Introduction to Stamping Presses Stamping presses have played a big role in manufacturing operations for decades. Some also refer to these machines as power presses or punch presses. From automotive components to intricate electronic parts, stamping presses have long been and still are vital to the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing operations across numerous industries. Whether you currently own and operate stamping presses or are new to metal stamping, this article will provide a basic overview to help you gain a better understanding of the machines responsible for producing the many parts that make up the world around us. The History of The Stamping Press Most people point to the 19th century when discussing the origins of the metal stamping press. Before this time, most stamping and metal forming were performed by hand-operated mechanisms, but as populations grew and demand increased, so did the complexity and capabilities of these machines. In the late 1800s, presses powered by steam were developed. These early developments dramatically improved manufacturing operations' productivity, precision, and efficiency. The 20th century introduced even greater machine capabilities when flywheels and electric motors were incorporated into stamping presses, allowing for dramatically faster production of metal components. Over the years as enhancements and innovations improved, the modern mechanical and hydraulic presses that we know of and use today were developed. These newer machine iterations offer greatly enhanced precision, productivity, control, and efficiency. Early into the 21st century, the servo press was introduced to the manufacturing world drastically furthering what could be accomplished in stamping. The stamping press's evolution has helped manufacturers keep up with the needs of the modern highly demanding and technological society. Today, stamping presses are more versatile and efficient than ever, thanks to the ongoing improvements that accommodate various materials and complex geometries. The evolution of the stamping press has helped them remain as a key component in modern manufacturing environments by empowering industries with greater production capabilities and finer control over quality. How Stamping Presses Work A stamping press functions by converting rotational motion into linear motion, using force to form or cut sheet metal into desired shapes. The press uses a die—a specially designed tool—to shape, cut, or punch materials, such as steel or aluminum, to create specific components. The combination of speed, force, and precision allows stamping presses to produce large quantities of identical parts rapidly and efficiently. The stamping process involves three key stages: feeding the material, forming the material, and removing the finished product. Raw metal is fed into the press, where the machine’s ram moves down with force, shaping or cutting the metal through the die. Depending on the type of stamping process—such as blanking, coining, or drawing—the press can create different parts with high repeatability and accuracy. Anatomy of a Stamping Press Becoming familiar with their main components is important to better understand stamping presses. Frame This is the main structural body that holds all other components in place. The frame must be robust enough to withstand the dynamic forces produced during stamping. Press Drive Mechanism The Drive mechanism of a press powers the movement of the ram. Based on the type of press, it can be mechanical, hydraulic, or servo-driven. From there the classifications are then broken down even further based on the type of connection between the drive and the ram, which we plan to discuss in a future article. Ram The moving part that applies force to the die and forms, cuts, or punches the material into the desired shape. It is powered by a drive system, which as mentioned above depending on the type of press machine can be mechanical, servo, or hydraulic. Press Controls The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) allows the operator to program and monitor the operation of the press. Today state-of-the-art presses come with digital controls that have provisions and functions to make stamping more accurate and consistent, while also keeping operators informed about the status of the machine. Die Set The tool that gives the desired shape to the workpiece. Dies are typically comprised of an upper and lower portion with the upper portion mounted to the ram and the lower portion mounted to the press work table or bolster plate. Stamping dies can be custom-made for each specific part to be manufactured. Work Table/Bolster Plate The fixed lower part of the press, where the lower half of the die is mounted and withstands the working force. For some stamping operations, the scrap or complete parts fall through an opening in the bolster, which can be customized based on the needs of the user. This is not an exhaustive list of press components and parts, as many other elements of a press are crucial to their operation, but this serves as a good starting point for those who are new to this type of machinery. Types Of Stamping Presses Though the mechanisms, controls, and applications may differ, the core principle remains the same for the different types of presses, and that is they generate a great deal of force to be used in forming, cutting, or drawing metal into a desired shape. Another way in which stamping presses are categorized is according to the different types available for use in different applications, all with their own set of advantages. The main classifications are mechanical, hydraulic, and servo presses. Mechanical Stamping Presses Mechanical presses achieve their stamping action through energy stored and released from a large flywheel. The mechanical press's ability to produce parts at high speeds enables them to be better suited for higher-volume production environments. Advantages: High speed Production capability with consistency High-volume manufacturing feasible Hydraulic Stamping Presses Hydraulic presses use a hydraulic cylinder to develop force, which provides more control over the press operation. Hydraulic presses are capable of high tonnage that can be applied at any point in the stroke, which makes them suitable for work involving deep drawing, complex forming, and advanced high-strength materials. Advantages: High tonnage capacity Precise control over force and speed Well-suited for deep drawing applications or large workpieces Servo Stamping Presses Servo presses, as evidenced by the name, utilize servo motors to drive the press ram. Servo presses possess the ability to program the stroke motion profile. This enhances their precision, flexibility, and efficiency. Such presses are ideal for applications involving the stamping of complex parts. The servo motor provides very accurate control over the press stroke, speed, and position; hence it is a great solution in high-precision manufacturing. Advantages: High-precision and flexibility Efficiency Complex stamping tasks In this article, you can see how servo presses match up to their mechanical counterparts. Common Press Frame Configurations Stamping presses are available in different frame configurations, all of which are designed for specific applications, with various advantages for each. C Frame Presses The open frame design of the C frame press allows easy access to the worktable, the die, and the workpiece. C Frame presses are also commonly referred to as gap frame presses or OBI presses (open-back inclinable). These presses are compact and versatile, making them suitable for smaller stamping dies, or environments where floor space is limited. Advantages: Compact Versatile design Easy access to die and workpiece Learn more about our range of high-quality C Frame stamping presses. Straight Side Presses A straight-side press has a rigid frame structure that offers high precision, stability, and oftentimes additional working space. Therefore, it is used for heavy-duty stamping operations, large workpieces, and for progressive or transfer stamping applications. The straight-side design provides minimum deflection equating to higher accuracy and consistency in more demanding stamping applications. These presses also commonly have higher tonnage capabilities making them ideal in industries such as automotive or appliance manufacturing. Advantages: High precision and stability Suitable for heavy-duty operations Minimal deflection Larger workspace View our range of straight-side stamping presses. Applications of Stamping Presses Stamping Presses are utilized in nearly every industry at various points in the manufacturing process. Odds are a majority of the items you interact with on a day-to-day basis have some sort of stamped components. Some of the most significant uses are in the following industries: Automotive Manufacturing Stamping presses in the automotive industry are used as standard equipment for making body panels, mounting brackets, engine parts, and other common components of vehicles. In this case, the accuracy and efficiency of stamping presses guarantee the quality and quantities of the parts because they have to meet the rigid requirements demanded by the automobile industry. Aerospace Manufacturing The aerospace industry also resorts to using stamping presses to produce high-precision and high-volume components. Electronics Manufacturing The stamping press enables the production of small, intricate parts to be