The design and manufacture of this model was commenced around 1963. The detail drawings for the model were prepared by the senior apprentices undergoing training in the Technical Drawing Office.
The press was a 1 1/2″ – 1 ft. scale model, equipped with a small hydraulic pump and electrical relay system (contained within the stand) designed to replicate the correct sequence of operations of a full-size package-type extrusion press. Various upgrades were done over the years. A single automatic sequence demonstrated the container seal/unseal; main ram forward/back; shear down/up; and die slide in/out.
It is assumed that the pattern shop were responsible for making the dummy supply tank, pumps, motors and prefill valve. The press was built in spare time over a period by Alec Pope (who worked in the Maintenance Dept.) and according to the last photo was complete by 1968. From time-to-time the model was used at exhibitions and loaned to companies for their open days (especially to Alcan Banbury). For many years the model resided in the foyer at the entrance to the Main Offices. At the time of writing it is understood that the model is located at the premises of Messrs. Oilgear Towler in Leeds.
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