Beckwood Press Company, a leading manufacturer of custom hydraulic presses, automation systems, and the Triform line of precision forming equipment, has partnered with aerospace parts supplier Cutting Dynamics to design and manufacture a 75-ton hydraulic press used to hot form titanium structural components.

Capable of temperatures up to 1600°F, the custom press uses electric cartridge heaters to provide even temperature distribution throughout the forming process, increasing the malleability of titanium and reducing springback. Utilizing nine zones of heat control in each platen, operators can maintain a constant platen temperature to within +/-5°F throughout the cycle. Additionally, automatic insulated door systems increase heat efficiency and maintain the desired temperature set points while facilitating easy part and tool loading.

This press also has capabilities for superplastic forming (SPF). Using a die infused with high-temperature argon gas, SPF presses are able to form high-strength materials into complex geometric shapes in a single operation.

Like all Beckwood presses, the structure is designed for Infinite Life using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The simulation software mirrors real-world manufacturing stresses to ensure the press is robust enough to handle the most taxing applications. Additionally, Beckwood's PressLinkTM remote support module offers fast, complimentary troubleshooting and facilitates program updates without the need for an on-site service visit.

“We are excited to be working with Beckwood on our hot form press,” said Bill Carson, President of Cutting Dynamics. “We have been very pleased with the Triform equipment we previously purchased from them and expect our new press to perform at the same high standard. It should greatly enhance our product offering and enable us to provide even more complex formed and assembled titanium components to our customer base.”