used in electronics and for electric connectors. In some high-volume electronic manufacturing operations high-speed stamping presses are utilized to produce as many of these small intricate parts as possible. Such parts find their application in consumer electronics, telecommunication devices, and other applications. Appliance Manufacturing Stamping presses are used to manufacture a variety of appliance components including structural elements, panels, and intricate fittings. Working with several different materials and producing products with uniform quality has made the stamping press an integral part of the appliance manufacturing industry. Medical Component Manufacturing Medical devices and their components demand a very high level of precision and reliability making stamping presses an ideal production solution for some areas of this industry. The industries listed above are only a few of the more common areas where a stamping press may be used, but they also play a big role in other areas like consumer product manufacturing. Advantages of Using Stamping Presses Precision and Accuracy Stamping presses allow for high productivity, precision, and repeatability in manufacturing components to meet exact quantities, specifications, and tolerances. Efficiency and Speed Modern stamping presses, like mechanical and servo presses, offer highly efficient production capabilities. Mechanical presses offer higher speeds and more simplicity, which raises efficiency, shortens production time, and enables the production of parts in very large quantities. Servo presses, while typically slower than mechanical presses, have the unique capability to program the stroke as needed. Versatility They can process various materials and make components that differ in size, shape, and functionality. Cost-Effectiveness Stamping presses can require a hefty up-front investment, but in the long run, they can bring dramatic cost savings and, if maintained properly, remain in operation for decades. The precision and efficiency of these machines ensure minimized material waste and greatly reduced potential errors in production. Stampings Press Safety Considerations Stamping presses generate high forces and have many moving parts, which, if not managed properly, can be seriously dangerous. This makes safety the number one priority above all else. Most modern presses incorporate several safety features to prevent operator injuries. Guarding Guards prevent access to the point of operation and other hazardous areas of the press. Common forms of guarding are physical barriers, light curtains, and interlocking safeguards. Emergency Stop An emergency stop button allows an operator to stop the press immediately in case of an emergency. This is an important feature to prevent injuries, accidents, and serious damage to the machine. Training Proper training is essential for an operator to be capable of running the press safely and efficiently. Training programs should include machine operation, safe working procedures, and emergency response in the event of an accident. Visit the Precision Metalforming Association's website to learn more about their operator training resources. Maintenance of the Stamping Press Regular maintenance is required to maintain the longevity of the press and better performance. This involves lubricating, inspecting, and replacing worn parts. Lubrication Proper lubrication minimizes friction and thus reduces wear on moving parts. This extends the life of the press while also aiding in maintaining the overall performance. Operators must check the press manual or with the manufacturer to determine what types of lubrication are suitable for their particular press. Inspection Inspecting the ram, die, and drive mechanism components regularly ensures the press runs trouble-free. Regular preventative maintenance inspections can help technicians spot issues before they turn into major repairs. Replacement of Worn Components The common wear components need to be replaced to prevent damage to the press and sustain precision and performance. One way to ensure minimal downtime is to keep an inventory of the common wear items to avoid lead times or delays when parts are needed. Future Trends in Metal Stamping Press Technology Stamping press technology and processes are only evolving further with new technological advancements and manufacturing requirements changing continuously. Automation and Robotics Stamping processes are increasingly being integrated with automation and robotics. Automation enhances efficiency, decreases labor costs, and improves safety by performing any type of repetitive or dangerous tasks. In recent years manufacturing operations have sought out automation and robotics as a means of combatting the ongoing labor shortages. Smart Manufacturing The adoption of smart manufacturing technologies is shifting the stamping industry. Those technologies provide real-time monitoring and insights into the optimization and status of stamping processes. Sustainable Practices There is an increasing trend in manufacturing regarding sustainability. Modern metal stamping presses and processes are designed to reduce energy use, cut down on waste, and ensure the use of more eco-friendly materials. The awareness of different stamping presses and their applications can make a huge difference in manufacturing efficiency and product quality. Whether you need a high-speed stamping press or a precision servo press, possessing the proper knowledge and equipment means everything. Want more in-depth information on each type of press, and how it can help your operations? Check out our other in-depth guides. Have questions, or need some help choosing the right equipment for your stamping operations? Someone from our team would be happy to help you, so contact our team today to find the best metal stamping press to fit your needs
Selecting the best press machine for your metal stamping operations is a very critical undertaking, which involves a great deal of understanding regarding the types of machines you choose to invest in. Some press types are better suited for certain production needs. In this article, we hope to give you a foundational understanding of the pros and cons of mechanical and servo presses, so you can be confident in choosing the proper press type for your next project or production expansion. Mechanical Press Technology The mechanical press machine has a long history in metal stamping seeing as how it was among the first kinematic mechanisms used in modern metal stamping. Mechanical presses are complex machines with multiple variations of the same machine type and have a wide range of applications and capabilities. Overview - Mechanical Stamping Presses A mechanical press machine is a type of press that can exert extreme amounts of force driven by mechanical means which involves a flywheel, crankshaft, and clutch-brake mechanism. Mechanical presses are fundamental machines in various metal forming operations due to their reliability, efficiency, and capability to produce a high volume of parts with consistent quality. One of the more common variations of a mechanical press is within the frame which we compare in another article here: C frame vs straight side presses. Working Principle & Applications - Mechanical Presses The fundamental working principle of a mechanical press involves the conversion of rotational energy into linear motion. This is accomplished by the flywheel storing rotational energy and releasing a controlled portion of said energy to drive the ram of the press. The ram then uses the force applied to shape the material based on the composition of the tool and die. This entire process is done with a great deal of speed and precision which is one of the many reasons why mechanical press machines are essential in high volume production environments. Mechanical Presses are versatile machines and are suited for several common metal stamping applications such as: Blanking Coining Drawing Shearing Embossing Bending Punching Advantages - Mechanical Presses Speed & Efficiency Mechanical Stamping Presses excel in operating at higher speeds than servo press machines. This can be particularly advantageous for large-scale operations where every second of production matters. The continuous & rapid cycles of a mechanical press ensure a high output making them an ideal choice for repetitive high-volume production tasks. Reliability & Durability Mechanical Presses offer unmatched robustness & dependability. They are constructed with technology that has been proven and refined over decades. Their sturdy construction helps reduce unexpected breakdowns and maintenance leading to continual operation and minimized downtime. Power These press models are known for the power that they can provide to a given operation. Mechanical presses can produce extreme amounts of force which makes them suitable for heavy-duty tasks and applications that use thicker more resistant materials, or processes with significant material deformation like deep drawing. Cost Effectiveness When looking at costs mechanical presses often have an advantage over servo press machines. Mechanical options typically require less upfront investment, which can benefit businesses operating with budget constraints. Another area where these presses have an edge is when considering maintenance costs. Costs associated with maintenance are often more straightforward and inexpensive leading to a lower total cost of ownership. Limitations - Mechanical