The machine part II

In this segment let us start with the square ness of the machine frame. By this we mean the frame that supports the clamp and carriage of our machine and holds all the components.  It is built square, but the question is was it installed square.

With our machine when we brought it into the factory or plant we installed it on feet and or a stand. In regards to the leveling pad (feet) these are self adjusting and mount via a threaded shaft to the frame of the machine. The underside usually has a rubber pad to stabilize the pad and keep it in place (non skid, also irregular floor). There are different sizes for the varying weight loads that will be placed on them.  This is important, and easily figured. When we look at the total weight of the machine and say the heaviest mold, it equates to a weight which is than divided by the number of support feet and thus you end up with a weight per foot.  If hydraulic please do not forget fluid weight, or what in some circles is called wet weight.

What now happens is that the machine is to be leveled, using precision levels and the adjustment of these feet. If in fact you talk with your machinery suppliers they may state that you need three levels at once to level the machine. The reason being is that you want to check all ways at the same time and not be moving the levels around. What we look at are the ways of the machines and between the ways or across the ways of the machine. When looking at the machine we can than determine that the ways for the platen are one point both in direction of movement and than between the platens. This last measurement is sometimes taken off the platen itself but you must be careful that it is a machined surface and not cast. We also need to look at the carriage area and use the machined surfaces here to aid in the level of the machine.

Given that on most machines we have 2 to 6 feet per side the adjustment can take a while and does involve a lot of time to get right. The reason for multiple levels at the same time is that when adjusting one area you may be affecting another and these multiple units allow a good sense of what is going on. The result of which is a level machine that now is ready to run. Understand that if not level the motions that we use in the press may torque the press and it components leading to excessive wear over time and undue stress possibly leading to a breakdown.

Other factors to consider in installing the machine in the plant or factory are:
1- floor strength, is it adequate
2- alignment to other machines
3- adequate spacing for ease of operation and maintenance
4- isolation for vibration (sometimes achieve in combination with feet)

Thanks much for the time. To be continued.

Steven L Silvey
Silveys’ Plastic Consulting
360-882-3183
peipai@aol.com