In precision forming, even small changes in pressing methods can affect the final result. Many engineers struggle to choose between single-point and multi-point pressing for their servo presses. Each method has its own benefits and challenges, especially when accuracy, part size, and tooling costs are important.
Single-point pressing uses one ram or actuator to apply force on the part. Multi-point pressing, on the other hand, uses several actuators to spread the force evenly. Single-point pressing is simple and reliable for small parts. Multi-point pressing works better for larger or more complex shapes because it keeps the surface flatter and reduces stress.
Both methods can make precise parts, but they are strong in different ways. The best choice depends on your design needs, tolerance goals, and budget priorities.
Fundamentals of Servo Pressing Systems
Servo presses change how engineers manage force and motion in precision manufacturing. Unlike hydraulic or pneumatic machines that keep constant pressure, servo presses turn electrical energy into mechanical force using a motor-driven system. This gives engineers full control of speed, movement, and force at every stage of the press cycle.
Overview of Servo Press Mechanisms
A servo press uses a servo motor linked to a ball screw or crank to move the ram up and down. The motor’s rotation turns into straight motion, pressing the tool against the part with programmable accuracy. Since the motor only works when movement happens, it avoids wasting energy when idle. Engineers can set motion profiles with different speeds — quick approach, slow forming, and controlled return — to match material and shape needs.
Aperçu de l'ingénierie : Modern small servo presses can achieve ±0.01 mm position accuracy and ±1% force repeatability. These levels of precision make them ideal for tasks like connector insertion, micro-forming, and sensor housing assembly, where even small errors can cause failures.
Force and Displacement Control
Servo presses use closed-loop control for steady results. Load cells measure the applied force, while encoders track ram position in real time. The control system adjusts torque instantly to match the set force–displacement curve. Engineers can program limits — for example, stop at 3.2 mm displacement or maintain 2.5 kN of force — to ensure consistent forming or insertion.
Each press cycle creates a force–displacement curve, which acts as a digital record of that operation. If the curve changes, it signals possible tool wear or material variation. This turns the servo press into both a forming tool and a built-in quality control system.
Role of Press Points in Load Application
“Press points” describe how the machine applies force — either through one actuator or several working together.
- Single-point pressing uses one ram to apply centered force. It’s simple, fast, and effective for small parts or focused forming areas.
- Multi-point pressing spreads the force across several actuators. Each works independently but stays synchronized, balancing pressure to reduce bending or warping on larger or complex parts.
| Paramètres | Single-Point Pressing | Multi-Point Pressing |
|---|---|---|
| Actuators | One | Two or more |
| Force Distribution | Centralized | Evenly distributed |
| Accuracy (typical) | ±0,01 mm | ±0.02 mm across surface |
| Frame Stress | High at center | Balanced |
| Meilleur pour | Small, symmetrical parts | Large, flat, or irregular surfaces |
Single-Point Pressing: Structure and Function
Single-point servo presses are the simplest yet most accurate type of forming system. They use one actuator that applies force through a single ram, making them perfect for tasks that require precision, compact design, and short cycle times.
Basic Configuration
A single-point servo press includes three main parts:
- UN servo motor that produces rotational torque.
- UN ball screw or crank system that turns rotation into straight-line motion.
- UN ram assembly that delivers force to the workpiece.
During each operation, the servo motor follows a programmed motion curve. It moves quickly at first, slows near contact, and then applies the exact amount of force needed. Feedback from the encoder and load cell ensures every stroke stays within tight limits.
Performance Benchmarks:
- Position accuracy: ±0,01 mm
- Force repeatability: ±1%
- Cycle rate: 40–60 strokes per minute (depending on load)
Because there’s only one actuator, synchronization problems don’t exist. This simple setup improves reliability and shortens installation time. It also suits clean environments since it doesn’t use oil or compressed air.
Pourquoi c'est important : The single-axis design gives engineers full control over speed and force with less complexity — ideal for automated, lean assembly systems.
Applications typiques
Single-point servo presses are widely used where precision, consistency, and cleanliness are key.
Les utilisations les plus courantes sont les suivantes
- Press-fit assembly of pins, bushings, and bearings.
- Connector insertion in automotive, PCB, and sensor production.
- Microforming for clips, brackets, or terminals.
- Precision staking or rivetage of small housings or metal shells.
Exemple : In an automotive sensor line, a 2 kN single-point servo press inserts 20 brass pins every second. The system checks each insertion curve and rejects any part that differs more than 0.02 mm from the set depth — guaranteeing perfect assemblies.
Avantages et limites
| Aspect | Avantages | Limites |
|---|---|---|
| Conception | Compact and simple structure | Not suitable for large or complex parts |
| Opération | Quick setup, easy calibration | Centralized load may cause frame stress |
| Coût | Lower cost and simple maintenance | Less effective for multi-zone forming |
| Performance | Fast response, reliable precision | Uneven force on wide surfaces |
Multi-Point Pressing: Concept and Operation
Multi-point servo pressing extends precision control to larger or more complex parts by using several synchronized actuators instead of one. Each actuator applies force at a different point, spreading pressure evenly across the surface. This reduces bending, avoids local stress, and keeps part thickness or seal compression consistent.
