Link Drive vs. Eccentric Presses: A Comparative Guide

Mechanical presses play a crucial role in metal forming, and two common types are link drive presses and eccentric presses. While both are effective, they cater to different applications based on their motion characteristics and forming capabilities.

Link Drive Presses

How They Work

Link drive presses use an interconnected system of links to modify the slide's velocity profile. This allows for:

• Slower Drawing Speed – Reduces material stress and improves part quality.
• Faster Return Stroke – Enhances production efficiency.
• Dwell Time – Provides additional time at bottom dead center (BDC) for precise forming.

Applications

• Deep drawing (automotive panels, fuel tanks)
• Precision forming (appliance and aerospace components)
• Metal packaging (cans, containers)

Eccentric Presses

How They Work

Eccentric presses use an eccentric shaft to convert rotary motion into linear slide motion. This results in:

• Consistent Stroke Motion – Suitable for high-speed production.
• High Efficiency – Reliable and cost-effective for mass manufacturing.
• Uniform Slide Velocity – Well-suited for blanking and shallow forming.

Applications

• Blanking and punching
• High-speed shallow forming
• Standardized part production

Comparison Table

Feature	Link Drive Press	Eccentric Press
Slide Motion	Variable, customizable motion	Consistent sinusoidal motion
Speed	Slower during drawing, fast return	Faster overall speed
Complexity	More complex design and maintenance	Simple design, easier maintenance
Cost	Higher initial investment	Lower initial cost
Applications	Deep drawing, precision forming	Blanking, high-speed forming

Conclusion

Choosing between a link drive press and an eccentric press depends on your production needs:

• For high-speed production of simpler parts, an eccentric press is the better choice.
• For precision forming with controlled slide motion, a link drive press is more suitable.

Contact S&G Press & Machinery Sales

📍 Office: 13297 West Star, Shelby Twp, MI 48315

📍 Warehouse: 30930 Industrial Rd, Livonia, MI 48150

📞 Phone: 586-563-5000

📧 Email: contactus@presses.com

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