Hydraulic Die Forming Discussion Group

Dar Shelton
sheltech@yahoo.com

>As far as using the press goes, this tool is capable of generating massive forces, and I was hoping there would be some instructions as to how much pressure to apply, etc. From the look of it, you are expected to buy additional books or take classes to do anything without learning it on your own, or the hard way. I have Cynthia's safety sheet, which is good, but is really just common sense rules for normal operation. Given the price of this little gem, I would expect at least a small manual with some do's and don't's, just so no one gets hurt right out of the chute. If that doesn't exist, which book that Rio sells is the one I need to start using this press?

>I am in the process of building a frame for this press which will hold everything and also provide protection to the operator while using it. When I get it finished, I'll make plans and parts lists available.

There is a book on deep drawing by Phil Poirier and Susan Kingsley's  book about press work for jeweleres and metalsmiths.
Between the two of those you'll be able to  figure out most of what you need to know. You bring up an important issue for people starting out with press work from ground zero. Basic knowledge of hydraulic systems and press applications is relatively new to the jewelry industry as far as small scale individual use , so it's not like it is with , say soldering, where you can find  loads of information easily. I'm reminded of when I started out with the RT Blanking system (that fateful day so long ago ) , and being underwhelmed with the depth of the original instruction booklet.
Back when I had spare time I had actually set about writing about pancake die making , but that is on hold indefinitely . Maybe I can guilt myself into doing that someday.

DS