⏭CNC Press Brake Machine Knowledge Sharing ⏮Down-Acting VS Up-Acting Press Brakes: Which is Better?

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. 

A Down-acting Press Brake refers to the motion of the upper Ram moving Downward to a fixed bed holding the bottom die set that the materials formed on. Typically driven by 2 or more hydraulic Cylinders and top mounted hydraulics a down acting machine is most popular and is the widest available press brake on the new and used market and one that most every fabricator is familiar with.

An Up-Acting machine has a lower beam or “Bed” that moves upward carrying the Die and Part towards the fixed Ram which holds the forming punch. This method of motion allows for hydraulics to be mounted low but requires a bit more finesses by the operator to hold thapart in position during the entire range of motion.  



*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

*Advantage Up Acting
Hydraulically driven from the center of ram reduces need for crowning devices
Hydraulics are located down low so maintenance is easier.
Machine height is typically shorter for low clearance needs.

*Disadvantage Up-Acting
Part moves during approach process requiring careful handling to keep on gauge points.
Bending Tonnage is limited (typically 35-150 Tons Max).
Machine is typically slower on approach speeds
Bending should be performed only in the middle of the ram
Less common design.