ABSTRACT
Metal forming is one of the main pillars of manufacturing engineering, through which desired parts are shaped via mechanical plastic deformation. Metal forming embodies several processes that require the application of varying levels of loads and stresses by use of substantial, generally expensive machinery. Metal forming presses are the machine tools that cause permanent deformation to metals while transforming the part into a functional product. Presses are grouped according to their working mechanism as hydraulic, mechanical or pneumatic; and according to their control strategy as conventional or servo type. In order to apply the desired load for a specific period of time and to have significant control over the application and dwelling durations, the structural mechanism utilised such as knuckle-joint or screw types and the drive system chosen such as servo motor play a vital role.
This chapter summarizes the state-of-the-art of metal forming presses with an emphasis on the contemporary servo types. Technology, structure and mechanisms of the presses are reviewed. Important design and manufacturing aspects in the context of metal forming presses are discussed in light of functional reverse engineering.
