When you are choosing a press brake for a large project, the use of a very large press brake is not your only option to handle heavy-gauge materials. Using two or more press brakes in tandem has many benefits over using just one large press brake.
Before you make a choice about which press brake option is right for your facility, there are several factors you may want to consider.
- Accuracy. While there are many applications for which one large press brake would be ideal, using two smaller press brakes in tandem makes it easier to maintain control. Precision is easier to achieve by using two smaller press brakes in tandem, rather than trying to achieve the same accuracy with one very large press brake. Tandem press brakes maintain complete control and accuracy with the use of linear encoders on the side frames, servo hydraulic valves, and state-of-the-art CNC machine controls. With that in mind, the larger the stand-alone press brake, the harder it is to maintain control and accuracy.
- Installation. The installation cost of one large versus two smaller press brakes is another factor to take into consideration. The installation of one large press brake can result in serious alterations to the existing facility. Large press brakes require ample height allowance and floor space to support the structure of the brake. Preparation for installation of a large press brake may require modifications to the existing facility such as digging a pit, reinforcing the foundation or even constructing a new building in order to accommodate the size and weight of a large press brake. Most tandem press brake installations can be completely accommodated with no or minimal modifications to the existing facility.
- Continuous Production. An additional perk of using two press brakes in tandem versus employing the use of one large press brake is that in the event of a breakdown or even routine maintenance you can still utilize one of the press brakes. If you are using just one large press brake, any small complication can completely stop production. If one of your two press brakes being used in tandem is temporarily out of commission, you can still use the other one for your production needs on shorter projects.
- Future Production Needs. One last, but very important aspect of using two press brakes in tandem is that each of the smaller press brakes can be used separately in the fabrication of smaller projects. When your project requiring a very large press brake is complete, you may not have a significant use for the large press brake. On the other hand, with two smaller press brakes, you can use each of them individually for regular work now and in the future while still having the option of operating them in tandem for any large projects that may come your way down the road.
Regardless of the application for which you are considering the use of either a large press brake or a pair of tandem press brakes, it is important to work with a sales organization or consultant who fully understands your projects and can provide solutions that meet your needs. For additional information regarding tandem press brakes, or to discover which press brake option is right for your application, contact JMT today. One of our press brake experts will be happy to give you a personal consultation that can assist you be more efficient in your specific applications. Call 855-Press-Brake (855-773-7727) or email Info@JMTUSA.com.
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Other Blogs About Tandem Press Brakes:
- How Are Tandem Brakes Kept Synchronized?
- What Automation Can Be Used With Press Brakes in Tandem?
- Advantages of Tandem Press Brakes
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Additional Resources:
Metal Cutting Double Miter Band Saw
Press Brake Training Hosted at JMT