Presses Flexibility One of the primary limitations of mechanical presses is the reduced flexibility of the stroke length and profile. Unlike servo presses, which can adjust these parameters mechanical presses often have fixed stroke lengths and speeds. Energy Consumption Mechanical presses can be more energy-intensive. The flywheel, which is a key component in these machines, needs to continuously operate throughout the press cycle. This constant motion leads to a steady draw of power, which can result in higher energy consumption, especially in comparison to servo presses that use energy only when in motion. Noise Levels Noise is another factor to consider with mechanical presses. They tend to operate at higher noise levels due to the nature of their mechanical operations. This could require additional noise reduction measures in the workplace, such as sound enclosures or protective gear to ensure a safe work environment for operators. One way to counteract the limitations of a mechanical press is by utilizing the adjustable stroke technology that we incorporate into our presses. When an adjustable stroke is paired with a variable frequency drive you can expect servo-like flexibility with the speed, consistency, and simplicity of a mechanical press. Servo Press Technology What makes a servo press stand out in terms of press technology is its incorporation of servo motors, which distinguishes it from traditional mechanical presses. These machines leverage the control of servo motors to drive the press ram mechanism, offering a high degree of accuracy and flexibility. Unique for their programmability, servo presses allow users to control the slide position, speed, and pressure with precision. Their adaptability makes them suitable for complex and varied stamping tasks. Working Principle & Applications - Servo Presses At the heart of a servo press is the servo motor, which directly controls the press’s ram movement. Unlike mechanical presses that operate on a fixed cycle determined by the flywheel, a servo press can adjust its stroke and speed in real time based on the task at hand. This is made possible by software that controls the servo motor, allowing adjustments to be made on the fly This results in a highly adaptable press, which can be tailored to specific production requirements. Most of the applications that apply to a mechanical press can also be performed with a servo press. Advantages - Servo Presses Precision & Control Some of the standout aspects of servo press technology lie in the amount of precision and control that it provides users. Unlike a mechanical press which operates on a fixed cycle, a servo press has a highly programmable stroke profile. This allows the user to adjust the motion, speed, and position of the slide at any point in the stroke. Servo presses can pause or slow down during certain points in the stroke to ensure proper time for feeds or transfer systems to complete their function. This makes very intricate or complex forming processes much more viable in applications where gradual or variable force is needed to guarantee sufficient part quality. Energy Efficiency Servo press machines contribute to energy-efficient manufacturing thanks to the press only consuming power during the stamping process whereas with a mechanical press energy consumption is constant when the machine is powered on. Another way servo presses contribute to energy efficiency is by optimizing the stroke profile for specific jobs. Versatility Thanks to the programmability of the stroke profile the servo press can offer a great deal of versatility for metal stamping operations. They can adapt to different materials, thicknesses, and forming requirements without the need for physical or manual adjustments to the press. The versatility of the servo press makes it a quality choice for operations that tend to see a high mix of parts that vary in requirements. Reduced Set-Up Times With the right controls that offer tool/program storage capabilities, these presses can recall and adjust to the different programs that have been stored with ease. This helps drastically reduce setup and changeover times for operators which can be a huge factor for high-mix, low-volume stamping operations. Limitations - Servo Presses Initial Investment Due to the advanced controls, programmable features, and other components a servo-driven press comes at a much higher initial cost compared to traditional mechanical presses. This type of upfront capital requirement may serve as a barrier to entry for smaller operations, or those with limited budgets. Maintenance Since servo presses rely on sophisticated software and controls, this makes the maintenance of these machines more complex than that of their mechanical counterparts. The requirement of specialized knowledge for both the mechanical and software aspects necessitates a higher level of technical expertise. Operations may encounter increased maintenance costs from training their existing operators and personnel. These factors and the need for specialized diagnostics, updates, and system checks may lead to a higher total cost of ownership. Operator Training The complexity and programmability of these presses demand a higher level of operator training and understanding. Maintaining skilled personnel is essential to fully leveraging the capabilities, and maintaining efficiency. This can be challenging in times and areas where skilled labor is scarce or for companies that place less value on developing and educating their personnel. Reduced Operating Speeds Although servo presses offer unmatched control and programmability they operate at reduced speeds compared to mechanical presses. For operations that require high-speed stamping, a servo press may not serve as the best available option. Comparing Mechanical and Servo Presses Performance Mechanical presses lead the pack in terms of raw speed and simplicity, making them more suitable for high-volume job requirements. Servo presses, however, offer much more programmability and flexibility making them a great option for applications that require control and adaptability. Efficiency Servo presses are often more energy-efficient, as they consume power on demand as opposed to running continuously. This efficiency can lead to cost savings in the long term. Precision Servo-driven presses when utilized properly can provide exceptional precision in operation thanks to the control and programmability. Mechanical presses serve as a consistent option and precision can be determined by the quality and condition of the press. Flexibility Typically servo presses offer more flexibility, but for the tradeoff of less operational speeds. This makes them an ideal candidate for high-mix, low-to-mid-volume operations. Traditional mechanical presses tend to lack the flexibility to run multiple jobs optimally. This is one of the reasons the adjustable stroke feature is standard on a Sangiacomo press, so you can tune the stroke of the press to the application at hand which ensures efficient production. Also as mentioned earlier when you pair an adjustable stroke press with a variable speed option you can obtain similar flexibility to that of a servo press without giving up operational speed. Operational Implications Whether you are a seasoned metal stamper or a beginner looking to bring part production in-house it is important to know what will be required of your business to run a stamping operation successfully. This includes having skilled operators and maintenance personnel that can run the press and keep it running optimally, also you must invest time and money into ensuring that operators who run the press have the knowledge and skill to do so properly. This can be quite a challenge for those who are new to stamping, and servo presses present unique challenges in terms of programming the profile of the stroke. With mechanical presses the operation can be significantly simpler, so keep that in mind when considering your options for purchasing a press. If you are not going to be committed to investing in the proper support and training required to run the press you can run into significant issues down the road. The choice between mechanical and servo presses should be informed by the specific needs, operational requirements, and future objectives of your metal stamping operation. Mechanical presses, with their speed, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, are ideally suited for high-volume production tasks where the simplicity and robustness of the machine can translate into operational efficiency and reduced downtime. On the other hand, servo presses offer precision, control, and versatility, making them perfect for complex stamping applications. The decision should also consider the long-term operational implications, including the availability of skilled labor, maintenance requirements, and the total cost of ownership. Mechanical presses are generally simpler to operate and maintain, while servo presses require a higher level of skill and technical knowledge due to their sophisticated control systems. Therefore, investing in proper training and support is crucial regardless of the technology chosen to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential operational issues. Ultimately, the selection between a mechanical and servo press should align with your operational goals, technical capabilities, and the nature of the stamping tasks at hand. By carefully assessing these factors, manufacturers can choose the press technology that not only meets their current production needs but also positions them for future growth and adaptability in the evolving landscape of metal stamping. Need Help Finding the Right Press For Your Operation? If you or your business needs help finding the right press for your application give us a call or fill out a form, and a member of our team would be happy to pair you with the right metal stamping solutions. See the technical specifications of our C frame and straight-side press models and more by visiting our main website. Contact us today at 256-275-4701 or email us at info@sangiacomo-presses.com Get Started Today
