prässit

Prässit are machines that apply controlled pressure to a workpiece in order to shape, form, stamp, or join materials. They are used across sectors such as metalworking, plastics processing, woodworking, and food-related operations. Prässit can range from small benchtop units to large industrial systems, and they operate with different actuation methods, including hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical screw drives. The key function is to provide repeatable force with a precise distance of travel, enabling consistent results.

Common types of prässit include hydraulic presses (hydraulinen prässi), which use fluid pressure to generate high force with smooth motion; screw presses (ruuviprässi), which rely on threaded mechanisms for high clamping forces with good control; pneumatic presses (paineilmaprässi), which use compressed air for lighter, fast cycling tasks; and punching or stamping presses (lyöntiprässi), designed for rapid metal forming and cutting. Each type is chosen based on required force, stroke, speed, and accuracy, as well as material characteristics.

Typical applications involve forming and shaping workpieces, punching holes, bending, compressing, or laminating materials, and sometimes assembling components by deforming or joining pieces under pressure. Operators must consider tooling—die sets and templates—and machine specifications such as tonnage, bed size, ram stroke, and control systems. Safety features like guards, emergency stops, and interlocks are essential, and proper lockout/tagout procedures are recommended during maintenance.

The term prässit is Finnish for multiple presses (prässi being the singular). The concept and terminology are used in various languages with similar roots, reflecting a long history of mechanical pressing devices in manufacturing and crafts. See also press (machine), stamping press, and die forming.