A Bending machine (also called a bending brake) is a tool used to form bends and creases in sheet metal. It consists of a flat surface onto which the material is placed, and a clamping bar which will come down and hold the material firmly during the bend - this clamping action may be automatic or operated using a foot pedal. The front, gate-like, plate of the machine is hinged and may be lifted, forcing the material to bend to follow the plate.

Different shapes may be fitted to the clamping bar to permit bending of restricted areas of a piece of sheet metal or of already partially formed pieces.