Multicyl User Manual
**BE SURE TO READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL PRIOR TO USING ANY MULTICYL PRODUCTS**
Section 6: Tooling
When using a Multicyl, tooling design features are very important. Unlike traditional presses which use gibs and slides, the ram of the Multicyl has to be sure to be protected from transverse forces that could damage the seals of the cylinder. If not accounted for, these forces can be transferred up the ram of the cylinder and cause premature wear resulting in both application and maintenance problems. In fact, the most common application problem found in a Multicyl system is improperly designed tooling. The tooling must be rigidly designed to prevent deflection and transverse forces acting on the ram of the cylinder. The tooling must have a centralized load condition. Although a 4 pin dieset is ideal, 2 pin applications can be done successfully. However, with a 2 pin die set the central position is not necessarily on the center line of the punch, but may be found at any point in the triangle formed by the 2 pins and the center line of the punch.
Failure to include these features in the design of the tooling may cause application problems and machine damage.
Single acting Multicyls are not designed to return tooling. Tooling should not be attached to the ram of a single acting Multicyl. Exceptions may be made when the tooling weight is less than 5 pounds and an AD10 adaptor is used.
It is possible to return tooling with a double acting Multicyl. However, it is very important to adhere to the above tooling design features when attaching the tooling to the double acting Multicyl. Failure to do so will cause application problems. An EAC-1000 flexible coupler or 6003/6004 die connector set (available from Multicyl) should be used in all applications where the tooling is attached to a double acting Multicyl.
Whenever possible all of the following features should also be included in the tooling:
- A. four guide pins where possible
- B. upgraded guide pins and bushings
- C. built in depth stop
- D. self contained tool return springs
- E. centralized working forces
- F. minimal spring resistance (excessive spring force may cause a premature power stroke in the cylinder)
Section 7: Punching Stainless and Other Hard Materials
When working with stainless steel, or materials with similar properties, it is recommended to use high quality tool steels. Regular tool steels, such as A2, may compress or even break causing application problems.
Section 8: Air controls and air delivery
Multicyl uses only the simplest of air controls. A 3-way pilot valve and a quick exhaust (for single acting cylinders) or a 4 way pilot valve (for double acting cylinders) are all that is required. Standard foot control and palm button air control packages can be supplied from Multicyl Inc. An FRL500 filter regulator lubricator unit is recommended to be in the air line within 10' of any Multicyl in operation.
