Making a shop press using a electric motor

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around designing a small shop press powered by an electric motor, specifically focusing on the mechanical conversion of circular motion to linear motion. Participants explore various mechanical actions suitable for achieving high pressure and discuss the feasibility of using an electric motor versus a hydraulic system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes a design for a shop press that is 18 inches tall with 6 inches of travel, capable of exerting 10,000 psi.
  • Another participant questions the choice of an electric motor over a hydraulic ram, suggesting that hydraulic systems are safer, more effective, and cost-efficient for generating high forces.
  • A suggestion is made to use a fine pitch lead screw combined with a high gear ratio to convert motion effectively, with the option of a ball screw for accuracy.
  • There is a mention of powering a hydraulic ram with an electric pump as a potential solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the best approach to creating the shop press, with some advocating for electric motor designs while others favor hydraulic systems. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal design choice.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not specified the area over which the 10,000 psi is to be applied, which is critical for calculating the total force required. There are also unresolved considerations regarding the rigidity of the proposed mechanical actions.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanical design, DIY projects, or those exploring alternatives to hydraulic systems for high-force applications may find this discussion relevant.

dylondylondylon
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I'd like to make a small shop press from an electric motor, say 18'' tall max, with 6" of travel. It should be able to press say 10,000 psi and hold for several second or even maybe indefinitely.

My question is two fold. First, what type of mechanical action would be best to turn circular motion to linear motion? A worm gear, toggle press, screw/servo, piston style press? Does it matter in terms of rigidity?

How would you design such a rig?
 
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10,000 psi over how large of an area? That tells you the total force you need to develop.

But the first design question is going to be, why do you want to use an electric motor instead of a hydraulic ram?

A hydraulic ram is far safer, a much more effective way of developing high forces in linear motion, and ridiculously inexpensive and durable. A 20 ton (10,000 psi across a 2"x2" area - a real brute by small shop standards) hydraulic press with 6" of travel might cost $200 ready to use, with most of the cost being the frame.
 
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dylondylondylon said:
I'd like to make a small shop press from an electric motor, say 18'' tall max, with 6" of travel. It should be able to press say 10,000 psi and hold for several second or even maybe indefinitely.

My question is two fold. First, what type of mechanical action would be best to turn circular motion to linear motion? A worm gear, toggle press, screw/servo, piston style press? Does it matter in terms of rigidity?

How would you design such a rig?
A fine pitch for lead screw combined with a high gear ratio driving the lead screw. You could use a ball screw if accuracy is needed.
 
Reminds me of this video:
 
Nugatory said:
But the first design question is going to be, why do you want to use an electric motor instead of a hydraulic ram?

Agree, the most effective method for developing high forces will be hydraulic. You could power the hydraulic ram using an electric pump if needed.
 

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