FD46 AMERICAN OPTICAL Hinge Press

Review AMERICAN OPTICAL Hinge Assembly Machine Press Model No

The American Optical FD46 Hinge Press is a versatile and reliable piece of equipment designed for the production of hinges in optical industries. This hinge press is engineered and manufactured by American Optical, a renowned name in the optics industry, known for its commitment to quality and precision.

The FD46 Hinge Press is primarily designed to manufacture hinges for optical instruments such as glasses, goggles, and various other optical devices. It features a robust and durable design, engineered to guarantee a long service life. The press is constructed with high-quality steel, giving it the strength and rigidity required for consistent and accurate hinge production.

The FD46 Hinge Press comes with a fixed platen size of 26 inches x 10 inches (66.04 cm x 25.4 cm). This platen size allows it to handle a variety of optical components and hinge sizes, making it suitable for a wide range of manufacturing applications. The press also includes interchangeable die sets, which can be easily changed based on the specific hinge design and size that needs to be manufactured.

One of the standout features of the FD46 Hinge Press is its hydraulic system, which provides the power needed to form the hinges without causing damage to the delicate optical components being pressed. The press offers adjustable pressure capabilities, enabling users to easily fine-tune the amount of force applied based on the material being used and the desired hinge shape.

The FD46 Hinge Press boasts impressive precision, ensuring that each hinge is formed accurately and consistently. This precision is made possible by its accurate die alignment, which is achieved through the use of precision Helligon bushings that minimize play and maintain alignment between the upper and lower dies.

The Hinge Press also comes equipped with various safety features to ensure the safety of operators. These includes features such as a lockout/tagout system for maintaining pressure during press maintenance or tool changes, an emergency stop button, and safety shielding around the press to protect operators from loose parts or hazardous debris.

In summary, the American Optical FD46 Hinge Press is a high-quality and reliable piece of equipment designed for the efficient and accurate production of hinges for optical instruments. Its robust design, adjustable pressure capabilities, and precise die alignment make it a valuable asset for optics manufacturers seeking to produce hinges with the utmost accuracy and excellent finish.

Pros and Cons of Buying an American Optical FD46 Hinge Press

- The American Optical FD46 hinge press is known for producing consistent and precise hinge connections, resulting in high-quality spectacle frames. This characteristic is essential in the optical industry.

- This hinge press is built to last with robust and sturdy materials. It can handle numerous cycles without requiring significant maintenance or repair, making it a wise investment for businesses.

- The FD46's ergonomic handle design allows operators to apply consistent pressure while working comfortably. This feature is essential to prevent repetitive strain injuries in long-term operations.

- The FD46 hinge press can form various types of hinges, including screw, compression, and spring hinges, making it suitable for a wide range of spectacle frames and manufacturing requirements.

- American Optical has a long-established reputation in the optical industry. Buying from a well-known and trusted manufacturer increases the confidence in the product's performance and durability.

- One significant disadvantage of the FD46 hinge press is its relatively high price point. Compared to other hinge press models on the market, this machine can be quite expensive, making it less accessible to small businesses or Startups.

- The FD46 hinge press is quite large and bulky. It requires space to install and operate effectively, making it less ideal for small workspaces.

- Upgrading to the FD46 hinge press might not be enough to achieve a fully automated production line. Additional equipment may be needed, such as edge preparers, tempering machines, or other interface tools, to create an efficient and automated workflow. This additional investment could significantly increase the overall project cost.

Conclusion: The American Optical FD46 hinge press is an excellent choice for businesses looking for high-quality, consistent, and precise hinge connections. Its durability, flexibility, and the reputability of its manufacturer add to its appeal. However, its high price point and large size could be limiting factors for some potential buyers. Furthermore, it might not provide a fully automated solution on its own, requiring additional investments to create an integrated workflow.

Recommendation: Companies with a need for large-scale, high-quality hinge production and sufficient space and budget would benefit significantly from investing in a hinge press like the American Optical FD46. Smaller businesses or startups might consider alternative, less expensive options to start, and eventually upgrade as their requirements grow. It's always essential to carefully evaluate the procurement decision based on your organization's unique circumstances and requirements.

Details:

Note in particular the long scratch on rear top side of green paint. The lever and motion operates smoothly. To me it looks like the middle pin may be damaged since tip doesn't project out other ones do see pictures. The front side has three different pins that can be ed into position to press with.

Its basically a lever operated press. There is cosmetic wear on the green paint and wood en base. Here is a vintage American Optical hinge assembly machine.

specifications lightument:

• brand: American Optical
• mpn: Fd46
• part type: Hinge

offer lightument:

• sold #: 20
• in stock #: 1
• availability: in stock
• options: ship-to-home
• started: january 10, 2025
• price: $16.50
• item condition: For parts or not working

general lightument:

• category: Business & Industrial > Light Equipment Tools

shipping lightument:

• class: standard, expedited
• type: calculated
• transit: 5-13 days
• carrier: usps
• service: usps ground advantage, usps priority mail

seller lightument:

• rating: 100.0%
• # reviews: 503
• city: palo alto, california

returns lightument:

• time: 30 days
• paid by: buyer
• policy: returns accepted
• method: money back

payments lightument:

• wallet: apple-pay
• other
• credit card: visa