This article describes the various types of press construction and the factors that influence the selection of mechanically or hydraulically powered machines for producing parts from sheet metal. Presses are broadly classified, according to the type of frame used in their construction, into two main groups: gap-frame presses and straight-side presses. The article describes the various components of mechanical presses and hydraulic presses. It discusses important factors, such as the size, force, energy, and speed requirements, that influence the selection of a press. The article describes the roles of automatic handling equipment that can be categorized as feeding equipment, unloading equipment, and transfer equipment. It concludes with information on the common types of high-production presses, such as dieing machines, multiple-slide machines, transfer presses, fine blanking presses, and flexible-die forming presses.

Multiple-slide forming is a process in which the workpiece is progressively formed in a combination of units that can be used in various ways for the automated fabrication of a large variety of simple and intricately shaped parts from coil stock or wire. This article discusses the components of multiple-slide rotary forming machines involved in the blanking and forming of strip stock. It describes a complicated application of the two-level forming, with an example.

The multiple-slide machine, sometimes called a four-way, four-slide, or multislide machine, is a somewhat specialized item of stamping equipment, although it is very versatile within a limited area of stamping applications. This article discusses the construction and advantages of multiple-slide machines. It presents comparisons of four-slide operations with press operations based on production speed, tooling cost, tool adjustments, and operating cost. The article reviews some factors to be considered while selecting multiple-slide machines. It summarizes the strip materials commonly used in four-slide production. The article examines the design factors of four-slide parts, including tolerances and finishes. It provides the design recommendations for optimal part quality at maximum production speed. The article also discusses various four-slide cutoff methods.