Which metal forming process uses a press to shape sheet metal by bending?

Which metal forming process uses a press to shape sheet metal by bending?

• A. Line bending
• B. Press forming
• C. Rolling
• D. Cupping

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is shaping sheet metal by bending with a press. In this process, the sheet sits on a die and is forced by a punch to bend along a line, producing a precise angle and bend radius. The force from the press causes controlled plastic deformation so only the bend region changes shape while the rest stays flat. This is the classic press brake operation, ideal for making brackets, enclosures, and panels with consistent, repeatable bends. Rolling, by contrast, changes thickness and curves the metal through rollers; cupping draws a cup by stretching the metal into a cavity rather than bending along a line; line bending is a different technique and not the standard method for bending sheet metal with a press.

The main idea here is shaping sheet metal by bending with a press. In this process, the sheet sits on a die and is forced by a punch to bend along a line, producing a precise angle and bend radius. The force from the press causes controlled plastic deformation so only the bend region changes shape while the rest stays flat. This is the classic press brake operation, ideal for making brackets, enclosures, and panels with consistent, repeatable bends.

Rolling, by contrast, changes thickness and curves the metal through rollers; cupping draws a cup by stretching the metal into a cavity rather than bending along a line; line bending is a different technique and not the standard method for bending sheet metal with a press.