Welcome to the final article in this blog series on Industry 4.0! In this series, we address unanswered questions and roadblocks surrounding the term and its implementation in factories or small job shops. We tackle the what, why, and how of Industry 4.0, and why it should matter to you. Our previous article discussed why data matters in Industry 4.0 and how to become Industry 4.0-ready. In this article, we'll finish the series by covering what data matters and 3 crucial factors to consider when implementing data-driven stamping. Full knowledge about every detail involved in a manufacturing process is ideal. But, collecting, storing, and processing a vast amount of data is challenging. Industry 4.0 is the vision where machines provide the data that can then be processed by computers which are capable of storing large amounts of data and performing complex computations in real-time. The efficacy of the data process algorithm depends on the completeness and accuracy of the data and the intelligence built into it. Industry 4.0 is ideal to be attained over time because it seems to be virtually open-ended. In relation to this, our goal is to provide a good starting point. Starting Point: 3 Crucial Factors to Consider Gathering, storing, organizing, and prioritizing data Many do not even know where to begin and suffer from information paralysis. It is impossible to anticipate all the requirements upfront. One must become comfortable to view the transformation as a journey, rather than perfect out of the box. It is okay, or even necessary, to organize and prioritize before gathering and storing information. It is paramount to question what information already exists, how it is stored, and how it is used. Why not start with data that is already available? Discoveries of the existence of information that no one is aware of are not uncommon. Remember that with Industry 4.0, computers can relay commands to machines to take corrective actions. Therefore, it is important to filter out data that is not relevant and prioritize the relevant information. Ask yourself, “What data or information is already available, easily retrievable, and easily communicated with stakeholders?” As far as a starting point for collecting data, some elementary data can be gathered and processed by simple means. The most basic data that should be part of any KPI metric is: Is the equipment in operating condition? If the answer is No: Questions that determine why it is not in operating condition, what needs to be done to restore operation, and when the equipment is back in service will be the governing path. If the answer is Yes: The next question would be: Is the equipment operating? If No – why not? If yes, is it producing good parts? These basic yes or no questions can be answered with simple means. However, the answers to the why questions are not so straightforward, and therefore cannot be further processed until a concise, binary reporting system exists. The accessibility and ease of distributing data If not existing in a raw format, data may be easily retrievable by running a report from an ERP system. The following questions can help uncover if there is an issue with the distribution or accessibility of information: Do the stakeholders know that the information exists? Do the stakeholders know how the information can benefit them? Do the stakeholders know where to find the information? Do the stakeholders work off the same information? Do the stakeholders have to provide information? Is the information accurate, complete, and reliable? Does the information need to be protected, and to what level? Is there accountability for the information provided, or its use? The use and misuse of information Information is power; hence, as soon as data is collected, one must consider its use and misuse. The importance of managing the storage, distribution, and access cannot be overstated! While Industry 4.0’s focus is on the use of information, it cannot ignore the threats that come with it. There is an entire security aspect to the data world. It may be costly and possibly dangerous to collect and manage information that will not lead to a decision or an action. However, it may be necessary to act pre-emptively by gathering data, even without immediate use, for the future. For example, some machine data may contain useful information, but no processing algorithm exists. Should the data drive the development of the algorithm (Bottom Up approach) or should the intelligence demand the necessary data (Top Down approach)? The current day affairs suggest that it is the combination of both approaches. Who's Best Positioned to Progress in the Digital Transformation? Companies that effectively aggregate and relay available information have already a culture of data-driven decision-making. These are well-positioned to progress in the digital transformation. Companies that don’t have this culture will fall further and further behind. Unfortunately, there are still too many companies that operate ad-hoc, or with an “always done it this way” mentality. Leaders of Industry 4.0 will be highly automated industries and factories. Here’s why. If you compare a highly automated factory containing lots of robots to one with very little or no automation, you may come to the following conclusions about the latter’s operators and production processes: Biased, subjective statements about data and production processes Limited memory and intelligence due to human limitations Need instructions Don’t follow instructions Cannot be controlled A huge reason highly automated industries and factories are best positioned to achieve Industry 4.0 is that they don’t have the roadblocks of human bias, human limitation, and process inefficiency. Essentially, highly automated factories with robots can do it better, faster, and more precisely than humans. Flexibility vs. Efficiency: Where Do You Fall? Aside from having the right mindset and possessing a culture of continuous improvement, there’s another force at play with data-driven stamping. This second force is more pragmatic: flexibility vs. efficiency. Ideally, you want your production processes to strike the perfect balance between flexibility and efficiency. In some industries and factories, this perfect balance exists, but for many of us, manufacturers lean toward one side of the scale. Automotive manufacturers are a great example. Their factories are highly automated and focused on high volume, low mix, and mass production consumables. They benefit from efficiency but lack the flexibility to pivot to other product lines. As Alastair Orchard, VP of SIEMENS puts it, “An automotive factory is incredibly efficient, but not flexible”. Unless they spend a fortune to build a factory that accommodates this flexibility and automation and pays off the investment with continual high product demand, Orchard’s statement still rings true. Aside from mass production automotive manufacturers, what about the typical stamper? Where do they fall? Many will fall into the third category: low volume/high mix, focused on capability + set-up, and with the advantage of specialized, customized fabrication. This means that they are more flexible than efficient. This also means that there’s less automation happening in their facilities. Since these stampers focus more on capability than meeting high production demands, they also have less incentive to collect data that will improve production efficiencies. Final Thoughts The benefits and importance of reliable and complete information have been previously discussed. Data can be used to observe trends and to compare actual performance with historical performance, or a benchmark. As previously observed, raw data is honest and true if the measuring system is reliable. This is in itself a huge advantage because humans communicate with biases and emotions. In the automation world, data gives you an edge over existing production systems. Once you understand the role, importance, and impact of data-driven stamping within the digital transformation of Industry 4.0, you can then start to implement it. We hope this series on Industry 4.0 provided a practical breakdown of how digital transformation applies to stampers. We also hope you gained helpful insight and answers to the question, “What is Industry 4.0 and why should it matter to you?” Please feel free to leave a comment below or reach out if you have any questions, thoughts, or ideas to add. We're always happy to chat with you! Sangiacomo Presses Americas is ready to help you optimize your stamping press operations with our adjustable stroke press. Learn more about our stamping presses by visiting our main website here. Still considering your options? Our helpful sales reps will gladly answer any questions or concerns you have. Contact us today at 256-275-4701 or email us at info@sangiacomo-presses.com.
