Rapid programming on a CNC press brake

Do you know how easy it is to program a modern CNC press brake? If you can use a smartphone you can use the latest generation CNC control and it's possible to move from a design on paper to a ready-to-run program in less than a minute! 

The latest controls feature large, easy to use touchscreens and offer intuitive programming, making light work of creating programs, even for more complex parts. 

How do you use a CNC press brake control?

Firstly select your material parameters i.e. thickness, width and material type, then select the top and bottom tools you want to use or continue with the current tools. Next, simply draw out the part by tapping on the screen, then editing the dimensions and angles as required. Now you are ready to create the program.

Calculate the program

The CNC will now calculate and optimise the program unless there are clashes in which case it will confirm that there is no solution. There is the option to override the control and manually sequence the part if, for instance, there is a clash that is acceptable; such as where material will flex sufficiently to overcome it.

Optimising bend sequence considers the best order for flips and rotations, and automatically programs the bend angles, back gauge position, retract function and return heights. The CNC also calculates the stretching of the material to obtain an accurate developed length. 

Run the program

A graphical display of the current program enables the operator to simply follow the on screen sequence and orientation of bends.

While the CNC calculates the Y1 and Y2 cylinder axis position to produce the degrees required in the program, it allows for springback in the material; if the springback is more or less than expected, a simple adjustment can be made. 

Advanced features

While these controls are very simple to use, they aren’t lacking in advanced features for users who demand more from the machine. Many adjustments can be made to bending programs including approach/return speed, mute point, pinch point and dwell time. To program specialist bending jobs such as coining or forming, Y-axis learning can be used to ‘teach’ the machine the required parameters.

Find out more

Here at Bison Machinery we are very happy to demonstrate the powerful ESA S 640 or ESA VIS-875W touch screen controls in our showroom in Stafford. Please get in touch to book a visit on 01785 336732, by email to sales@bisonmachinery.co.uk or via our contact form here.