Hydraulic Brakes vs Mechanical Press Brakes
Hydraulic brakes and mechanical press brakes are two types of sheet metal bending brakes used in manufacturing and metal fabrication. While both types of metalworking equipment bend sheet metal, they differ in how they operate and the advantages they offer. Here is more information about the differences between hydraulic brakes and mechanical press brakes and their pros and cons:
What Are Mechanical Press Brakes?
Mechanical press brakes use a mechanical system of gears, pulleys, and a flywheel to apply force to the sheet metal. Energy generated by the system is transferred to a ram, which accomplishes the actual bending of the sheet metal. The angle and depth of the bend created depend on tools on the upper and lower parts of the brake. The upper tool is commonly called a punch, and the lower tool is referred to as a die. Using differently shaped tools, press brakes can produce a wide variety of shapes and angles in sheet metal.
What Are Hydraulic Brakes?
Hydraulic brakes function similarly but use powerful pumps instead of mechanical force to drive the brake punch into the metal. The main distinguishing components of a hydraulic brake include a hydraulic pump, cylinders, and control valves. The hydraulic cylinders are the components responsible for applying the force required to bend the sheet metal.
Hydraulic Brakes vs Mechanical Press Brakes: Pros and Cons
While hydraulic brakes and mechanical press brakes are both effective pieces of metalworking equipment, their distinct features give them different strengths and weaknesses. Here are some pros and cons of each type of press brake:
Pros of Hydraulic Brakes
The biggest advantage of hydraulic brakes is that the down force of the ram can be reversed at any time in the stroke of the ram. Another advantage of hydraulic brakes is their ability to provide consistent force throughout the bending process. This is due to the hydraulic system’s ability to control the force applied to the sheet metal precisely. The hydraulic power of these press brakes can overcome the resistance of the metal without overcompensating. This strength also means that hydraulic press brakes have a higher bending capacity than mechanical press brakes, making them ideal for heavier projects.
Because the hydraulic pumps of this type of brake don’t depend on sustained mechanical force, they pair well with the precision of computerized controls. This allows hydraulic press brakes to execute more complex bending operations. Hydraulic brakes are generally easier to set up and require less overall maintenance than mechanical press brakes. The selection of hydraulic brake presses from Vander Ziel Machinery Sales include these and other advantages, like easy-to-use foot switches.
Cons of Hydraulic Brakes
Compared to mechanical brakes, hydraulic press brakes have a higher cost of entry. The price point can make them less accessible for smaller metalworking operations. The more complex systems behind hydraulic brake presses also makes maintenance more challenging. Repairing or replacing components can be more costly due to their sophisticated design. Conducting maintenance also demands more specialized knowledge of the machine’s function.
Pros of Mechanical Press Brakes
A major benefit of mechanical press brakes is that these more straightforward machines are less expensive than hydraulic brakes. Initial savings may make them a more cost-effective option for smaller shops. The relative simplicity of mechanical press brakes also makes maintaining them easier and more affordable than hydraulic press brakes. Another advantage of mechanical press brakes is their speed during repetitive tasks. Mechanical brakes can quickly execute the same type of bend in succession, allowing high-volume production of given bends.
Cons of Mechanical Press Brakes
The limitations of mechanical press brakes include lower pressure capacities and fewer bending options. Mechanical brakes cannot effectively air bend and their strength in repetition is offset by the simplicity of the available bend types. Due to the age of the mechanical brake design, modern safety measures are also less compatible with them and may further restrict operation. Mechanical press brakes can also incur wear and tear more quickly than hydraulic presses, demanding more frequent maintenance.
Which Type Of Press Brake Should You Choose?
Choosing between hydraulic brakes and mechanical press brakes ultimately depends on your specific needs and requirements. If you need high bending capacity for heavy projects and require a more controlled force throughout the bending process, hydraulic brakes may be the better option. If you need a faster operating speed to produce large amounts of relatively simple bends, mechanical press brakes may be a better fit.
Metalworking Equipment For Every Situation
Both hydraulic brakes and mechanical press brakes are valuable tools for sheet metal bending, depending on the project’s requirements. Understanding the machinery’s strengths and weaknesses can help you choose the best metalworking equipment for your business. The Vander Ziel Machinery sales team can provide a press brake for whichever metal production needs your company has. Contact us or browse our online selection of used and new press brakes today to find an option suited to your needs and budget.