Description
Set up, program, and operate manual and CNC press brakes to bend, form, and straighten sheet and plate metal to specification.
- • Read blueprints, work orders, and schedules to determine materials, bend sequences, and tolerances.
- • Select, install, align, and secure punches and dies using gauges, shims, and hand tools.
- • Program or load CNC press brake jobs and edit offsets and parameters as needed.
- • Set backgauge positions, ram stroke, tonnage, speeds, and bend angles per specifications.
- • Perform test bends and adjust settings to achieve required angles and flange lengths.
- • Measure parts with calipers, micrometers, protractors, and gauges to verify conformance.
- • Inspect finished pieces for defects such as scratches, cracks, or incorrect angles and segregate rejects.
- • Position and align workpieces against backgauges, fingers, and stops to ensure accurate bends.
- • Place and support large sheets on the machine bed using hoists, cranes, or team lifts.
- • Start machines, monitor operations, and record production and quality data.
- • Plan bend sequences to minimize regrips, marking, and collisions, considering material properties and grain direction.
- • Set up crowning/deflection compensation and dwell to maintain angle consistency.
- • Adjust backgauge squareness, spacing, and finger locations for each setup.
- • Change tooling between jobs and verify die openings, radii, and clearances.
- • Mark identifying data, bend lines, and reference points on workpieces as required.
- • Deburr and break sharp edges using grinders, files, or abrasive tools.
- • Hand-form minor hems, flanges, or corrections when specified.
- • Apply protective films, pads, or urethane tooling to prevent surface marring.
- • Turn controls to set speeds, approach rates, and step sequences for complex bends.
- • Clean and lubricate machines; check oil levels and wipe guides per maintenance schedules.
- • Replace worn springs, wipers, or guards and report mechanical issues to maintenance.
- • Maintain tooling inventory; inspect punches and dies for wear and store properly.
- • Keep the work area clean and organized; handle scrap and remnants safely.
- • Follow safety procedures, including two-hand controls, guarding, LOTO, and PPE.
- • Operate forklifts or pallet jacks to move materials and finished parts.
- • Document setup sheets and update standard work in collaboration with engineering.
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Advanced Manufacturing
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
