Chicago Dries Handbrake Model BPU 412-6

• Model BPU 412-6 (Hand) Box & Pan Brake 4' x12 gauge
• Capacity (ga) 12 gauge
• Hand Brake incorporates all of the outstanding features of the standard handbrake plus removable, sectioned fingers that can bend any length of metal from 3 inches to the full length of the machine.
• Standard equipment includes removable nose bar, bolted bottom bar, ½” insert bar, angle bar, insert clamp bar, counter weights and stop gauge. 
• Clamping Handles are connected by full length Clamp Shaft to allow one operator to clamp work piece from either Right or Left Clamping position. 
• Overall Length 4'
• Dimensions 90"L x 53"W x 60"H
• Weight 2,065 lbs
• Bending length 48”Capacity (mild steel) 12 Ga.
• Capacity (stainless steel) 16 Ga.
• Finger extension depth 6”
• Number and width of fingers with nose bar: 
• 5 – 3” 
• 2 – 4”
• 5 – 5”

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.

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✅ 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.

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⚙️ 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)

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 🔧  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

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💡   Common Applications

• Sheet metal box/pan fabrication
• HVAC ductwork (end caps, transitions)
• Automotive restoration & bodywork
• Electrical enclosures
• Custom panels and sheet components

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🏭 Industries That Use It

• Metal fabrication
• Sheet metal & HVAC shops
• Electrical enclosure manufacturers
• Maintenance departments
• Technical colleges and training facilities

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📌 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.