Head-to-head single stage press comparison, or "shootout"?
We all have our favorite single stage presses, and there are those that scour the Ebay listings for that coveted A2 or whatever, but has anyone ever done a head-to-head comparison of how the various presses compare using some kind of measurable numbers?
I have no training in mechanical engineering, so I'm throwing this idea out there in the hope that someone might come up with a testing protocol that would give us some useful data. Here are my thoughts so far:
Folks who make homemade rockets with hydraulic presses use Pressure-to-Force (PtoF) gauges to determine the loading pressure they are putting on their rocket comps in various size rockets. Purpose-built gauges made for rocket hobbyists cost around $125. Here is one example: https://www.woodysrocks.com/store/p8...ce_Gauges.html
Alternatively, you can make your own for about $45 from this, by adding a dial indicator gauge: https://www.harborfreight.com/10-ton...ram-95979.html
Here is my (initial) idea:
1. Line up all the presses on a bench.
2. Fit them all with the same length handles, that have a way to hang a weight on the end.
3. Put the PtoF gauge in between the ram and the die, and have a bunch of solid metal spacers so that the ram can be made to hit the PtoF gauge at a number of specific handle angles throughout the length of its travel. Measure the angles with a Sears inclinometer: http://www.sears.com/craftsman-magne...1&blockType=G1
4. Hang a weight on the end of the handle, and take readings on the gauge at various specific handle angles for each press.
5. Measure ram stroke in inches and give % of total travel at each handle angle, because short-stroke presses have an inherent advantage.
At first blush it appears to me that this information would be useful to have. Does anyone have a better idea for a testing protocol?
"Heavy Hitter" presses to compare, including some high-end stuff (will edit to add suggestions):
RCBS A series, Rock Chucker, Big Max, .50 cal. (Ammomaster), Summit
Hollywood Senior
CH/4D Champion
Lee Classic Cast
Redding Ultramag
Hornady .50 cal
OWS Rock Crusher
Corbin S-Press
Corbin Mega-Mite
Walnut Hill