The latest range of low cost, four-axis CNC hydraulic press brakes will be shown for the first time at EMO 2001 in Hannover, featuring the rigidity and accuracy of the existing LVD PPEB machine range but with a totally new control allowing simple on machine program input to cover most general bending operations. The LVD PPEB-4C, now available from LVD (UK) of Marlow, reflects a cost advantage of some 20 per cent against the normal higher specification control PPEB press brake series. The range covers 800kN with 1500mm working bed length to 2200kN and 4000mm bed length.

Strokes are 200mm and 250mm on the largest machine in the range.

All machines have a 400mm gap, accept Euro-style tooling and are fitted with LVD's recently introduced Lazer Safe integrated guarding system as standard which can reduce operational times by up to 25 per cent.

The new press brake range accommodates users not requiring the sophistication of the full CADMAN CNC control fitted to LVD machines which includes high level bending software.

However, the same precise servo control, using bed referenced Heidenhain encoders to prevent any deformation influencing the positional accuracy of the upper beam is included.

Indeed, such is the build philosophy of LVD that the 4C will provide the same level of bending capability with a significant price advantage.

The PPEB-4C has a standard two-axis (X and R) backgauge for depth and height with three gauge positions to accommodate flange sizes up to 1000 mm using the material support function.

Lateral adjustment of the fingers is manual from the front of the machine.

The control fitted to the new machine is very easy for operators to program using two methods where the control calculates the developed length or the operator inputs the angle of bends and other parameters.

A clear backlit display and large keys make the task easier and the control can carry up to + 300 sequences, data for 20 punch and dies and 100 machine parameters.

Most important for service support is the single card which carries all the electronic components.