Mechanical servo press technology for metal forming

Recently several press builders developed gap and straight-sided metal forming presses that utilise the mechanical servo-drive technology. The mechanical servo-drive press offers the flexibility of a hydraulic press (infinite slide (ram) speed and position control, availability of press force at any slide position) with the speed, accuracy and reliability of a mechanical press. Servo drive presses have capabilities to improve process conditions and productivity in metal forming. This paper reviews the servo press designs, servo-motor and the related technologies, and introduces major applications in sheet metal forming and bulk metal forming.