Welcome to the second article in this blog series on Industry 4.0! In this series, we address unanswered questions and roadblocks surrounding the term and its implementation in factories or small job shops. We tackle the what, why, and how of Industry 4.0, and why it should matter to you. Our previous article discussed the basics of Industry 4.0 and the obstacles to embracing data-driven stamping operations. In this article, we’ll do a deep dive into the mechanisms of Industry 4.0 as they relate to the importance of data, the cyber-physical system (CPS), and how they relate to data-driven stamping operations. In short, we will cover why data matters in Industry 4.0 and how to become Industry 4.0-ready. Why Data Matters in Stamping Operations Have you ever experienced the frustration of being stopped at a red light with you and a line of cars, while there is virtually no cross traffic? Chances are you have, and you wish there were a better traffic light system to control traffic. What if traffic lights could go a step beyond timers and sensors to actually detect cars from afar and actually control them by accelerating and slowing them down, eliminating the need for traditional traffic lights altogether? How do traffic lights relate to Industry 4.0, you might ask? If Industry 4.0 is all about the exchange of data between the physical and cyber world to control a machine, then traffic lights serve as an excellent example of why data matters. Specifically, achieving a more efficient traffic light system starts with collecting the right data, understanding it, and knowing what to do with it. This same principle applies to data-driven stamping operations. Case in Point Regardless of industry, company size, and business, seasoned machine operators know much about the equipment they operate. They observe patterns, try different remedies to avoid nuisance faults, or find synergies to make their jobs easier. If asked, operators can articulate problems with the production process. However, this information resides within the operator and is subjective. For example, an operator may say that there are “dozens of misfeeds” when starting a new production batch. The operator may have an opinion about the cause, but may not be able to determine if the misfeeds are caused by the improper procedure, maintenance issues, or even a machine design flaw. Operators are typically not trained to question matters outside of their environment. Quite the opposite occurs-- they are often discouraged from doing so. Operators do not have the tools and expertise to make a compelling case to management, but data does. Below, let’s look at how would the statement of “experiencing dozens of misfeeds” in the example above might look, as expressed in a digital format: Batch 1 8:03:01 Batch start 8:03:03 Mis-feed 8:03:56 Run 8:04:01 Mis-feed 8:05:12 Run 8:10:38 Batch complete Batch 2 8:17:59 Batch start 8:20:05 Mis-feed 8:21:12 Run 8:24:26 Batch complete Aggregated in a table: Batch 1 2 Run Time 5:33 5:20 Number of Mis-feeds 2 1 Down Time Due to Mid-feeds 2:04 1:07 Total Time 7:37 6:27 The data reveals that the claim of experiencing misfeeds “dozens of times” is rather an expression of frustration, than an estimated count of occurrences. It's certainly not reflecting the number of misfeeds per batch. The data also shows that the misfeeds do not happen at the start of a batch only. Once a system records data, trends can be observed which may not be as obvious as the above. Suppose the same data was tracked in an identical production system, perhaps in a different part of the world, with the following results: Batch 1 2 Run Time 7:14 7:20 Number of Mis-feeds 0 0 Down Time Due to Mis-feeds 0 0 Total Time 7:14 7:20 Takeaways Data helps identify possible reasons for misfeeds. Looking at the total time for production would indicate that the two plants operate with comparable efficiencies. Since each plant is incentivized to achieve the highest efficiencies, you could conclude that the first plant is more efficient by producing two batches in 14 minutes and 4 seconds compared to the second plant with 14 minutes and 34 seconds. But the second plant has a more tightly controlled process which helps the workflow. Those gains could be far greater than the gain in the average cycle time of plant one. Data helps identify ways to increase stamping efficiencies. Variation at plant one is mainly caused by misfeeds. Running at the production speeds of plant one without misfeed would yield a 2-minute saving per batch, and increase efficiencies by 25% in both plants! The more data, the better. If you investigate the time between batches, the data reveals questions that ought to be asked. The timing from plant one shows over 7 minutes time gap between the end of batch one and the beginning of batch two. Does the second plant have the same time gap? What is the reason for this gap? To address the latter question, the data system would need to be expanded so that the gap can be explained. Then, compare it to a benchmark, similarly as was done in the above example. Hence, the more data, the better. The Role of Data in Stamping Operations Data plays an important role in data-driven stamping. But, it’s important to understand how it’s used just as much as why it’s used. The process and logic it takes to improve your stamping operations come, in part, from an important concept in Industry 4.0—the cyber-physical system (CPS). CPSs provide value creation (i.e. more efficient traffic lights) by using the cyber world to sense, recognize, and understand data from the physical machines in order to ultimately analyze, predict, optimize, plan, and autonomously control the machines and processes. Essentially, CPSs provide a way for physical machines and cyber networks to exchange bidirectional communication with each other and use raw data to be translated into value-creation insight and predictions for better and more efficient stamping operations in the factory. In a stamping factory, this process could look like this: While a press (physical world) is continuously running a job, the Manufacturing Execution System (MES) (cyber world) receives process data and status data from the press with each stroke. Ex of process data: order no., stroke rate, press force values, no. parts, stroke counter, etc. Ex of status data: operating status (engaged, disengaged), alarm, events, error data, etc. The MES uses this data to analyze, predict, optimize, plan, and control the press. During continuous press operation, run: The end result could be to autonomously adjust the process or predict when intervention is needed. During continuous press operation, stop: The end result could be service help or a new job set-up. The word “data” is used a lot here, but what type of data are we talking about exactly? In the next article titled “Industry 4.0: Data-Driven Stamping, Part 2”, we’ll cover what data matters and how to use it for value creation. We’ll also explain what kind of stampers are best positioned to achieve Industry 4.0. Sangiacomo Presses Americas is ready to help you optimize your stamping press operations with our adjustable stroke press. Learn more about our stamping presses by visiting our main website here. Still considering your options? Our helpful sales reps will gladly answer any questions or concerns you have. Contact us today at 256-275-4701 or email us at info@sangiacomo-presses.com.
