Power press
[edit] What is a power press ?
A power presse is a metalworking machine which is used to cut, shape, punch, bend or press metal sheet as required.
The machine comprises of a tool or die, a bed, a ram or slide, with a clutch, flywheel and crankshaft. A positive clutch power press is one that completes a full revolution each time it is functioning, thus cannot be stopped midway. A Friction clutch power press can be stopped part way through a cycle or part revolution.
There are a number of different types of power press available all of which are used in the metal manufacturing using pressure forming:
- C-frame: for continual precision manufacturing of small presses at around 100 tons of pressure, used cold-working of ductile metals like mild steel,
- H-frame or straight frame: for continual precision manufacturing of presses at around 400 tons of pressure.
- Hybrid frame or ring frame: for continual precision manufacturing of presses at around 200 tons of pressure.
- H frames with tie rods: for heavy sheet metal forming.
Power presses fall under the UK Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 and further information can be found on the UK HSE websit under Safe use of power presses, approved code of practice and guidance.
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