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