Magnetic folding can replace mechanical methods

South African Electrabrake magnetic folding machines can replace conventional clamping methods in the production of box-type sheet metal components. The design is open-ended with unlimited throat depth, allowing the production of large, complex components. Six models are available with maximum bending length from 625 mm up to 3.2 m. Full-length bending capacity in mild steel is up to 1.6 mm thick, or 1.0 mm in stainless steel. Even aluminium or other non-ferrous materials can be processed as the magnetic clamping force passes through them and pulls the clamp bar down onto the sheet. In essence, the machine is a long electromagnet with a steel clamp bar located above it. The only power needed for operation is a 240V, single-phase supply. At the press of a button, a sheet metal workpiece is clamped between the bar and magnet by a force of several tones.