Beckwood engineers 75-ton hot forming press for Cutting Dynamics

St. Louis-based Beckwood Press Co., a manufacturer of custom hydraulic presses, automation systems, and the Triform line of precision forming equipment, has partnered with aerospace parts supplier Cutting Dynamics to design and manufacture a 75-ton hydraulic press used to hot-form titanium structural components.

Capable of temperatures up to 1,600 degrees F, the custom press uses electric cartridge heaters to provide even temperature distribution throughout the forming process, increasing the malleability of titanium and reducing springback. Using nine zones of heat control in each platen, operators can maintain a constant platen temperature to within +/-5 degrees F throughout the cycle. Additionally, automatic insulated door systems increase heat efficiency and maintain the desired temperature set points while facilitating easy part and tool loading.

The press also has capabilities for superplastic forming, using high-temperature argon gas to form high-strength materials into complex geometric shapes in a single operation.

The PressLink™ remote support module offers fast, complimentary troubleshooting and facilitates program updates without the need for an on-site service visit.