Base Plate Properties For Die Cutting Press

[ataslaki]

An automatic two-axis die cutting press uses a die board with steel knives to cut leather on a nylon board. Below the nylon board, which is usually 1/2" thick, is a base plate made of metal, usually 1/8" thick.

The head of the press usually works in the center portion of the press, exerting up to 20 tons of force, resulting in a bent nylon board, which is normal, and is required to be turned over at the end of every shift, to have a flat board. The cycle is repeated. However, the same bend is introduced in the metal base board as well, which bends in a matter of days and weeks. However, it is cumbersome to turn it over, and is not intended to.

What type of metal and properties should this metal base have, in order not to bend so easily? Is a hardened steel the answer? How about spring steel? And, can't go thicker than 1/8". Any advice?

 

[Goahead]

It would help to know which is the present material and what is its hardness. The press manufacturer may have hints on the solution of your problem. Harder steel may be tried but it may be also subject to fatigue failure unless it is shot peened on both sided to induce compressive stresses.

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[unclesyd]

I would look at the urethanes especially, RIM Urethane. RIM urethane would be an ideal candidate as it very resilient and somewhat self healing if deformed.
I think a call is warranted to the following companies.

http://www.creativeurethanes.com/index.html

http://www.formworksplastics.com/urethane.htm

 

[EdStainless]

I like the thought of urethane, it is very tough.

If you can't make the total stack any thicker you may need to make the urethane thinner and add to the metal.

You may also be stamping too deep. If you make the plate stronger you will need to shorten the stroke a bit.

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[Pressed]

If other material doesn't work, try to separate (cut) the current plate into pieces. The center piece cut just a bit larger than the load area, say 1/2". Then the load will be acting directly on the length that is needed for support. The plate will be in smaller peices (probably three) and easier to manage.

Other than those, try to bolt down the plate, if you can.

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