Control of ram operation in shaping and die forging presses

954,001. Metal working presses. H. J. FUCHS. Feb. 26, 1963, No. 7734/63. Heading B3H. A shaping or forging press has its stroke measured by means of the change in the back pressure of a pneumatic fluid issuing from an orifice 5 into the changing gap between the dies 1, 6. Compressed air is supplied to the orifice 5 in the fixed die 1, through pipe 4 containing pressure gauge 7 and reducing valve 8. The gauge 7 may operate a contact 9 controlling a lamp 10 to indicate when the desired pressure and hence the correct gap distance, has been reached. This pressure may also be indicated on a visual recorder 12. Automatic reversal of the press, which is preferably operated hydraulically, may also be effected when the desired pressure is reached. Alternatively the orifice may be provided in the upper die.