Modern engineering methods are necessary for producing some of the worlds most cutting edge technology and equipment. Maritime, aviation, shipping and space exploration are just a few industries that cannot do without large scale hydraulics.
Large scale, specialist technologies requires specialist equipment to produce. With more equipment using high strength titanium alloys than before, specialist high-pressure presses were required to meet this demand. We take a look at some of the most ambitious presses across the world.
Shultz Steel Press – California, USA
Weighing 2,650 tonnes and standing more than 60ft tall, this enormous forging press is used by Shultz Steel, a steel company operating for more than 50 years which manufactures parts for commercial and military aircraft, submarines, rockets and missiles. Part of a £47million expansion, the goliath press cost almost half of the entire budget. It’s Capable of 40,000 tonnes of force, to put that into perspective, it takes less than 150 tonnes of force to crush a car.
China
Currently, the reigning heavyweight champion is a hydraulic press created by China, which was first operational in 2013. As tall as a 10-story building and an incredible 80,000 tonnes of pressing power, it cost the equivalent of £204.7 million in Chinese Yuan. Though it is currently the largest press in terms of size and pressing power, the machine has been kept confidential by the Chinese authorities. After being delayed for decades, it is a response to a growth in China’s aviation industry, as it will be mainly be used to produce large aircraft.
SPKA 22,400N
Built by SMS Eumuco, the worlds largest hydraulic screw press resides in Kapfenberg, Austria. Capable of a blow force of 35,500 metric tonnes of energy, the press was installed in an effort to increase capacity at the companies factory. It stands 17m high and weighs more than 5,000 metric tonnes. Its creation consisted of casting nearly 600 metric tonnes of liquid steel in giant moulds, which were left to cool for several days before being heat-treated and cleaned.
HP Hydraulics: Reliable UK Hydraulic & Lifting Services
We like to stay up to date with the latest in the hydraulic industry and are fascinated by the most cutting edge technology used in manufacturing. We are always happy to provide the hydraulic support and maintenance needed for building projects of all sizes. Get in touch with our friendly team if you require the services of experts with your hydraulic and lifting project.