Presses are frequently compared by tonnage, yet two machines with a similar force rating can be very different to use. A suitable hydraulic workshop press must apply the required force and leave enough space for the part, tooling and handling method.
Establish the force for the operation
Start with the process rather than a guess at machine size. Installing a bush, straightening a fabrication and forming a bend place loads on different areas. Material, dimensions, interference fit and tooling all affect the force. If the force is unknown, obtain it from the component or tooling supplier, or discuss the application with a competent machinery specialist. Do not treat a machine’s maximum rating as a target for routine operation.
The Morgan Rushworth H-frame range includes machines intended for several different workshop tasks. The right rating is only one part of a complete specification.
Measure the work envelope
Write down the largest part in the position in which it will be pressed. Then add the tooling, supports and clearance needed to load it. Check four separate dimensions:
- Width between the uprights: can the component and its fixture pass into the frame?
- Daylight: is there enough vertical opening for the part, tooling and working travel?
- Bed area and adjustment: can the part be supported at the correct height?
- Ram stroke: can the ram complete the operation without losing a usable starting position?
Draw the setup as a side view. The press may have enough nominal daylight until a tall fixture and a drift are included. Likewise, adequate force is little use if a long assembly cannot be positioned under the pressing point.
Include handling and support
Heavy work may need lifting equipment, a second support or a fixture that stops the part from tipping. Check access around the press and how the completed component will be removed. Loading and unloading can dominate the cycle time even when the press stroke is short.
For the rest of the decision, read our hydraulic H-frame press buyer’s guide. Send Selmach the part drawing, tooling details and intended operation; that gives us much more to work with than a tonnage figure alone.
Published 30th September 2026