After many months of construction (and a few setbacks) we welcome a new addition to the workshop - the hydraulic press. This machine puts about 25 tons of pressure on hot steel - forge welding with ease. It is the strong silent type and complains much less than a striker, and will dramtically lift productivity levels in the shop.
Initial tests in making damascus billets have come in about 16 times faster than by hand, without rushing! We didn't even break a sweat in making the first 180 layer billet. This should get faster as we get some practice.
This press makes damascus courses accessable to students of the Tharwa Valley Forge.
Many thanks to Myles and the guys at M and G Industrial for their help, support and advice.