Welcome to the first article in this blog series on Industry 4.0! In this series, we'll address unanswered questions and roadblocks surrounding the term and its implementation in factories or small job shops. We'll tackle the what, why, and how of Industry 4.0, and why it should matter to machine manufacturers and suppliers alike. By now, you’ve probably heard of the buzzword humming in your social media, conference rooms, and industry news outlets. You guessed it—“Industry 4.0”. Let's go over this term’s origin, why it’s relevant, and why this latest revolution has been challenging for some to embrace and implement. In this article titled Industry 4.0: Manufacturing Then vs. Now, we'll cover the following: What is Industry 4.0 and Why is it Relevant? Industry 4.0: Then vs. Now 4 Obstacles to Embracing Industry 4.0 Moving Forward with Industry 4.0 What is Industry 4.0 and Why is it Relevant? Interconnected devices are nowadays commonplace in households with phones, Smart TVs, security cameras, appliances, etc. Thanks to the quick adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) in these industries, the convenience of insight gained from these commonly interconnected devices is done with ease—at least to the common consumer’s eyes. However, if you take a closer look at Industry 4.0 adoption, you’ll see that it’s not so simple after all. When considering Industry 4.0 adoption, there are big differences between industries. This is especially true for the traditional manufacturing industry. For industrial machinery, the intricacies and risks of implementing two-way communication between machinery and computers are much more apparent. This is in part because our industry is historically characterized by lethargy, risk aversion, and resistance to change. This helps explain why the adoption of interconnectivity and the use of data has been slower in industry and between different industries. Notoriously, the adoption of Industry 4.0 in traditional manufacturing has been much slower than in modern technologies, such as additive manufacturing, and in logistics or healthcare. Industry 4.0: Then vs Now To understand more about the buzzword that’s gotten people talking, let’s go over how we got to Industry 4.0 over centuries of innovation: Industry 1.0 The first industrial revolution occurred in the mid to late 18th century, when much of the hand labor was replaced by mechanical devices. Industry 2.0 Near the end of the 19th century, electrification marked the second industrial revolution where mechanical devices were replaced by independently powered machines. Industry 3.0 The third industrial revolution started in the mid-20th century with the arrival of the programmable logic controller. Automation has radically transformed manufacturing ever since. Industry 4.0 The fourth and current industrial revolution grew out of an effort launched by the German government to promote the computerization of traditional manufacturing. The aim of the research was to realize a smart factory by connecting machines based on the Internet of Things (IoT). The term Industry 4.0 was publicly introduced at the 2011 Hannover Fair to indicate that the use of machine data would radically transform manufacturing like the previous three industrial revolutions. 4 Obstacles to Embracing Industry 4.0 Small-size and even mid-size companies are cautious or struggle with implementing Industry 4.0. Here are four possible obstacles to embracing Industry 4.0: Lack of clarity. Companies lack clarity on how to transition to a digital data-driven manufacturing process. In addition, over 850 terms and acronyms are now associated with Industry 4.0 (Fachlexikon MES & Industry 4.0, L. Schleupner, MES D.A.CH Verband e. V). Depending on the industry, equipment manufacturers are equally slow in investing in the technology until it is clear that efforts will help their bottom line or until they're forced to do more. Currently, most of the equipment can be connected to a network which makes them Industry 4.0 ready, but that in itself is useless without software for data exchange. No established software platform. Without a clear winner, the adoption of a software standard stalls until an established software platform is apparent. Remember in the 1980s when consumers delayed video cassette purchases until there was a declared winner between the VHS (Sony) and Beta Max (Toshiba) formats? Decades later, a similar battle ensued between the HD DVD and Blue Ray formats. A similar situation is at hand here with the adoption of I4.0. Security and financial risks. Data exchange software and networked machines require proper security and network maintenance to prevent havoc caused by hackers, automatic updates, malware, and outages. Most companies cannot handle such an IT burden. Reluctant company culture and management. Many factors are at play here, but risk-aversion in company culture and management is one reason that some companies are not willing to embrace a revolutionary change or let data speak. On one hand, it may be due to an inherent resistance to change, or fear about what the data may reveal. In most cases, though, it's an uncomfortable truth that keeps them from embracing change. However, that is exactly the fundamental driver of Industry 4.0— the removal of human biases and limitations such as egos, forgetfulness, stubbornness, etc., and personal politicking. A blog by Pardhasaradhi Reddy Chelikam on the SAP website summarizes the obstacles of digital transformation as follows: High capital investment Business model adaptation Unclear ROI (Return on investment) Lack of adequate skill set to expedite the transformation towards I4.0 functionalities IT security issues (Letting critical process networks open) Reliability/stability of communications between machine-to-machine/user interfaces Reluctance to change management IT system outages/failures that would cause huge re-investment Moving Forward with Industry 4.0 The most common obstacle verbalized is that business is too hot and the human resources are too few. This means that still, so many have not even invested enough to arrive at the above-cited objections. But this trend is changing, as Tim Heston noted in the December 2022 issue of the Fabricator. The focus is shifting from capacity and capability, towards reliability and efficiency. So, we’ve gone over the background, history, importance, and obstacles of Industry 4.0. But how do you overcome those obstacles to embrace the idea of a smart factory? It starts with examining what’s within your reach and control. In the next segments of this blog series, we’ll cover why data matters in Industry 4.0, and what kind of data to start tracking. Stay tuned and subscribe to our blog for more on this. Sangiacomo Presses Americas is ready to help you optimize your stamping press operations with our adjustable stroke press. Learn more about our stamping presses by visiting our main website here. Still considering your options? Our helpful sales reps will gladly answer any questions or concerns you have. Contact us today at 256-275-4701 or email us at info@sangiacomo-presses.com.
