Press Operator how-to

How to Set Up a Press Brake Bend

Good setups make accurate bends.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good setups make accurate bends. In short: read; pick; set, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Read the drawing.

  2. Pick punch and die.

  3. Set the backgauge.

  4. Bend a test piece.

  5. Measure the angle.

  6. Adjust.

Safety reminders for press operators

  • Never bypass guards
  • Use light curtains
  • Lock out for die changes
  • Wear cut gloves

Stamping · Die · Press brake · Tonnage · Shut height · Progressive die: see the full press operator glossary.

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