A Simplified Model of an Offset Ram Press for Sunflower Oil Expression

This paper presents the theoretical analysis of a simplified model of a ram press. The design of the ram press is based on the classical slider-crank mechanism. A force analysis of the press was performed for several successive positions of the driving lever (handle) and for a range of values of certain dimensionless parameters that influence the performance of this mechanism. Because the ram press is a low speed machine, static analysis was employed, and the equations governing its equilibrium were deduced. Conclusions as to improved machine performance were drawn from an analysis of the mechanical advantage, velocity ratio, efficiency and transmission angle that are deduced for the range of possible lever angles and offset ratios. KEYWORDS: ram press, slider-crank mechanism, static analysis, offset, oil extractione (Af. J. of Science and Technology: 2002 3(1): 62-69