Mechanical Press vs. Hydraulic Press: The Differences Explained

Are you curious about the differences between mechanical and hydraulic presses?

Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the working principles and applications of these two types of machines.

Whether you’re in the electronics industry or the automotive industry, understanding which press to use for your specific needs can save you time and money.

Join us as we dive into the world of press technology and discover the advantages of each type.

The working principle of the mechanical press?

The design principle of a mechanical press is to convert circular motion into linear motion. The flywheel, driven by the main motor, engages the clutch which drives the gear, crankshaft (or eccentric gear), and connecting rod to achieve linear motion of the slider. The motion from the main motor to the connecting rod is circular in nature.

The working principle of hydraulic presses

The hydraulic oil press (a type of hydraulic press machine) operates by using special hydraulic oil as the working medium and a hydraulic pump as the power source. The force of the pump drives the hydraulic oil into the cylinder/piston through the hydraulic pipeline. There are several sets of seals in the cylinder/piston, which are different in each location, but serve the same purpose of preventing hydraulic fluid from leaking. The hydraulic oil then circulates through the tank via a check valve, causing the cylinders/pistons to cycle and complete a specific mechanical action, resulting in productivity.

Now, let’s examine the differences between the mechanical press and hydraulic press.

Mechanical Press vs. Hydraulic Press

(1) Punch press applies rapid downward pressure with an inertia force, whereas hydraulic press exerts static pressure with a slower downward force. If a larger elongation is required, it’s better to use a hydraulic press.

(2) Punch presses have rigid speed control and cannot be adjusted, whereas hydraulic presses are equipped with stepless speed control and the pressure can be changed at any time, making it easier to control. The degree of deformation of the material is referred to as the amount of elongation. Possible cracking may occur during hydraulic press punching if the elongation is large.

(3) For small emblems or silver jewelry, an ordinary mechanical press is a better choice due to its low elongation pressure and high efficiency. On the other hand, products with large elongation, such as deeper pots and cups, are better suited for hydraulic presses. Punching machines are more suitable for blanking.

(4) Punch presses use mechanical transmission with a crank-slide structure, while hydraulic presses use hydraulic transmission.

(5) The most significant difference between the mechanical press and hydraulic press is that they are used for different purposes and are different types of process equipment. Punch presses are mainly used for sheet metal cutting, while hydraulic presses are mainly used for sheet metal forming.

Differences in application areas

Punching machines are commonly used in the stamping and forming of hardware parts for a wide range of industries, including electronics, communications, computers, household appliances, furniture, transportation (automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles), and more.

Hydraulic presses are widely used in the processing of auto parts and in various industries for shaping, punching, calibrating, shoemaking, handbag production, rubber molding, pressing of shaft and bushing parts, embossing, bending of sheet metal parts, stretching of sheaths, production of washing machines, electric motors, automotive motors, air conditioning motors, micro motors, servo motors, wheel manufacturing, shock absorbers, motorcycles, and machinery.

Final thoughts

These are the differences between hydraulic and mechanical presses. Both types of machines have their own advantages. It is my belief that as technology advances, the future of automation equipment will become increasingly intelligent.