www.OSHA.gov	A-Z Index: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Saws Presses Plastics Machinery        Powered Press Brakes Presses >> - Mechanical - Hydraulic - Pneumatic - Hydra-mechanical - Mechanical-Friction Clutch - Powered Press Brakes - Definitions There are four basic types of press brakes: Part Revolution Mechanical Press Hydraulic Press Hydra-mechanical Press Mechanical-friction Clutch These metalworking machines form parts through the use of dies attached to a plate type ram or slide and a plate-type bed. They are mechanically or hydraulically powered and are primarily used for bending and forming sheet metal. Metalworking occurs by placing stock on a bottom die and striking it with a top die attached to the movable ram. Powered press brake Operator Involvement The operator will select and install the dies, place and position the stock between the dies, activate the press cycle with palm buttons or a foot switch, and remove the completed part. These machines are normally used for prototype and semi-production processes where maximum operator involvement is required, creating many operational hazards. Point of Operation Additional Safety Measures   Point of Operation Potential Hazards: Although most press brake operations do not require the operators to place their hands or any part of their body into the point of operation, exposure to point of operation injuries still exists. Sometimes as the piecepart bends up, a hazard may be created between the part and the front face of the slide. Operating controls, especially foot pedals, introduce the possibility of accidental cycling. In forming large pieces, the operator must hold the stock and cycle the press with a foot pedal. As the work stroke begins, the stock will move up or down, creating a hazard. Press brake cycle View animation Solutions: Press brake safeguarding can be accomplished by using one of the following:   Presence Sensing Device Two-Hand Control Device Pullback Device Restraint Device   Additional Safety Measures Potential Hazards: Power transmission components should be totally enclosed. The work area should be neat with non-slip floor preparation.   Safeguarded press brake       Saws | Presses | Plastics Machinery eTool Home | Additional References | User Guide | Credits

Back to Top www.osha.gov		www.dol.gov
Contact Us | Freedom of Information Act | Customer Survey Privacy and Security Statement | Disclaimers
Occupational Safety & Health Administration 200 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20210