The Chicago BPU 412-6 is a manual (hand-operated) box & pan brake built for forming precise bends, boxes, trays, and pans in sheet metal up to 12-gauge mild steel. Known for its robust construction and legendary reliability, it is a staple in metal fabrication shops, HVAC facilities, and maintenance departments.
________________________________________
✅ What It Does
The BPU 412-6 is used to bend and shape flat sheet metal into:
• Boxes and pans with sides
• Flanges, hems, or offsets
• Angular bends (0–135°)
• Custom-formed enclosures or sheet metal parts
It’s especially useful for forming parts that require multiple sides, such as:
• Electrical panels
• HVAC duct boxes
• Tool trays
• Brackets or housings
The removable fingers make it easy to bend tabs, sides, and segmented sections that would be impossible on a straight brake.
________________________________________
⚙️ Key Specifications
Specification Detail
Model BPU 412-6
Bending Length 48″ (4 feet)
Maximum Capacity 12 gauge mild steel (approx. 0.1046″ thick)
Maximum Box Depth ~4–5 inches (based on finger removal)
Bend Angle Range Up to 135° (adjustable stop for repeatability)
Clamping Style Manual clamp lever
Fingers (Box & Pan Dies) Removable/adjustable for custom bends
Weight Approx. 1,000–1,200 lbs
Operation Manual (no electric or hydraulic assist)
________________________________________
🔧 Core Features & Capabilities
• Segmented Finger Dies: Allows for forming closed boxes, channels, and narrow profiles
• Manual Clamping Handle: Provides fast setup and precision bending control
• Heavy-Duty Frame: Welded steel frame for long-term durability and rigidity
• Spring-Loaded Counterbalance: Assists operator in lifting the apron smoothly
• Adjustable Stops: For consistent repeat bends
• Precision Bearings: Smooth and accurate hinge motion for controlled bends
________________________________________
💡 Common Applications
• Sheet metal box/pan fabrication
• HVAC ductwork (end caps, transitions)
• Automotive restoration & bodywork
• Electrical enclosures
• Custom panels and sheet components
________________________________________
🏭 Industries That Use It
• Metal fabrication
• Sheet metal & HVAC shops
• Electrical enclosure manufacturers
• Maintenance departments
• Technical colleges and training facilities
________________________________________
📌 Summary Description
The CHICAGO BPU 412-6 is a hand-operated, precision box & pan brake designed for forming 12-gauge sheet metal up to 48″ wide. With removable segmented fingers and a heavy-duty frame, it enables accurate forming of boxes, pans, flanges, and other complex bends—making it a reliable solution for fabricators, repair shops, and educational settings.