Power Presses

Find the right mechanical power press for your machining company
By Jess Buskirk Whether you're looking for a small power drill press or a 16-ton hydraulic press, you need the right machine to complete the job. A metal-press machine and metal forming press are often used in assembly production. While some presses are ready to use straight from the manufacturer, others require programming to perform their individual functions.

Power presses are a large investment for your business, and buying one can be a long, research-intensive process if you don't know exactly what your company needs. When buying a power press, consider the following:

1. Increasing capabilities with a programmable power press.

2. Getting a transfer system and feedline to increase efficiency.

3. Purchasing a pre-owned press from a reputable company to cut down your expenses without sacrificing quality.

4. Anticipating cost for servicing the press and replacing parts.

Ensure flexibility with industrial programmable power presses

Depending on your machining business, you could need several different types of power presses. Although some industrial presses are "one size fits all" in that they can be programmed to perform different functions, if you machine a wide range of products, these presses might not be ideal.
Try:  If you're manufacturing small, intricate parts for electronics, office equipment or vehicles, consider purchasing The Minster Piece-Maker press. Request a quote from Stamtec, Inc., for the company's transfer press. The press is capable of running large, odd-shaped and deep-formed parts, and can be customized based on your specifications. Janesville Tool and Manufacturing offers a line of precision pneumatic and manual presses that can be geared for specific operations, including assembly work and shearing, punching and shaping light-gauge stock, metal and plastic.

Spend less by purchasing pre-owned power presses

Machine companies often sell or trade in their working power presses. Some tool companies refurbish damaged industrial presses and sell them at a discount. Purchasing pre-owned equipment can save you money, but be sure to ask about the company's warranty and return policy in case the press doesn't work properly.
Try:  Browse the used-equipment inventory at Technical Machine Products. The world-wide distributor designs, manufactures, rebuilds and services hydraulic presses, components and controls. Fill out a quote request for a pre-owned power drill press at Ray Jacobs Machinery Company.

Add a mechanical power press transfer system

Mechanical press shops that use multiple stations need a transfer system to transport parts between the stations. The transfer station functions directly with the press, and companies that customize mechanical power presses can integrate the transfer system so it's like having one machine.
Try:  Whether you have a retro or new metal press, GPA Transfer Systems by Optima USA, Inc., uses integrated subassemblies allowing for multiple application modes. Request a quote for a transfer system and watch a video on press automation at Wayne Trail Technologies, which offers modular and programmable multi-purpose transfer systems.

Prepare to replace power press parts

Like all machines, a heavy duty press will suffer wear and tear. To prevent unnecessary downtime, you should have a plan in place before your equipment breaks down. Make sure you know of at least two companies that keep power press parts in their inventory so you're not waiting for parts to be special ordered.
Try:  Columbia Machine Works, Inc., keeps an inventory of press replacement parts so there's no delay in getting your parts. The company can also take over the entire process if you're not familiar with power press repair. Request a quote from D&S Machine Repair, Inc., which specializes in stamping press repair. The company can repair your press either in your shop or at its own facility.

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has guidelines for mechanical power presses. Schedule a power press inspection before putting the press into operation.