Press Brakes / Metal Folding Services

Established in Huddersfield in 1968, we have been using state-of-the-art machinery and technology to deliver an exceptional customer experience; it’s no wonder our team have been the UK’s chosen choice for sheet metal fabrication solutions for over 50 years.

We offer an end-to-end manufacturing service across a wide range of sectors, from metal folding to laser cutting. We offer both full-service sheet metal fabrication and sub-contracting solutions. We complete all of our jobs to the highest possible standard, and at highly competitive prices you simply will not find elsewhere. 

Contact us today to find out more.

Our Amada Press Brake ensures that we’re constantly up to date with the latest hardware. This press brake allows high-level, cost-effective production whilst also being low maintenance and easy to use. The Amada press brake allows us maximum flexibility to ensure each job is completed to the best standard, without compromise.

Our Bystronic Press Brake allows laser cutting and processes sheet metal twice as quickly as our more conventional machinery, guaranteeing your project is completed within your specified timeframe. The intuitive software streamlines the process, and the press brake can cut a variety of aluminium, steels, and yellow metals. 

“This kind of automation not only optimises our material flow, it also improves our machine use, provides us with a greater level of reliability” – Managing Director,  Michael Haskell 

At Salamander, our press brakes are equipped with cutting-edge controls and automated systems, allowing us to achieve precise angles and bends every time. 

Whether we’re crafting intricate shapes or handling large production volumes, you can trust us to bring your vision to life at pace. 

Take a look at some of our most recent projects to discover more about what we do and how we can help your business.

We understand that you may have questions about sheet metal folding and its applications. Whether you’re new to press brakes or seeking specific information, we’re here to help.

For the larger picture, be sure to check out our Metal Manufacturing Processes Guide, which covers other fabrication techniques, such as, welding and metal cutting.

What Is a Press Brake?

A press brake is a machine that is used to bend sheet metal. It consists of a sturdy frame, complete with a hydraulic or mechanical ram and a die set.  

The sheet metal is placed between the ram and the die, and when pressure is applied, the metal is bent or formed to the desired shape.

Metal Folding vs Metal Bending: What’s the Difference?

Due to its machine-controlled folding angle, metal folding provides high precision and accuracy. It generally performs better with thicker materials than bending. Compared to bending, metal folding produces high-quality products that are free of surface scratches. 

What Materials Can Be Folded?

A wide range of materials are able to be folded (such as plastics, mesh, and wood), but here at Salamander, we specialise exclusively in folding metals. We do this by using a press brake machine, which exerts high tensile strengths and shear forces to bend sheet metal into the exact shape you require, as established by the project drawings at the initial 2D or 3D CAD design stage. 

What Is the Difference between a Press Brake and Folding Machine?

The key difference between a folding machine and a press brake is how they handle a workpiece. On a press brake, the flange is gauged and the rest of the part is rotated up. 

On a folding machine, it’s the opposite – the part is gauged and supported on the sheet support system and the flange is turned up. Typically, press brakes are able to work on thicker, heavier metal, whereas folding machines are more suited to more delicate work.

What Are the Different Folding Techniques Used in Sheet Metal Folding?

Metal folding techniques are varied, with the most common types being:

• Bottoming
• Air Bending
• Coining
• Wiping
• Folding
• Rolling
• Joggling
• Hydraulic CNC Press Brakes

Take a look at the techniques we use to discover more.

To learn more about the work we do or to get started with your next project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly sales team on 01484 843599 or at sales@salamanderfabs.com