Types

• The design of the part revolution press uses an air clutch and brake. When air is trapped in a chamber, the clutch engages, the brake disengages and the press makes a single stroke. Hydraulic presses have a lower operational speed, are generally slower than mechanical presses and are not fully automated. Hydra-mechanical presses combine hydraulic and mechanical operations into one setup. Mechanical friction clutch press brakes utilize a part-revolution mechanical friction clutch with foot-pedal operation.
  
  

Function

• Press brake operation requires maximum operator responsibility. The operator is responsible for choosing and installing the dies, placing and positioning the stock between the dies, activating the press cycle and removing the finished part.
  
  

Operation

• Operators activate press brakes with a safety-regulated foot control or palm buttons. Machines equipped with a foot control allow the operator to start manually the press cycle by pushing down on a foot switch. Required safeguarding devices must cover foot switches. Press brakes equipped with palm buttons require two separate, two-hand controls designed for two operators. Each operator must engage the controls simultaneously, with both hands, to complete a machine stroke.