What is the difference between sheet metal bending and sheet metal folding?

Sheet metal bending and sheet metal folding are both methods of shaping sheet metal into various forms, but they differ in the way that the metal is manipulated.

Sheet Metal Bending: Sheet metal bending is a process of forming sheet metal into a desired shape by bending the metal around a straight axis, using a press brake machine. A press brake is a machine that consists of upper and lower dies, which clamp the sheet metal securely and apply pressure to bend the material to the desired angle.

The bending process generally produces a V-shape, U-shape, or channel-shape in the sheet metal. The bend radius and angle can be controlled precisely using specialized tooling and bending dies.

Sheet Metal Folding: Sheet metal folding, also known as edge bending, is a process of forming sheet metal using a folding machine. The folding machine bends the metal along a straight axis or a curved line, producing a crisp and clean fold. The fold is typically created using a punch and a die, which grip and bend the metal along a straight or curved line, creating a fold range that can be limited to 180°.

Sheet metal folding is ideal for producing shapes with folded edges such as panels with flanges or boxes.

The choice between sheet metal bending and sheet metal folding will depend on the specific requirements of the part, including the desired shape, bend angle, and production volume. For larger volumes or parts requiring more precise and complex bends, sheet metal bending is often the preferred choice, while sheet metal folding is ideal for parts with straight edges and simple bends.