White Papers

Safeguarding is more of a challenge with full revolution clutch presses than with air clutch presses, and their compliance cost often exceeds their original/replacement cost. Important factors to be considered when planning to bring full revolution clutch mechanical power presses into compliance with OSHA 1910.217 standards are presented in this paper. The OSHA standard requirements for full revolution clutch presses are highlighted, along with a table that lists the distances at which guards must be positioned from the danger line in accordance with regulations. The various alternatives for fixed barrier guards for hand fed presses such as 2 hand trip, Type A sliding barrier device, pullouts or restraints are illustrated, and their uses are explained. The document also focuses on the cost effectiveness and the advantages of hydraulic presses, air over oil hydraulic presses, and pneumatic presses.