Advantages of Hydraulic Press Automation Systems

Are you searching for ways to increase production speeds, cut maintenance expenses or enhance machine efficiency? Hydraulic press automation systems can be beneficial. Let's examine some of their key advantages and how they can benefit your company.

SMG, a manufacturer of industrial products, needed to enhance their 175-ton press's automated features and functionalities in order to reduce cycle times and boost part consistency. KCC Software provided them with the solution.

Low Maintenance

Hydraulic press automation systems offer numerous benefits, but one that stands out is their low maintenance requirements. With proper upkeep, most presses only need an oil change every couple of years or so depending on usage.

High-grade oil that has been properly filtered and stored will help prevent the buildup of dirt and heat that can reduce the life of a machine. Make sure to check its level regularly, and maintain it at temperatures which won't damage its components.

In addition to regular maintenance, an effective automation system should provide quality checks to guarantee the press is running optimally. These tests help detect problems before they escalate into larger issues like hydraulic leaks or issues with the die that forms the part.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Hydraulic presses are a reliable choice for stamping manufacturers as they offer the power and precision needed to craft intricate parts. However, regular upkeep on valves, pumps, filters, seals and other machines is necessary in order to keep them running optimally.

Replacing old components with modern ones is an effective way to extend the lifespan of an older machine and cut maintenance costs. Furthermore, this will improve accuracy and repeatability in output from the press.

Recently, two hydraulic forming presses underwent a rebuild that featured automation features to reduce cycle times and boost production consistency. The system featured touch screen controls with recipe storage so operators could enter commands automatically.

The system also automated the reversing of direction step, which previously required a manual proximity switch. This made the press motion extremely consistent and ensured part uniformity while extending its lifespan.

Increased Productivity

Hydraulic presses are widely used in the production of parts for various industries. Automobile companies rely on them to craft body panels and other vehicle components.

They can also be employed in the production of household items like thermostat casings, light switches and appliance parts. Their smooth, accurate force creates longer tool life which ultimately saves money over time.

Hydraulic presses feature a straightforward design with few moving parts that are fully lubricated in pressurized oil. Breakdowns are rare but when they do happen, repairs tend to be minor and cost-effective. Common maintenance tasks include replacing packing, solenoid coils, and valves - which can easily be replaced without disassembling the machine, extending up-time while cutting costs of maintenance.

Reduced Downtime

One of the primary advantages of hydraulic press automation systems is their capacity to reduce downtime. This is because they automate repetitive tasks such as pressing, blanking and punching in order to boost production rates and enhance part quality.

Manually performing these processes can be slow and inefficient. On the other hand, programmable logic controllers (PLC) are capable of automating all these steps so parts are produced accurately every single time they're run.

One of the greatest difficulties a press can encounter is moving rapidly yet accurately. Multipress designed their system with three distinct speeds in mind, enabling it to accelerate at the start of each cycle then slow down as its ram approaches the work piece, guaranteeing parts were shaped consistently and extending press life.

Increased Safety

Hydraulic press automation systems when installed properly offer several benefits for your manufacturing processes. Most importantly, they keep both equipment and workers secure during operations.

Hydraulic press systems are incredibly powerful. Their closed circuit design enables them to generate immense pressure.

However, they can also become hazardous if the system is compromised due to contamination or other problems. This could result in internal fluid or gas escaping from the press, potentially damaging skin and other parts of the body.

To prevent injuries caused by hydraulic presses, they need to be regularly inspected and maintained. Furthermore, operators should receive adequate training and time for learning the appropriate safety protocols for these machines.