Log splitters for presses?

D

DukeHarley

Joined
Apr 11, 2014
Messages
644
I heard yesterday some guys have bought log splitters and have used them, modified of course, as presses for forge welding? anyone heard of this or have done it yourself?

Jay
 
Pretty much everything you need is on a log splitter. They're just not set up correctly for forging, meaning where you do the work, but thats where the modifying comes in. The other thing being you're generally getting a cylinder with 2x or more the travel than you need in a forging press.

I just bought all the hydraulic components I need to essentially duplicate a log splitter level performance forging press for ~$600. It's hard to find a used 25 ton splitter around here for that much, and I generally think converting something already built is more work than just building it from scratch.

But if you can find a reasonably priced one, it may be worth it.
 
Then ya have the gas motor to deal with. Electric is much nicer in the shop!!!

My press has log splitter components, pump, valve, filter, etc. But like Kuraki mentioned, a much shorter cylinder.
 
Definitely consider replacing the gas motor with an electric.
 
We had a guy up here (Joe Collett from last season of forged in fire) make one. He switched the valve out, welded some thick plate on the bottom, and a piece of railroad rail to the piston. It isn't ideal, but it does work. Makes Damascus just fine.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top