Types of Presses Used in Stamping: A Guide for Manufacturers

Metal stamping is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing, used to produce everything from automotive parts to appliance components. At the heart of this process is the stamping press—a machine that forms, cuts, or shapes sheet metal using dies and applied force.

But not all presses are the same. Different stamping applications require different types of presses, each with unique features, capabilities, and advantages.

In this article, we’ll explore the most common types of presses used in stamping, their typical uses, and how to choose the right one for your production needs.

1. Mechanical Press

Mechanical stamping presses are powered by a motor, flywheel, and crankshaft system that converts rotary motion into vertical force.

Best for:

• High-speed production
• Blanking, punching, and shallow forming

Key Features:

• Fast cycle times (up to 1,000+ strokes per minute)
• High repeatability and efficiency
• Cost-effective for high-volume runs

Common Applications: Automotive stampings, washers, brackets, and electrical components

Common Mechanical Stamping Press Brands: Aida, Bliss, Clearing, Niagara, Danly, Erfurt, Fagor, Komatsu, Schuler, SEYI, Minster, Sutherland, Erie, Amada, Verson, Brown & Boggs, Stamtec, Simpac, Mueller Weingarten, Heim

Galaxie Corporation offers a wide variety of used mechanical stamping presses for sale. View our inventory page to view our current presses for sale.

2. Hydraulic Press

Hydraulic presses use fluid pressure to move the ram. Unlike mechanical presses, hydraulic presses offer full tonnage throughout the stroke and greater control over force and speed.

 Best for:

• Deep drawing
• Complex or variable forming operations

 Key Features:

• Programmable stroke and pressure
• Overload protection built-in
• Capable of long dwell times at the bottom of the stroke

Common Applications: Kitchen sinks, oil pans, enclosures, aerospace components

Common Hydraulic Stamping Press Brands: Beckwood, Schuler, Fagor, Macrodyne, Greenerd, Verson, Pacific, Williams & White, Heim, Multipress, Dake

Galaxie Corporation offers a wide variety of used hydraulic stamping presses for sale. View our inventory page to view our current presses for sale.

3. Servo Press

Servo presses are driven by servo motors, allowing fully programmable motion. These presses combine the speed of mechanical systems with the flexibility of hydraulic systems.

Best for:

• Precision forming
• Mixed-material parts
• High-tech or high-spec applications

Key Features:

• Adjustable slide motion and stroke profile
• Energy-efficient
• Reduced noise and vibration

Common Applications: Automotive body panels, EV battery cases, fine-blanked parts

4. Pneumatic Press

Pneumatic presses use compressed air to drive the ram. They’re typically used for light-duty stamping tasks.

Best for:

• Small parts
• Low-force applications
• Short-run or prototype work

Key Features:

• Simple setup
• Fast and lightweight
• Cost-effective for basic tasks

Common Applications: Electronics, tags, labels, and light brackets

Frame Types: C-Frame vs. Straight-Side Presses

In addition to press type, frame structure also impacts performance and accessibility.

C-Frame Press

• Open on three sides for easy die access
• Compact and economical
• Best for light to medium applications

Straight-Side Press

• Fully enclosed frame for maximum rigidity
• Maintains alignment under heavy loads
• Ideal for large or precision stamping jobs

Choosing the Right Press

When selecting a stamping press, consider:

• Material type and thickness
• Part geometry and tolerances
• Production volume and speed
• Budget and long-term ROI

Each press type has strengths suited to specific tasks. Understanding your needs will help ensure the best fit for your stamping operation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right press for metal stamping can significantly impact your productivity, part quality, and operational efficiency. Whether you need the speed of a mechanical press, the flexibility of a hydraulic press, or the precision of a servo press, there’s a solution tailored to your application.

Contact us today for your stamping press needs.

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