Press

The types of power presses available for metal cutting and forming operations vary depending on the selection of type operation.

Presses are classified by

1. Type of frame
2. Source of power
3. method of actuation of slides
4. Number of slides incorporated
5. Intended use

Frame type

The frame of a press is fabricated by casting or by welding heavy steel plates. Cast frame are quite stable and rigid but expensive. The general classification by frames include s the gap frame and the straight side.

Source of power

The great majority of presses receive their power mechanically or hydraulically. Few are hand-operated through levers or screws, but they are hardly suited for high production.

Classification by method can be varied

The flywheel of a press drives the main shaft, which in turn changes the rotary motion of flywheel into a linear motion of the slide or ram. This is generally accomplished by incorporating crankpins or eccentrics into the main drive shaft.

Number of slides incorporated

The number of slides incorporated in a single press is called the action, the number of rams on the press. Thus a single action press has one slide. A double action press has two slides, an inner and an outer slide.