Coordinated Control of Multiple Actuators
In a multi-point servo press, each actuator has its own servo drive but communicates with a shared controller. The system synchronizes movement, force, and position across all press points in real time. If one actuator meets higher resistance，the others automatically adjust to keep the force balanced.
This coordination achieves force uniformity within ±2%, even on wide or flexible parts. The controller updates data every 1–2 milliseconds, ensuring each actuator reacts instantly to feedback. Engineers can also assign different stroke or force targets to separate points, allowing one press to handle several steps, such as clamping, forming, and seating, in a single cycle.
Exemple : In EV battery module assembly, a four-point servo press applies 40 kN in total, distributed evenly at 10 kN per actuator. The system maintains seal compression within ±0.03 mm across a 300 mm-wide surface, ensuring consistent sealing without deformation.
Mechanical and Electronic Synchronization
Multi-point precision depends on both structural design and control software. Each actuator mounts on a reinforced frame that resists bending or twisting. Load cells and encoders collect data in real time, while synchronization algorithms make adjustments within microseconds.
If one actuator moves out of line by just 0.05 mm, the controller redistributes load and recalculates torque instantly. This prevents uneven force, sealing gaps, or tool wear. High-end presses also include thermal compensation systems that correct for small expansions in large multi-axis setups.
Pourquoi c'est important : Even a 0.05 mm offset can cause part deformation or uneven bonding. Real-time synchronization eliminates these issues and protects part quality.
Application Examples
Multi-point servo presses are ideal when part size, geometry, or surface accuracy exceed the limits of single-point presses.
Les applications les plus courantes sont les suivantes
- EV battery pack compression – ensures uniform sealing and bonding.
- Large PCB lamination – provides even pressure to prevent warping or solder cracks.
- Sensor and optical assembly – maintains precise alignment with gentle pressure.
- Multi-zone forming tools – enables simultaneous operations to shorten cycle time.
| Application | Typical Force | Tolérance de planéité | Bénéfice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery pack sealing | 30–50 kN total | ±0.03 mm | Consistent gasket pressure |
| Large PCB pressing | 5–10 kN | ±0,05 mm | Prevents bending or lift |
| Optical component bonding | <1 kN | ±0,01 mm | Keeps optical alignment stable |
Engineering Takeaway: Multi-point servo pressing is more than adding actuators — it’s about intelligent coordination. Distributed control ensures every contact surface receives equal, measurable, and repeatable force.
Comparative Analysis: Single vs Multi-Point Systems
Each system excels in different engineering conditions. Comparing their performance, cost, and flexibility helps determine the best fit for your production goals.
Force Distribution and Accuracy
In a single-point press, all force passes through one ram. This provides excellent control in a small area but can create pressure differences on wide or uneven surfaces. For compact parts, accuracy reaches ±0.01 mm with force variation around ±5%.
Multi-point systems distribute force through several actuators that adjust in real time. Their synchronization keeps pressure and flatness balanced across large or irregular shapes. Advanced systems achieve ±2% force uniformity and flatness deviation within ±0.02 mm, even across surfaces wider than 300 mm.
Pourquoi c'est important : Uneven pressure can cause tool wear, part warping, or inconsistent forming. Multi-point systems solve this through continuous feedback and correction.
Equipment Cost and Complexity
Single-point presses are simpler and less costly. They include one drive, one ram, and a compact frame. Typical costs range from $4,000 to $15,000, depending on tonnage and control level.
Multi-point presses use several actuators, drives, and reinforced structures, which increases both price and setup complexity. Systems usually cost $15,000 to $40,000, depending on the number of axes. The investment pays off in better quality, flexibility, and traceability — especially for parts that require surface flatness or uniform sealing.
Exemple : A PCB production line replaced three single-point presses with one four-point synchronized press. Scrap and rework dropped enough to recover the cost difference in just nine months.
Flexibility and Scalability
Single-point presses work best for prototypes and small batches. Engineers can easily reprogram stroke and force profiles for new designs. However, their small work area limits their ability to handle large or uneven parts.
Multi-point presses scale more easily. Additional actuators can be added or repositioned to fit different parts. In automated systems, one multi-point unit can replace several smaller presses, saving both space and cycle time.
Pourquoi c'est important : Multi-point systems fit modern digital manufacturing goals — modular, scalable, and adaptable for a wide range of products.
Energy Efficiency and Cycle Performance
Single-point presses are generally more energy-efficient because only one motor runs per cycle. They use around 0.6–0.8 kWh per hour. Their shorter stroke and simpler control make them faster, ideal for high-volume assembly.
