PRESS BRAKE TONNAGE CALCULATOR 

Our online calculator is your ideal tool for accurately determining bend parameters for your sheet metal. In just a few simple steps, you'll get detailed information on:

• Tonnage: The force required to perform the bend.

• Inside radius: The inner curvature of the bend.

• Minimum flange length: The shortest possible length of the flange to prevent breakage.

Understanding Die Opening:

Die opening is a critical parameter that affects bend quality. Generally, a die opening proportional to the sheet thickness is recommended:

• Thickness < 6mm: die opening = thickness × 8

• Thickness > 6mm: die opening = thickness × 10

However, you can vary the die opening to achieve specific results in terms of inside radius and minimum flange length. Remember that a too-small die opening can increase bending force and damage the material.

Minimum Flange Length Explained:

The minimum flange length is the shortest length of the flange you can achieve without breaking the material during bending. This value depends on the die opening, material thickness, and bend angle. Our calculator will help you determine the ideal minimum flange length for your project.

Imagine folding a sheet of paper. If you fold it too sharply, it will tear. The same applies to sheet metal. The minimum bend length represents the point beyond which the material can no longer be bent without risk of breaking or excessive deformation. It's like a "strength threshold" that every material has..

Inside Radius: A Key Factor

The inside radius is the measure of the curvature inside a bend. The smaller the inside radius, the tighter the bend. This value is crucial in sheet metal working because it affects the strength of the bend, the aesthetic appearance of the finished part, and the choice of tools to use. A too-small inside radius can lead to cracks or unwanted deformations, while a too-large radius may not meet design specifications. The choice of inside radius depends on several factors, such as sheet thickness, material, bend type, and required dimensional tolerances.

How the VICLA calculator works:

1. Input data: Provide the characteristics of the material and the bend you want to create, such as sheet thickness, die opening, and bend angle.

2. Get results: The VICLA calculator will immediately provide you with the optimal values for the bending parameters, allowing you to configure your press brake with precision.