Automec CNC Backgauges for Multi-Bend Parts

An Automec CNC backgauge replaces repeated manual gauge positioning with a reusable sequence for multi-bend press-brake parts. Recurring channels, unequal-flange brackets, covers and shallow trays are practical candidates when each bend has an accessible gauging reference. The process remains operator-loaded: the operator still handles, supports and reorients the sheet.

The AUTOMEC CNC BACKGAUGE CONTROL SYSTEMS product family is the equipment considered here, with the CNC 600 as the documented control configuration. Its programming features organize the sequence; the selected control and installed mechanics determine which movements the system can execute.

Program changing gauge positions in one job

The CNC 600 supports up to 20 bends per job, programmable delay and retract between bends, and incremental corrections. Stored jobs and USB transfer support reuse of established programs, making returning small-batch work a useful application without repeatedly entering the same settings.

Consider a hypothetical channel with unequal flanges. The first bend uses its established gauge setting. After the operator turns the sheet, the next bend uses a different setting for the second flange. A programmed sequence organizes those changes instead of requiring a manual gauge adjustment between bends.

The deciding detail is the contact surface at each step. A bracket or channel is a good candidate only when its intended edge or formed surface can reach the gauge consistently and clear the tooling. Job recall preserves programmed settings, but it does not verify the current material, tooling or machine setup.

Use step images for part orientation

The CNC 600 edit screen accepts an imported image for each sequence step. A photo can provide an orientation reference when a cover or shallow tray must be turned or flipped between bends.

These images are operator aids, not machine vision. They do not confirm that the correct edge contacts the gauge. Each image should clearly relate to the intended orientation and reference surface so the operator can connect the displayed step to the partially formed part.

Choose the controlled movements the part needs

The CNC 600 supports one-, two- and three-axis system configurations. Its illustrated edit screen distinguishes:

• X: horizontal backgauge position.
• Y: ram position.
• R: vertical gauge-bar position.

A touchscreen showing those fields does not establish that every installation controls all three movements. Horizontal gauging, compatible ram-depth control and optional gauge-height control need to be matched separately to the brake and gauge package.

A programmed Y position is a ram-depth setting, not a measurement of the finished bend angle. Angle measurement and automatic springback compensation are separate requirements; neither should be inferred from the CNC 600’s incremental-correction feature. If angle variation is the main concern, distinguish that problem from repeated manual gauge positioning before choosing the package.

Use programmable height when references change

The optional inverted R-axis changes gauge-bar height between bends. It can be useful when forming changes the height of the surface that contacts the gauge, allowing compatible equipment to make the required height changes programmatically.

The inverted R-axis can also lower the gauge bar below the die to clear a deep sheet extending beyond horizontal gauge travel. That clearance does not extend automatic gauging range: the brochure’s beyond-travel example uses manual measurement.

Covers and shallow trays therefore need a view of the partially formed work at each bend, not just the finished drawing. Deep boxes, inaccessible references and obstructing flanges may require a different gauging approach even when the control can store the sequence.

Match the mechanics to the application

The available backgauges differ in travel, gauge-bar dimensions and recommended press-brake width. Those physical limits determine whether the gauge can reach and support the required references; controller features alone do not establish fit.

Existing Automec G24, CNC99, CNC1000 and CNC2000 systems have a documented control-upgrade path when their mechanical structure remains in good working condition. The backgauge serial number is required for correct control configuration. A replacement controller does not repair worn mechanics.

Safeguarding remains a separate requirement for the complete press brake. OSHA requires protection against relevant machine hazards, and its press-brake guidance treats back gauges as complementary equipment rather than replacements for feasible primary safeguarding. Programmed retract or reversal alone does not establish compliant protection; the complete application needs a qualified safeguarding assessment.

I’m Adam Quoss, Vice President of Sales at Mac-Tech, serving Illinois and Indiana. I can help assess whether an Automec CNC backgauge system fits your bend sequence and whether the CNC 600’s programming and operator-interface features suit the work. Bring representative drawings or formed samples, the intended sequence and contact surfaces, material and tooling details, required tolerances, brake and backgauge identification, and typical batch sizes. I can work with Mac-Tech’s team to evaluate compatible controlled movements, programming choices and operator training needs.