Heliyon (Sep 2020)
Steel work design and analysis of a 40-ton constant temperature hydraulic press
Abstract
This study presented the analyses of the design and construction of a motorized 40-ton constant temperature hydraulic press, for constant temperature compression purposes of fibre matrices. Standard design considerations and calculations were done to ensure the selection of effective and efficient components for the development of the machine. The construction of the machine involved standard manufacturing processes which involved marking out, cutting, drilling, machining and welding processes. The design was motorized for the purpose of increasing mechanical advantage as against hand-powered press. Design analyses were carried out to facilitate accurate dimensioning of the various parts of the hydraulic press. For adequate spring selection, the spring analysis of the system was also done. On testing of the finished device, no sign of leakages and system failure were observed. The effect of press time, temperature and pressure on the density of test samples, during a manufacturing process using the developed machine showed good working condition on both the compression and heating processes of the machine.