In This Guide
Bending: The Most Versatile Sheet Metal Operation
In any HVAC sheet metal shop, bending is the operation that turns flat sheet into three-dimensional duct components. From simple 90-degree bends to complex box and pan shapes, the right bending machine determines your shop's flexibility and throughput.
Preda offers three bending machine types, each designed for different bending applications.
Quick Answer
For general HVAC duct work, the CNC Press Brake is the most versatile — it handles 90-degree bends, flange bends, and complex shapes with programmable angle control. For box and pan duct (rectangular fittings), the Pan Brake (Finger Brake) is essential — its segmented fingers allow bending closed boxes. for curved duct and round fittings, the 3-Roller Bending Machine is needed.
Press Brake vs Pan Brake vs Roller Bender
| Feature | CNC Press Brake | Pan Brake 2500mm | 3-Roller Bender |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bend Type | Straight bends, flanges | Box/pan, closed shapes | Curves, cylinders, cones |
| Max Width | 2500mm | 2500mm | 2000mm |
| Max Thickness | 3.0mm | 1.5mm | 2.0mm |
| Automation | CNC programmable | Manual | Manual/semi-auto |
| Best For | General duct, flanges, high volume | Box/pan fittings, rectangular transitions | Round duct, curved fittings, cones |
CNC Press Brake: The Workhorse
The CNC Press Brake is the most versatile bending machine in any HVAC shop. With hydraulic power and CNC angle control, it delivers precise, repeatable bends — from simple 90-degree duct corners to complex flange profiles.
- Programmable angles: Store bend programs — recall any angle with one touch, no manual adjustment
- 3.0mm capacity: Handles thick material for heavy-duty duct and structural components
- 2500mm width: Accommodates full-size duct sheets
- Hydraulic power: Consistent bending force across the full width — no springback variation
- Fast setup: Quick-change tooling for different bend profiles
View CNC Press Brake details →
Pan Brake (Finger Brake): For Box and Pan Fittings
The Pan Brake 2500mm (also called finger brake or box and pan brake) uses segmented upper fingers that can be removed to allow bending closed boxes — something a press brake cannot do. Essential for rectangular duct fittings, transitions, and end caps.
- Segmented fingers: Remove fingers to bend around existing flanges — perfect for closed boxes
- 2500mm width: Handles full-size sheets
- 1.5mm capacity: Covers standard HVAC duct material
- American standard: Meets US market box and pan brake specifications
3-Roller Bending Machine: For Curves and Cylinders
The 3-Roller Bending Machine forms curved shapes — cylinders, cones, and curved duct sections — by passing sheet metal through three adjustable rollers. Essential for round duct fittings, curved transitions, and conical reducers.
How to Choose
- What are you bending? Straight bends/flanges → Press Brake. Closed boxes/pans → Pan Brake. Curves/cylinders → Roller Bender
- Do you need all three? Most medium-to-large HVAC shops need all three — they handle different aspects of duct fabrication
- Material thickness? Thick material (2–3mm) → Press Brake. Standard (0.5–1.5mm) → all work
- Production volume? High volume → CNC Press Brake saves significant labor vs manual bending
Preda Care: Bending Tools, Lifetime Support
All bending machines use hardened tooling for long life. Replacement tooling ships free. CNC press brakes include lifetime remote PLC support and program backup. On-site installation and training available for all models.
Building a Complete Bending Setup?
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