Multi-point systems use 1.2–1.8 kWh per hour since multiple actuators run together. Still, many recover energy during deceleration, improving overall efficiency. Their cycle times are slightly longer, but the gain in part quality and reduced scrap often offsets the difference.
Engineering Takeaway: Single-point presses lead in simplicity and speed. Multi-point presses stand out in consistency and quality. The best system depends on whether your production prioritizes fast cycles or balanced precision across large surfaces.
Engineering Design Considerations
Mechanical stiffness and sensor feedback define pressing precision. Examining these design factors shows how structure, calibration, and control ensure long-term stability and accuracy.
Load Distribution and Frame Design
The press frame is the foundation of every precision system. Any flex or twist changes how force transfers through the ram, which can affect accuracy and part quality.
- Single-point presses must resist off-axis bending since all force travels along one central line. Most use a C-frame or H-frame made from high-strength steel with a modulus of elasticity near 210 GPa.
- Multi-point presses spread the load across several actuators, creating more complex stress paths. Engineers usually run Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to study both vertical and side deflection to keep all pressing points parallel.
A well-built frame typically limits deflection to less than 0.01 mm per 10 kN of force. Reinforced beams, thick guide columns, and accurate machining all help the frame stay balanced and rigid.
Sensor Feedback and Closed-Loop Control
Servo presses depend on sensors to track performance in real time.
- Load cells monitor pressing force.
- Linear encoders measure displacement in microns.
- Temperature and vibration sensors detect small drifts or misalignments.
In a single-point system, one feedback loop manages both position and force. In a multi-point system, each actuator has its own sensors that report to a shared controller. The system updates every 1–2 milliseconds, balancing torque and movement across all axes.
| Control Element | Single-Point | Multi-Point |
|---|---|---|
| Canaux de rétroaction | 1 | Multiple synchronized |
| Update interval | 1–2 ms | 1–2 ms per axis |
| Control type | Closed-loop (single axis) | Multi-axis coordinated |
| Compensation | Local | Global |
Calibration and Alignment Procedures
Calibration keeps servo presses accurate through continuous use. In single-point models, engineers align the ram and die, zero the load cell, and verify displacement with gauges or indicators.
For multi-point presses, calibration is more involved. Each actuator must first be tested alone, then adjusted as a synchronized group. Engineers apply test loads to confirm all actuators share force evenly. Any detected difference is corrected in the software.
Best Practices for Calibration:
- Use certified calibration tools or sensors traceable to ISO standards.
- Check and recalibrate after tooling changes or major maintenance.
- Recheck when the temperature shifts more than ±5 °C to correct for thermal expansion.
- Verify surface flatness by pressing on a calibration plate and measuring force variation.
Conclusion
Single-point and multi-point servo presses each play a distinct role in precision manufacturing. Single-point systems offer simple setup, fast operation, and lower costs — making them perfect for compact or symmetrical parts that require accurate but localized force.
Multi-point systems, on the other hand, provide synchronized control and evenly distributed load. They are the preferred choice for larger or more complex assemblies where consistent flatness and pressure uniformity are critical for quality and reliability.
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Our engineering team can review your part design, load requirements, and process targets to recommend an optimal setup. Contactez-nous dès aujourd'hui for a detailed consultation and a customized servo press configuration plan.FAQ
What is the main difference between single-point and multi-point pressing?
Single-point pressing applies force through one actuator, focusing pressure on a single area. Multi-point pressing uses several actuators that share the load evenly, improving flatness and balance across larger surfaces.
Which pressing method is better for delicate components?
Single-point servo presses work best for small or fragile parts. Their simple design and precise force control reduce vibration and stress, protecting sensitive components.
Can a multi-point servo press operate as independent single presses?
Yes. Many multi-point systems can switch modes, letting actuators work separately or together. This setup allows one machine to perform several different pressing operations efficiently.
How does synchronization affect pressing quality?
Synchronization ensures every actuator moves at the same time and applies equal force. Without it, timing or load differences can cause uneven forming, misalignment, or tool wear. Real-time feedback keeps pressing quality stable and repeatable.
What industries benefit most from multi-point servo pressing?
Industries such as electronics, EV battery assembly, medical devices, and optical systems gain the most. These sectors require balanced pressure, clean operation, and detailed process tracking at the micron level.
Hey, je suis Kevin Lee
Au cours des dix dernières années, j'ai été immergé dans diverses formes de fabrication de tôles, partageant ici des idées intéressantes tirées de mes expériences dans divers ateliers.
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Kevin Lee
J'ai plus de dix ans d'expérience professionnelle dans la fabrication de tôles, avec une spécialisation dans la découpe au laser, le pliage, le soudage et les techniques de traitement de surface. En tant que directeur technique chez Shengen, je m'engage à résoudre des problèmes de fabrication complexes et à favoriser l'innovation et la qualité dans chaque projet.