Suppose you’re anything like McLoone Metal Graphics. In that case, you’ve probably experienced the same problem when shopping for a smaller press: finding a stamping press supplier who will work with what you have and customize a press to your specific needs. McLoone Metal Graphics Story: Stamping Solutions at any Production Volume Matt Dearman–Tooling, Maintenance, and Engineering Manager of McLoone– shares his insight on how Sangiacomo Presses Americas catered to their small press needs and capabilities as a facility doing a lot of small volume jobs to produce product IDs. McLoone purchased three 30-ton C-frame Sangiacomo punch presses in late 2018 to use in their process of manufacturing metal nameplates. This adjustable stroke press is well suited for applications with higher production speeds for increased productivity, like blanking and stamping. The T-30CE press features the following, plus standard features not listed here: 13.78-inch max die height (table to ram distance) 80-200 strokes per minute 0.31-2.99 inches adjustable stroke length 2.36-inch ram adjustment (slide adjustment) 300 kN max capacity Additionally, McLoone recently installed their fourth Sangiacomo press—a 50-ton adjustable stroke press. For technical details on this press and the 30-ton press, download our C-frame product brochure here. The Dilemma It was time for McLoone to replace their old 22-ton gap frame presses, but other press suppliers weren’t offering the needed solutions. Specifically, they needed new presses compatible with the library of 10,000 dies they’ve used since the ’60s. This meant that they needed smaller presses with clearances compatible with the dies. If you’ve ever been in McLoone’s shoes, you know what this implies. They had to seek out smaller, niche suppliers of smaller ton presses willing to sell you only what you need and nothing you don’t. Matt explains, “A lot of press manufacturers want to sell you a 200-ton straight-side press. So, the market for a smaller gap frame press is a bit more laser-focused. I guess there are just not as many companies that even want to get into that business. That said, there are still some niche manufacturers out there. We considered a few of them, but again– we're looking at the size of the actual press itself, the compatibility to what we had, the speed of the press, the ease of setup, and the changeover time.” The Solution Matt continues, “As I said, there's not a ton of manufacturers out there that are selling new, smaller presses, so we chose Sangiacomo because of their willingness to build a machine that was close to what we wanted. It was also nice working directly with the manufacturer in Italy. We made some modifications to the presses, so it wasn't just off of the assembly line. The shank-sized pole was different from what you typically have, and we had custom poles in the bolster plates and bolster plate thicknesses. So, by being willing to work with us instead of selling what they make, they provided us a machine that we could use.” Better Changeovers and Feed System Integration Aside from the initial impression of working with Sangiacomo, Matt highlights the ease of changeovers and feed system integration with a Sangiacomo adjustable stroke press: “We do a lot of smaller volume runs, meaning we have orders for 500 pieces. We might change a die in and out of a punch press three times in an 8 to 10-hour shift so that changeover time is important to us. We don't want to spend two hours changing a die over. With Sangiacomo, our changeovers usually only take 15 to 20 minutes. We have a good system down for SMED, and we try to keep our changeover times down with the flexibility of the guarding and everything else”, Matt says. Regarding the feed system integration, Matt adds, “We use a specific feed system that allows a tight register between the printing and the cutting for our nameplates. Since the feed manufacturer also uses Sangiacomo presses in building integrated systems that they sell, we knew that it would adapt very well and enable us to wire the feed into the control of the press and have the needed handshake of the feed and the press. In our industry, we don’t just stamp raw aluminum–it’s mostly all screen printed to suit our customers’ designs, logos, and artwork. Because of this, we have to maintain a tolerance of 10 thousandths of an inch between the printing and the cutting. So, it has to be right there– regular pneumatic feeds just don't work for our industry.” To summarize McLoone’s experience with the initial design and use of their adjustable stroke presses from Sangiacomo, Matt concludes, “We had to have something that was going to work with our feeds at the right speed with safety. Those are our biggest three criteria, but with the price and, again–the adaptability and willingness to work with us to build the size of presses that we needed rather than what you sold– was a big decision maker.” To learn why Sangiacomo Presses Americas offers some of the best stamping presses, check out other timesaving and productivity-increasing advantages of an adjustable stroke press here. Related Pages: C-Frame Presses About McLoone Metal Graphics McLoone is a product identification manufacturer in La Crosse, WI. They specialize in ID plates, custom nameplates, labels, and graphic overlays for commercial and industrial applications in nearly every industry. To learn more, visit their website here. McLoone Metal Graphics 75 Sumner St La Crosse, WI 54603 Phone: 800-624-6641 Email: info@mcloone.com
As discussed in our previous article about the relationship between downtime and repair costs, there's also a relationship between tool life and impact velocity when a press is in action. Let's discuss how to get longer tool life with an adjustable stroke press. You probably already know that tool maintenance can be expensive. There are preventative technologies out there that are worth investing in to protect and maintain the longevity of your tools. One of these preventative technologies is an adjustable stroke press. How does an adjustable stroke press increase tool life? Recall that an adjustable stroke press uses shorter strokes. This inherently reduces the velocity at the point where the die punches make contact with the material. Similar to a person going down a short slide, the impact of a person hitting the ground at the end of the slide will be much less than when going down a long slide. This is because velocity has a chance to build up, resulting in a higher impact upon contact with the ground. The more this person goes down the long slide with faster velocity, the quicker their body will begin the ache from the repeated impact with the ground. So, when the stroke length on an adjustable stroke press is reduced, the impact velocity is also reduced, resulting in less wear and tear to your tools and dies over time. Want to see a technical illustration of ram velocity on an adjustable stroke press vs. a fixed stroke press? Check out our other article here. Contact us today to learn more about our adjustable stroke press technology and discuss your stamping needs.
