This equipment utilizes controlled force to bend flat metal stock into predetermined shapes. A simple example is the creation of a box from a flat sheet by bending it at right angles along designated lines. Various types exist, each designed for specific thicknesses, materials, and bend complexities, ranging from simple manual tools to sophisticated computer-controlled systems.
Automated and precise bending streamlines manufacturing processes, reducing material waste and labor costs. This technology has significantly impacted industries relying on formed metal components, from electronics enclosures to automotive parts and architectural elements. Its development has evolved alongside advancements in materials science and control systems, allowing for increasingly complex designs and greater production efficiency.