Building giant press brakes at Ursviken

The sheet metal solution and service providers at Ursviken have a reputation for thinking big. Indeed, the team is currently constructing the largest press brake in the industry. The Optima will have a bending length of 73 ft, a bending force of 5500 US tons and stand 33 ft above floor level. This enormous press brake will be anchored in a pit 20 ft deep. According to Anton Nordqvist, technical sales support for Ursviken, it will take operators more than 1 minute to walk around the machine. Seven front and back gauges, 11 sheet followers and approximately 500 ft of linear rails are key components of the design/build, with the company expecting completion in first quarter of this year.

“A single, large press brake can give a manufacturer more flexibility to bend bigger, longer parts because you aren’t limited by a C-frame configuration,” explains Jamie Sims, general manager at Ursviken Inc.

The new press brake showcases the company’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge solutions that redefine the capabilities of the metal fabrication industry. Notably, the machine features state-of-the-art automation technologies that significantly enhance productivity, precision and ease of operation. Automatic upper tool changes, variable die tooling and fully programmable front and back gauges are just a few examples of the cutting-edge features that contribute to the machine’s performance. 

Nicklas Jakobsson, CEO at Ursviken Technology, says: “The sale of the largest press brake ever built showcases our dedication to providing our customers with the most advanced and innovative solutions available in the market.” 

Ursviken says its milestone machine is the latest in a line of industry firsts that include automated sheet flipping technology, integrated CNC crowning, CNC variable die tools and the company’s proprietary FlexiCrown CNC crowning system.

For further information www.ursviken.com

Significant step forward for Clijsters BVBA

Clijsters BVBA has commissioned a new SafanDarley H-Brake 700T Ultra. This hydraulic press brake has a capacity of 700 tonnes and can bend sheets up to 7 m long. The investment marks a significant step forward in Clijsters’ production capacity.

The decision to invest in the new press brake stemmed from the need to replace an old machine. Managers at Clijsters BVBA searched for a modern press brake that would better meet its specific production needs. After extensive research and consultation, the company chose SafanDarley, partly because of the company’s ability to provide tailor-made solutions.

SafanDarley adapted the new hydraulic press brake to Clijsters BVBA’s specific requirements. Providing significantly improved accuracy and precision, the H-Brake will play a crucial role in increasing production efficiency and delivering high-quality products that meet Clijsters BVBA’s strict standards.

One of the added options is SafanDarley’s advanced laser angle measuring system: E-Bend L-Blue. This dedicated angle measurement system allows Clijsters BVBA to measure the angles of the material that requires bending in real time using laser technology. Measurement data is then automatically used to control the press brake, minimising human error and raising production quality to a higher level.

Eric Clijsters, director of Clijsters BVBA, speaks enthusiastically about the investment: “The purchase of our new press brake marks an important milestone. We’re always delighted to increase our production capacity and invest in the latest technologies. This modern press brake allows us to meet the ever-growing demand of our customers while ensuring the highest quality.”


Frank Clijsters, co-owner of Clijsters BVBA, adds: “We are convinced that this new press brake will enable us to serve our customers even better and exploit new business opportunities.”

For further information www.safandarley.com

Innovative bending solutions showcased by RAS

At November’s Blechexpo exhibition in Stuttgart, RAS showcased its extensive range of cutting-edge sheet metal machinery solutions. Among the highlights was the RAS MEGAbend, the Multibend Center ECOauto, the FLEXI2bend, and advanced beading, flanging and folding machines. RAS machines are available in the UK from Press & Shear.

The MEGAbend stood out with its high performance and precision, capable of bending steel measuring up to 6 mm thick. According to Press & Shear, its advanced features set new benchmarks in sheet metal processing.

Also on display, the Multibend Center ECOauto demonstrated its innovative automation functions, significantly boosting production efficiency, while the FLEXI2bend was showcased as a versatile tool for various bending applications, highlighting the diversity of the RAS product line. Beading, folding and flanging machines completed the portfolio, highlighting the expertise of RAS in forming technology.

The company’s exhibition stand was a showcase of more than just cutting-edge sheet metal machinery; it was a testament to modern design and thoughtful product presentation, including live demonstrations. These demonstrations, alongside the stand’s structured layout, allowed visitors to gain a hands-on understanding of RAS’s innovative offerings and see the machinery in action.

Blechexpo was marked by active engagement, with visitors showing keen interest in the machines on display. Technical discussions at the stand reflected a dynamic exchange on the latest trends in sheet metal processing, with positive feedback underscoring the alignment of RAS with industry needs.

The trade fair marked a significant milestone for RAS. It provided an excellent platform to showcase the company’s latest technologies and innovations to a broad audience. The positive reception has bolstered the optimistic outlook of RAS for the future.

For further information www.pressandshear.com

EOS joins MTC

Additive manufacturing (AM) specialist EOS has joined The MTC (Manufacturing Technology Centre) as a tier 3 member, marking a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between the two companies. EOS’ new membership will also extend the MTC’s range of AM options for defence, power and energy customers with the addition of an EOS M 290 equipped with EOSTATE Exposure OT in-process melt pool monitoring. This acquisition will enable the research technology organisation to develop more advanced materials for use in AM and expand its range of applications.

For further information www.the-mtc.org

Rcapital buys FGP Group

Private investor Rcapital has completed the acquisition of aerospace and defence engineering business, FGP Group. The deal will protect over 200 jobs in Dorset. FGP Group comprises Weymouth-based FGP Systems Ltd, a precision engineering business which provides tight-tolerance machining, turning and fabrication services to blue-chip aerospace and defence customers, and FGP Lufton Ltd, which is based in Yeovil and manufactures a portfolio of parts for the aerospace sector. The group also includes a successful surface treatment and coating business, Ramp Surface Coatings.

For further information www.rcapital.co.uk