Dreis & Krump Overview: Company History, Metal Forming Machines and Capabilities
Dreis & Krump – Manufacturer Overview
Introduction
Dreis & Krump (often known as Chicago Dreis & Krump) is one of the oldest and most established metal forming machine manufacturers in the United States, specializing in sheet metal fabrication equipment rather than roll forming machines.
The company is known for producing durable, heavy-duty machines such as press brakes, shears, and bending equipment, widely used across fabrication industries.
Company History and Background
Dreis & Krump has a long industrial history dating back to the late 19th century.
The company was originally founded in 1899, developing early hand-operated forming equipment that laid the foundation for modern sheet metal machinery
Key milestones include
1896–1899
Early hand brake designs introduced
1910–1920
Expansion into mechanical press brakes and shears
1940s
Large-scale production supporting military manufacturing during WWII
1960s onwards
Introduction of hydraulic press brakes and expanded tooling capabilities
Today, the company continues to operate with over 100 years of service, maintaining its reputation for long-lasting machines
Company Philosophy
Dreis & Krump is built around a traditional manufacturing philosophy focused on
Durability
Simplicity
Long machine life
Their core message reflects this
“Building ‘em like they had to last forever”
This approach has resulted in machines that often remain in operation for decades, particularly in fabrication shops.
Location and Manufacturing
Dreis & Krump is based in
Peotone, Illinois, USA
The company operates
Manufacturing and assembly operations in the United States
Parts and service support from its Illinois facility
Its production is primarily focused on
North American markets
Industrial fabrication customers
Industries Served
Dreis & Krump machines are widely used across heavy and light fabrication industries.
Key industries include
Sheet metal fabrication
Construction and building products
Automotive manufacturing
Aerospace components
General industrial manufacturing
Their machines are especially suited for
Custom fabrication shops
Maintenance and repair workshops
Industrial production facilities
Core Product Categories
Unlike roll forming manufacturers, Dreis & Krump focuses on sheet metal forming and fabrication equipment.
Main product categories include
Press brake tooling
Sheet metal shears
Hand brakes
Bending rolls
Power leaf brakes
Hydraulic press brakes
Mechanical presses and notchers
These machines are used for
Cutting
Bending
Forming
Shaping sheet metal
Machine Types and Capabilities Overview
Dreis & Krump machines are designed for precision bending and forming rather than continuous roll forming.
Capabilities include
High-precision sheet metal bending
Cutting and shearing of steel, aluminum, and other metals
Forming complex shapes and components
Manual and hydraulic operation depending on machine type
Their equipment ranges from
Manual hand-operated machines
Hydraulic and powered systems
Heavy-duty industrial machines
Engineering and Product Design
Dreis & Krump machines are known for
Heavy-duty steel construction
Simple, reliable mechanical systems
Long service life
Many machines are designed with
Minimal electronics
Robust mechanical components
This makes them
Easy to maintain
Less prone to complex failures
Suitable for long-term use
Market Position
Dreis & Krump occupies a different segment compared to roll forming machine manufacturers.
They compete in
Sheet metal fabrication equipment
Press brake and bending machinery
Industrial forming equipment
Key strengths
Extremely durable machines
Long-standing reputation
Strong presence in fabrication shops
Limitations
Not focused on roll forming production lines
Limited automation compared to modern CNC systems
Less suited for high-speed continuous production
Global Reach
While primarily U.S.-focused, Dreis & Krump machines are used globally through
Distributors
Used equipment markets
Export sales
Due to their durability, many machines remain in operation worldwide for decades.
Machine Matcher Insight
From a Machine Matcher perspective, Dreis & Krump is best suited for
Fabrication shops
Workshops needing bending and cutting equipment
Businesses requiring long-lasting, simple machines
Key strengths
Proven durability over decades
Simple mechanical design
Strong reputation in fabrication
Key considerations
Not a roll forming machine manufacturer
Limited automation compared to modern CNC systems
Focused on fabrication rather than production lines
Conclusion
Dreis & Krump is a heritage manufacturer of sheet metal forming equipment, with over a century of experience in building durable, reliable machines.
While not a roll forming specialist, the company plays a critical role in the broader metal fabrication industry, providing essential equipment for bending, cutting, and forming metal components.
For businesses focused on fabrication rather than continuous roll forming, Dreis & Krump remains a trusted and proven choice.