Beginners metal brake

[Tuscani2718]

Hey everyone, I have a few projects that could benefit from some custom bent pieces of thin gauge steel. That being said, what better time to pic up a new tool and hopefully skill.. My question is I'm looking for a brake that is good for the hobbyist (and won't brake the bank) but not complete junk either. Also is it worth considering a pan and brake setup? Thanks for the input in advance.

 

[K13]

What are you planning to make? What length do you see yourself needing? What is your budget? Pan brakes are definitely more useful if you are doing that type of work if all you ever intend to do is put a single fold in something it may be an added expense that you will not use.

 

[Tuscani2718]

23"-36" would be the widest and longest for that matter. A lot of the work would be for small engine covers, accessory brackets and patch pieces. Honestly I haven't put much thought into a budget as I was waiting to see what was suggested before I set myself a price. I feel multiple bends and making pans would be far better that riveting lots of pieces together. Hope this clears things up a bit.

 

[usa#1]

Tuscan, I ask basically the same question in an earlier thread. I didn't get as much feedback as I was hoping for. What are your thoughts on the Dayton unit I posted about?

 

[Tuscani2718]

USA, glad you linked that one as I did not see it before in my searches. I think that one would do great for a DIY'r!

 

[89GLH]

I made one out of 2, 24" pieces of 2" angle that I chuck up in my vise. Welded a hinge and a handle on, it makes light bends no problem.

 

[MP&C]

I started out with some of Diacro's equipment, bench top box and pans, and shear. I got them from a local auction of school equipment, so I got quite a better price than what you see on eBay lately.

(eBay reference picture)


I will say when I did upgrade to a larger machine, in all cases any Diacro item that I had went for more than I paid; they are well built and hold their value. Their bench top B&P's are available up to 36" wide, but these are more rare than the 12 and 24 wide.

 

[bullfrog123]

As K13 said.. what are you trying to make. Length? Gauge? 90º or past?

There are too many choices out there until you figure in the above questions.

If you are doing simple small patch panels for vehicles I have had great luck with the Harbor Freight benchtop brake. http://www.harborfreight.com/30-inch-bending-brake-67240.html I have added some bracing and such to handle bit thicker material but serves well for small stuff.

If you need thicker capacity but in the same small category a Swag Offroad press brake is REALLY handy!!!!! http://www.swagoffroad.com/SWAG-Press-Brake-Kits_c_53.html

Beyond that you are looking at a considerable amount of $$ and loss of floor space.

 

[K13]

Price really dictates what you can get new and location dictates used. I know around here used is not going to happen so I would look at places like Northern Tool or Baileigh Industrial if you want something a bit better than the cheapo Harbour Freight unit but then you are jumping up to about the $800-900 mark for a Box and Pan unit that is over 24" long.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200423976_200423976

http://metal.baileighindustrial.com/finger-brake-bb-3616e

 

[Tuscani2718]

I would not need past 90° I don't believe. As for the total length I would say 24" has anyone used or have opinions on this model?

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200418477_200418477

Price really dictates what you can get new and location dictates used. I know around here used is not going to happen so I would look at places like Northern Tool or Baileigh Industrial if you want something a bit better than the cheapo Harbour Freight unit but then you are jumping up to about the $800-900 mark for a Box and Pan unit that is over 24" long.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200423976_200423976

http://metal.baileighindustrial.com/finger-brake-bb-3616e

 

[bullnerd]

Diacro 24" gets my vote. Search for a used one.

 

[dr_clyde]

Definitely look for a used diacro or tennsmith. I picked up a 48" tennsmith BP brake for 500 bucks with a stand off craigslist.

 

[Damon L.]

FWIW, Di-Acro is still making the 24 and 36" brakes. In America no less. (Far beyond the budget of most hobbyists, though.)

What it does mean for the hobbyist is that parts are still available as well as support if you get a gently used one.

 

[Tuscani2718]

Thanks for all the great input guys!

 

[gtermini]

Diacro 24" gets my vote. Search for a used one.

These are a great tool. I have a PEXTO 24", which is almost identical. They aren't cheap though. I paid $600 for my brake in good shape with a full set of fingers that weren't trashed on the tips.

Greyson