What Is an Under Drive Mechanical Press?
An under drive mechanical press is a type of mechanical press where the drive mechanism, including the motor and flywheel, is located below the bed of the press. This contrasts with traditional presses, where the drive is typically mounted above or behind the press. The "under drive" design often incorporates a pit or recess in the floor to accommodate the drive mechanism, making the press more compact vertically.
Features of an Under Drive Mechanical Press:
Compact Vertical Design:
The drive system being located below the press bed allows for a more compact design, which can be advantageous in facilities with height restrictions.
Improved Accessibility:
The open design of the press area, with the drive mechanism tucked below, provides better access to the die area for operations like loading, unloading, and maintenance.
Lower Center of Gravity:
By placing the heaviest components lower, under drive presses tend to have a lower center of gravity, which can enhance stability during high-speed operations.
Why Choose an Under Drive Press Over a Normal Straight Side Press?
Space Efficiency:
Vertical Space: In environments where vertical space is limited, such as facilities with low ceilings, under drive presses are beneficial because they reduce the overall height of the press.
Floor Space: They can sometimes be more space-efficient overall because of their compact design, allowing for more efficient use of the available shop floor area.
Enhanced Die Access:
With the drive mechanism located below, there’s often better access to the die area from the sides and top, making it easier to perform die changes, adjustments, and maintenance. This can lead to faster changeovers and reduced downtime.
Improved Stability and Vibration Control:
The lower center of gravity and the potential for better vibration damping due to the positioning of the drive mechanism can result in smoother operation, particularly in high-speed stamping applications. This can improve the precision of the press and reduce wear and tear on the equipment.
Ergonomic Benefits:
Operators may find under drive presses easier to work with due to the improved access and the potentially lower working height of the press bed. This can reduce the physical strain associated with certain tasks, contributing to better workplace ergonomics.
Aesthetics and Workflow:
The cleaner, more open design of an under drive press can contribute to a better-organized workspace, allowing for improved workflow and potentially enhancing safety by reducing clutter around the press.
Comparison with Normal Straight Side Press:
Normal Straight Side Press:
Drive Location: Typically has the drive system mounted above or behind the press, leading to a taller overall structure.
Accessibility: Access to the die area can be more restricted, especially from the top.
Application: Often used in heavy-duty applications where the vertical space is not a constraint, and where the focus is on maximum tonnage and rigidity.
Under Drive Press:
Drive Location: The drive system is positioned below the press bed, making it more compact.
Accessibility: Improved access to the die area, particularly from the top and sides.
Application: Ideal for facilities with space constraints or where quick die changes and improved ergonomics are important.
Summary:
Choosing an under drive mechanical press over a traditional straight side press is often a matter of space efficiency, improved accessibility, and enhanced operational ergonomics. If your facility has height restrictions, requires quick die changes, or prioritizes operator access and safety, an under drive press might be the better option. However, if your focus is on heavy-duty applications with less concern about vertical space, a traditional straight-side press may still be the preferred choice.