gyrogami logo



Gyrogami Blog - Precious Metals, Jewelry, Artwork


Hydraulic Jewelry Press
Blog Index
   
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.

 
And I intend to use the bejesus out of it!
 
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


Please email any thoughts or comments regarding this post.

Previous Entry  . . . .  Next Entry


Comment Section

NOTE: Your comments will be included in this section as long as they aren't illegal. This section is censor-free so show me your intelligence or ignorance and everything in between!



2024

Jump Ring Stretcher, V2
 
Micromaille Cutter
 
Review: Drill Doctor 500
 
Full of Hot Air
 
Give Me a Price
 
What Would Aliens Do?
 
Hydraulic Jewelry Press
 
Kumihimo Chains
 
This Ring Will Fit
 
Bullion Bracelet
 
Ode to the Drawplate
 
Update Those Displays
 
Fly on the Wall
 
Greed Won Out
 
German Silver
 
Save It for Desert
 
Toeing the Line
 
Time for a Redo
 
USPS Is Broken
 
Not Enough Space
 
Jump Ring Stretcher
 
Nope! That's Not Green
 

2023


2022


2021


2020


2019


2018


2017


2016


2015


2014




divider

(c) 2024 Metals by Mark, all rights reserved