In a fabrication shop or manufacturing plant, a brake press operator is in charge of the large machines that bend and shape metal sheets. He or she examines blueprints, takes precise measurements, and feeds raw materials into brake presses that are programmed to produce custom sheets and metal parts. Most modern brake presses are computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines, especially those used in large plants. They are fully automated robotic machines that bend, curve, and punch holes in accordance with the brake press operator’s electronic instructions.
CNC brake presses are intricate machines, and manipulating them to produce precise bends and curves necessitates the expertise of a skilled brake press operator. Operators make small adjustments to their codes to prepare machines for specific jobs, and other specialists called programmers create the general instructions for presses. The operator studies blueprints to determine the exact dimensions and angles required for a final product, then enters the information into the computer program. He or she places a blank sheet on the machine’s base or feeding bar, turns it on, and monitors the job’s progress.
When a piece is finished, the brake press operator inspects it thoroughly to ensure it meets specifications. If something isn’t working properly, the operator can change the programming code and start over with a new blank sheet. Operators are often responsible for routine maintenance duties to keep presses in proper working order, in addition to programming and controlling machines. They clean and inspect equipment, looking for worn gears and replacing parts as needed.
In some smaller fabrication shops, instead of entering numerical commands, operators manually control mechanical or hydraulic brake presses. A professional must align a blank sheet according to specifications, adjust the punch depth and force, and manipulate levers to work the metal. Working with manual presses leaves a lot more room for error, but a skilled, careful brake press operator can still produce high-quality end products without the help of pre-programmed computer commands.
Although some employers prefer to hire graduates of two-year vocational school programs, most new brake press operators receive their training on the job through formal apprenticeships. As an apprentice, you will learn from experienced operators and supervisors about policies, procedures, and techniques. Before moving on to more complex projects, he or she usually starts with relatively simple setups to get a feel for the machinery and CNC programs. As an apprentice gains experience, he or she is often given more responsibilities and eventually allowed to work unsupervised.