A 100 ton shop press unleashes a staggering 200,000 lb of controlled pressure. This level of force is built for rail-car axles, mining equipment rebuilds, large agricultural and construction machinery, and heavy fabrication tasks that dwarf the limits of 30 – 50 ton presses. Redline Stands selects fully welded, gusset-reinforced H-frames, oversized chromed rams, winch-or chain-assisted bed adjustment, and dual-speed air/hydraulic or electric/hydraulic pumps to keep cycle times reasonable. When the workpiece is huge, tight, or heat-sensitive, a 100 ton press delivers the muscle to get the job done safely and efficiently.

TYPICAL JOBS FOR A 100 TON PRESS

• Heavy-vehicle hubs and brake drums: remove and install components on Class 8 trucks, low-boys, and buses.
• Industrial bearings and bushings: service crusher shafts, large gearboxes, and conveyor drums.
• Track-equipment maintenance: press pins, bushings, and rollers on excavators, dozers, and crawler cranes.
• Rail & marine applications: re-seat axles, couplings, and prop-shaft fittings without cutting or flame-heating.
• Structural straightening: cold-work I-beams, H-pile, and heavy plate without inducing heat warping.
• Thick-plate forming: bend up to ½ – ¾ inch (12 – 19 mm) mild steel at 90° using a properly rated press-brake attachment.
• Large press-fit assemblies: install bull-gears, massive sprockets, and keyed couplings on high-torque shafts.

What PSI range is ideal for a 100 ton press?

Most 100 ton single-acting cylinders reach rated capacity at approximately 9,500 – 10,000 psi. Always monitor your gauge and stop below the manufacturer’s redline. Use lower pressures whenever possible to prolong seal life and reduce oil temperature.

How thick can a 100 ton press form mild steel with a brake attachment?

With a 12- to 16-inch die block specifically rated for 100 tons, you can typically bend ½ inch (12 mm) mild steel at 90°. Some wide dies or narrower workpieces allow up to ¾ inch (19 mm), but always verify the die’s tonnage per inch rating before proceeding.

Is an electric/hydraulic pump better than air/hydraulic at this size?

For production work, an electric/hydraulic unit maintains higher flow and cooler oil, cutting cycle time by up to 50 % compared with air/hydraulic. Air assist is adequate for intermittent use or shops without 220 V service but will be noticeably slower above 60 tons of force.

How often should hydraulic oil be changed?

In heavy industrial duty, replace oil every 6 months or 400 operating hours, whichever comes first. Inspect filters monthly and sample oil if you see cloudiness, foaming, or sluggish ram movement.

Do I need to anchor a 100 ton press to the floor?

Yes. Bolt the frame to a reinforced concrete slab (minimum 6 in/150 mm thick, 4,000 psi rated) using grade-8 anchors or expansion bolts. Anchoring prevents frame walk and ensures accurate force transfer into the workpiece.

What footprint and clearance are required?

Plan for a footprint of 60 in × 42 in (1.5 m × 1.1 m) and at least 36 in (900 mm) of open space in front and above the press for cranes, slings, or forklift forks. Total shipping weight can exceed 2,500 lb (1,130 kg), so verify floor load capacity and access routes before delivery.

DISCLAIMER

The suggestions above are for general information only. Every press, attachment, and workpiece is different. It is the user’s sole responsibility to:

1. Read and understand the complete owner’s manual for the specific 100 ton press and all accessories in use.
2. Verify all pressure limits, safety procedures, and maintenance steps specified by the manufacturer.
3. Consult qualified technicians or engineers whenever uncertain about a setup, fixture, or material specification.

Redline Stands assumes no liability for damage, injury, or loss resulting from misuse, improper setup, or failure to follow manufacturer instructions and professional guidance. Always confirm that your equipment, tooling, and methods are appropriate before applying hydraulic pressure.