There are two main types of press brake designs available; Down-Acting and Up-Acting machines. Deciding on a design is usually mader based on your experience with one or the other previously. However there are some unique advantages and disadvantages of each design that should be taken into consideration when selecting a press brake.

Advantage Down Acting:
- Part stays fixed during approach process
- Most common Design
- Available in all tonnages
Disadvantage Down Acting
- Ram can Drop during a power outage and could create an unsafe environment.
- Ram must commonly “blocked” at night to take pressure off of the hydraulic system.
- Design Necessities need for “crowning” devices
HERE you can see a short video of a Down Acting Press Brake in action
Advantage Up Acting
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Hydraulically driven from the center of ram reduces need for crowning devices
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Hydraulics are located down low so maintenance is easier.
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Machine height is typically shorter for low clearance needs.
Disadvantage Up-Acting
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Part moves during approach process requiring careful handling to keep on gauge points.
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Bending Tonnage is limited (typically 35-150 Tons Max).
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Machine is typically slower on approach speeds
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Bending should be performed only in the middle of the ram
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Less common design.
HERE You can see a short video of an Up-Acting brake in Operation
Application:
Typically we see the Up-Acting machines employed to manufacture smaller components that can be rested in place by its own weight during the approach and bending process. However the motion of the Up-Acting brake does not limit its capabilities and many shops actually prefer its operation over that of the Down Acting type. Either of these designs can be equipped with Robotics or Automation for
Manufacturers of Down-Acting Brakes include: Accurpress, Amada, Bystronic, Cincinnati, Durma, Ermaksan, Hydrapower, Standard-Industrial, LVD, Pacific, Trumpf and others
Manufacturer’s of Up-Acting Brakes include: https://www.southernfabsales.com/machines/tag/press-brakehttps://www.southernfabsales.com/machines/tag/press-brake.
Whether you choose Down-Acting or Up-Acting for your metal fabricating and forming, Southern Fabricating Machinery Sales, Inc. can assist you in selecting the right press brake for your needs and budget. You may also want to check out our recent Blog article on Press Brake CROWNING.
Call us today at 813-444-4555 or visit us at www.southernfabsales.com for personal assistance with your used or new press brake needs.