Page 22 - MetalForming August 2013
P. 22
New Deep-Draw Press
Drive Benefits Keep on Coming
Meggitt’s operators also benefit from a dramatic reduction in audible press noise, since pump speed is reduced for much of each press cycle. And, in addition to the pre-preventive maintenance features described above, a dramatic reduction in system pres- sure, facilitated by the drive, con- tributes to greatly extended compo- nent life.
“For example, forming a part required 1500 PSI during ram approach with a non-VFD-equpped press, while the actual value measured was only 90 PSI using the new press,” says Har- relson. “And where 1800 PSI was expected for a standard-system ram retraction, 380 PSI was witnessed with- in the VFD-controlled hydraulic press circuit.”
Finally, Beckwood’s system offered something of great importance to Meg- gitt, as it transitioned from its 1963 technology: Ultimate control over the press cycle. With a VFD that includes
I/O and programmability, machine operating parameters such as ram- approach speed, force, hold time and ram-retract speed can accurately be set and maintained for repeatability. “Cycle times have been improved by over-speeding the pump during unloaded portions of the operating sequence,” says Krochmal. “And by improving cycle time, throughput increases.”
Modern Press-Safety Systems
Last but not least, Beckwood outfit- ted the 500-ton press with a variety of redundant safeguards. As standard, the multiple-cylinder configuration includes redundant solenoids to con- trol hazardous ram motion. Parker safe- ty couplers provide hydraulic cylinder- to-ram attachment.
In addition to the baseline offer- ings, a ram safety catcher system (RSCS) provides secondary load hold- ing of the ram at any position through- out the stroke. The RSCS is powered to
the open position, allowing free travel of the ram in either direction. Upon a sudden loss of power, the ‘held-open’ RSCS immediately closes, preventing further movement of the ram at any point in the stroke.
The RSCS is managed by a Jokab Safety PLC, which monitors the per- formance of all safety valves, in addi- tion to the RSCS. And for perimeter guarding, light curtains protect the front and rear openings of the press and expanded metal guards protect side openings.
Summarizing his hopes and dreams for using the new hydraulic press, expected to fully enter production and take on Meggitt’s entire deep-drawn part family in November 2013, Krochmal says:
“This is not just a piece of equip- ment; it’s a complete forming solution.” MF
Article provided by Beckwood Press Co.: 636/343-4100; www.beckwood- press.com.
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20 MetalForming/August 2013
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