There are many ways you can extend the life of your press through preventative maintenance, but we won't be covering that today. What we will be covering is one way to extend press life through adjustable stroke press technology. An adjustable stroke press has variable stroke length built into the machine. With a manual 15 minute stroke change, the press can do different types of forming all on the same press-- stamping, blanking, coining, and deep drawing. They key concept here is that only an adjustable stoke press allows you to do this and not worry about damaging the press frame from misuse. Breakdown of longer press life with an adjustable stroke press Consider all that goes on inside a press while it's running: Repeated ram movements, tools making contact with the material being formed, and other dynamic forces. These forces can become harmful and damaging to the press frame and drive system. However, when stroke length is reduced to the shortest stroke possible, you reduce those harmful forces and increase the life of the press. In a previous article, we used this graph to illustrate the effect of ram velocity on throughput, but it can also be used to explain longer tool life with an adjustable stroke press: This graph compares the impact velocity of a long stroke (40 mm) and a short stroke (20 mm) during a full ram rotation, at 50 strokes per minute. At 90 degrees, the ram velocity curve of the 20 mm stroke (yellow) is 5 inch/s faster than the 40 mm stroke (orange). Though this difference may seem small, when you consider the unnecessary ram movement from the longer stroke (40 mm), that 5 inch/s difference from the shorter stroke (20 mm) has a significant effect on press life. Therefore, by using a shorter stroke that's achievable with an adjustable stroke press, it's possible to reduce stress to press frame and drive system overtime. Want to learn more? Contact a sales representative today to talk technical specs of our adjustable stroke presses.
Every penny matters whether you're a high-volume production facility or a small metal forming shop, which is why we often hear one common question: what makes an adjustable stroke press worth the investment? There is a close relationship between downtime, machine utilization, and costs; when your press is down, or it isn't optimal for the job it is running the costs can become significant. It is worth every company's effort to track and measure maintenance, repair, and downtime costs to evaluate whether new machinery is worth the investment. If you're in search of a new stamping press that can reduce downtime and boost your return on investment an adjustable stroke press is worth considering. How can an Adjustable Stroke Press Boost Operational Efficiency? To illustrate the value of investing in more efficient presses, let's go through an ROI example using real customer data from a study conducted by Sangiacomo Presses Americas in 2019. A customer was using two 25-year-old presses 50% of the time each. They replaced them with one adjustable stroke press machine. They could now use one machine 100% of the time instead of two machines 50% of the time. An adjustable stroke press is suitable for multiple types of metal forming because the stroke length can be adjusted to allow for varying tools and applications. Because of this, the customer was able to get rid of their old presses and just use one press machine at 100%. Objective 1: What are the savings during the first two years? Objective 2: What is the machine's ROI in savings? Assuming machine replacement every ten years $80k adjustable stroke press over two years: 1 press every 10 years: 2 x 80,000/10 = $16,000 Opportunity costs, better floor space utilization: 24 months x $600 = $14,000 Tool Maintenance, est. 1 service/year: 2 x $2500 = $5,000 Repair costs, est. 1 incident/year: 2 x $1000 = $2,000 Lost shift due to component failure, est. 1/year: 2 x $1000 = $2,000 Maintenance cost, est. 1 shift/year: 2 x $1000 = $2,000 Total savings over two years on a press that costs $80,000: $41,400 What Does This Mean for You? By replacing their old stamping presses with an adjustable stroke press, the customer was able to compensate for the $80k upfront cost in 4 years, leaving six years or more of positive ROI excluding regular maintenance calls. With modestly complex tooling and one shift per day, this is the ROI-improving performance we typically see with our customers: 10-25% higher production rates 20-30% longer die life 10-30% reduction in downtime Questions to ask yourself when assessing the ROI of an adjustable stroke press * These final numbers were used in the above ROI example using real customer data 1. The Cost of Non-Production Evaluate the impact of underutilization on your metal stamping operation’s efficiency. An adjustable stroke press, serving as a flexible and adaptable solution, can significantly free up valuable floor space for additional revenue-generating activities, effectively enhancing your stamping operation's overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). ROI Example: 10' x 20’ sq ft and machine utilized 50% more Floor space: $6/sq ft per month 200 sq ft x 6 = $1200 50% x $1200 = $600* $600 savings from better floor space utilization 2. The Impact of Tool Life and Maintenance Expenses By using the shortest possible stroke for a given stamping job with an adjustable stroke press, the impact velocity is decreased, thereby reducing wear and tear on the tool and increasing its life up to 50%. ROI Example: Doubling the tool life of a midsized tool and die that costs $5,000 to repair 50% x $5000 = $2,500* $2,500 savings in tool maintenance per tool 3. Repair Costs and Downtime Reduction One premature failure of a mechanical/electrical component can amount to around $1000 in repair costs per incident. Sangiacomo Presses incorporates commercially available electrical components into all their presses. Making part procurement much more streamlined which equals less machine downtime and hoops to jump through when ordering replacement parts. Strategic Stamping Insights With its flexibility, efficiency gains, and ROI, the adjustable stroke press is a step toward optimizing your manufacturing process. By choosing an adjustable stroke press vs a fixed stroke press, you're not just keeping pace with industry advancements but setting the stage for future growth, innovation, and competitiveness. Ready to improve ROI and optimize your metal forming operations with an adjustable stroke press? Contact us today to get an ROI assessment or a quote.
In a previous article, we explained why the shortest stroke is optimal for efficient stamping operations. Now, let's explain how shorter strokes using an adjustable stroke press enable more parts produced per minute and provide an advantage to high-volume stamping facilities. Most presses in our competitive market are fixed-stroke, meaning that they can only operate at one stroke length. Not only does this limit press operators in the type of forming they do on a single press, but it also has the potential to waste a lot of machine productivity. The solution to this problem is found with adjustable stroke length. Remember that with high-speed stamping, the optimal stroke is the shortest stroke possible. This is because the ram has less distance to travel, and therefore, the velocity is faster. With less unnecessary ram movement comes the advantage of higher speeds, resulting in more parts produced per minute. Let's illustrate this below: This figure compares the ram velocity of a 40 mm stroke (orange) and a 20 mm stroke (yellow) during a full rotation, at 50 strokes per minute. As can be seen in the graph, the ram velocity curve of the 40 mm stroke at 90 degrees is 10 inch/s, while the 20 mm stroke's ram velocity is 5 inch/s. The 5 inch/s difference between the two stroke lengths has a positive effect on throughput. With the 20 mm stroke length comes faster ram velocity, causing better use of energy. This example shows that you can increase throughput with an adjustable stroke press by using shorter strokes. We hope this short article helped you understand the important dynamic between adjustable stroke length and an increase in throughput. If you'd like to learn more about adjustable stroke press technology, check out this page. Interested in a Sangiacomo adjustable stroke press? Contact us to request a quote.