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Press selection—sorting it out Part VIII

Part VIII: Which Automation System Goes with Which Press?

Matching Press Characteristics to Your Applications

The following questions–and their answers, provided by industry equipment manufacturers and experts–are intended as a general guide to help you simplify the daunting task of selecting a press or press system.

8. Which Automation System Goes with Which Press?

[Rule of Thumb] "Automating a progressive-die press system in conjunction with coil feeders or transfer-die operations that use transfer feeds typically requires a straight-side press," Boerger said. "If an automated progressive-die press system is to be used to form high-strength material, the presses should have minimum press tonnages of 800 to 1,000.

[Rule of Thumb] "Double-crank straight-side presses can produce large-scale parts requiring corresponding stroke lengths. When used in a tandem line, automation can deliver improved productivity as parts are moved from press to press," Boerger added.

[Rule of Thumb] "In a multipress system, a straight-side press can run individually; when extra tooling is required, it can run as a single large transfer press by initiating the intermediate stage between the presses and running them in a continuous, synchronized operation," Boerger said.

[Rule of Thumb] Tie-rod straight-side presses can provide long or short strokes for transfer or progressive-die operations. However, unitized-frame straight-side presses also can meet the same production requirements. Two unitized-frame straight-side presses can provide up to 12 tooling stations, with material feeding left to right through both presses," Boerger said. "When used individually, the first press feeds left to right with up to six tooling stations. The second press can stamp a different part, feeding material right to left with up to six tooling stations.

[Tip] This combination can provide more tonnage capacity without a dedicated transfer system," Boerger said.

About the Author

Kate Bachman

Contributing editor

815-381-1302

Kate Bachman is a contributing editor for The FABRICATOR editor. Bachman has more than 20 years of experience as a writer and editor in the manufacturing and other industries.