Categories: Projects and equipment
Word count/read time: 356 words; 1-1/2 minutes
So many tools, so many tools! There are tools for everything.
A quick look at any commercial or large-scale manufacturing process provides
insight into better ways to do specific tasks. Sometimes
hobbyists use the same ones albeit without steroids.
A recent project involves making a 20t tabletop hydraulic press dedicated to jewelry.
My current 20t shop-size press could be modified but it's not its life calling
so I purchased a new one instead.
A quick internet search reveals a litany of pricey (industry-specific) ones
but they're not within my budget. Self-reliancy will save a thousand dollars or more.
Exactly how much labor is unknown but it won't be quick.
I expect to tweak any Harbor Freight tool, in this case
a crooked crossbeam to start with. During manufacturing there are jigs and fixtures to ensure its alignment
so it was a bad day at the factory.
Getting it fixed took more than ten hours in phone calls
and re-re-assembly. They blew it big time!
Fortunately I have access to a machine shop to ensure things are made precisely.
There won't be any need for welding during the frankensteinification
but I might melt a bead or two
just the same. Lots of cutting, drilling, modifying, and a bevy of upgrades
should get it done.
An air-powered jack will make it faster and more efficient than the hand pump.
The long-term financial benefit means the investment will quickly pay off the
more it's used. And I intend to use the bejesus out of it!
The known possibilities
of what it can/could do are endless including some incredible 3D forming.
More secrets and tricks will reveal themselves in due time.
A little innovation keeps the mind sharp, too, which will be necessary
for this tool. I want it to accommodate
accessories and fixtures from other companies. No need to reinvent
the wheel if it can be avoided.
Then again, I'm inclined to scrap the original plans and build one from scratch.
It may take more time but it would eliminate many unknowns and free up
any constraints associated with modifying something else.
It's often easier to build it fresh.
Posted by M: June 26, 2024
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2024
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Nope! That's Not Green
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