French engineered a TMP-style four-post, downacting 500 ton hydraulic press with controls and hydraulics designed specifically for forming metal aircraft parts. The custom press features a 60 x 144 inch work area, sized for large structural components.
The press bolster includes multiple tee slots for fast die changes, with extended brass bushings to ensure accurate press guiding under load. The hydraulic system features a self-contained power unit with an energy-efficient pump and motor combination that reduces operating costs, and the press met strict audible noise requirements in operation.
Engineered for Operator Safety
The press was designed with layered protective features: a safety device that prevents press closure in the event of hydraulic line failure, light curtain guards and expanded metal guarding around the press, and software that detects inadvertent press motion.
Base-Mounted Hydraulics for Unitized Shipping and Plant Flexibility
Because of the press's scale, the hydraulic unit and controls were mounted on a base plate, allowing unitized shipping and the flexibility to relocate the press within the customer's plant as production needs change.
The order was delivered turnkey: French handled shipping to the customer's facility, rigging, installation, utility contracting, startup, and training for the customer's press operators.
Explore Custom Platen Press Designs
Learn more about French platen press capabilities, including electrical, hot oil, and steam heating options, or view our 500 to 575 ton hydraulic press designs. French designs custom hydraulic presses from 20 to over 2,000 tons for aerospace, military, and defense applications.
Have a forming or molding challenge that doesn't fit a standard press?
French designs and builds custom hydraulic presses from 20 to over 2,000 tons, engineered around your part, your process, and your plant.
About TMP, A Division of French
TMP was acquired by The French Oil Mill Machinery Company in 2009 and is internationally recognized for building high-performance hydraulic presses and rubber mixers.