Previously published methods of extrusion press alignment made use of traditional mechanics' tools such as precision levels, piano wire, micrometers, and various jigs and fixtures. Alignments were not made with the press under load, nor at operating temperature. More modern methods of measurement are desirable in order to improve accuracy and to take readings under actual operating conditions. Advances with surveying instruments began by using triangulation (intersection) with digital theodolites systems. In this paper, the latest methods using 3D Laser Tracking technology are presented. Additional benefits of this system have been identified, including: improved profile tolerances; significant production improvements; dummy block wear significantly reduced and total failures eliminated; longer container liner service life; noticeably less wear to ram and container guide-way bronze wear strips; and stem replacements minimized. Some observations are made regarding press establishment, press benchmarking, and the combined tolerances and error propagation effects for press frame alignment.
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