Fresh Pressed: What Are Hydraulic Presses Used For?

In 1795, a man named Joseph Bramah was credited with the invention of the first hydraulic press. Bramah’s creation would revolutionize the manufacturing industry.

If you work in the manufacturing industry, chances are high you’ve come across hydraulic presses. These simple machines help in a diverse set of applications. Despite being simple, these presses possess incredible strength.

But how do hydraulic presses work? What are they used for? Continue reading to learn the answers to these questions.

How Do Hydraulic Presses Work?

A hydraulic press uses all the basic components of a hydraulic system. Primarily, this includes a cylinder, pistons, and hydraulic pipes.

To perform its job, a piston exerts pressure, so fluid compresses and flows through a pipe. This pipe leads the fluid (usually oil) into a larger cylinder. Through exerted pressure, the fluid flows back into the original cylinder. 

As the internal components move, one or more large plates are moved externally. These exert an incredible force that allows them to crush or flatten even the hardest of materials. The strength of hydraulic presses varies based on their sizes. 

Hydraulic presses work alongside other types of manufacturing equipment. You can learn more here about the varying types of manufacturing equipment used to create a variety of essential parts. 

Making Sheet Metal   

A hydraulic press flattens different materials into pieces of sheet metal. The size and strength of the presses used in sheet metal production vary according to the type of metal.

Metal Recycling   

The metal recycling industry uses hydraulic presses to crush even the largest pieces of metal. Not only are these presses used to compact smaller metal together into blocks, but also to crush cars.

Creating Swords   

When swords are manufactured, a hydraulic press flattens raw steel into a flat piece that comprises the blade. The blade is usually sharpened and shaped further by hand. 

Electrical Equipment Manufacturing   

Many of the electrical equipment used during installations is manufactured using a hydraulic press. Electrical housings, switches, and even thermostats make use of these presses. 

Creating Car Parts

Many essential car parts are created using a hydraulic press. Clutches, windshield wiper blades, and fuel injection sensors are common examples. Gear and bearing assemblies are also created using a hydraulic press.

Creating Aircraft Parts

Many aircraft parts are created using a hydraulic press, in much the same way as car parts are. The primary difference is that aircraft parts are generally larger than those made for cars and require presses to exert additional pressure.   

Do You Have More Questions About Hydraulic Presses and Their Uses?

Hydraulic presses are created using large plates and essential hydraulic system components. These various machines are used in the creation of many parts and items.

Do you have more questions about hydraulic presses and their uses?

Check out our other blog posts. You’ll find a wealth of information on related topics that’ll help you delve deeper into the subject.