending wide parts reduces the need to weld smaller parts together. Also, buying a Tandem set means purchasing two brakes. There are now twice as many parts that could potentially fail. Maintenance of Tandem sets is more critical, as noted previously.

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