Bolster Extensions

Designed as a permanent solution, Swing-Away Bolster Extensions are always available, yet easily moved out of the way, as needed.  Extensions are rated for 6,000 lbs per pair and available up to 40 inches in length, fitting comfortably into most die applications where swing-away extensions are practical.

In applications where extension arms will be stored outward or where the extension separation on the press is greater than 2x the length, arms of the same size work nicely.  For inward storage where arms need to overlap, ordering the next smaller size extension for one side along with a nesting spacer is recommended*. This makes the hinge location different between the two arms and allows one extension to store closer to the bolster than the other arm (See illustration).

*When using different model (length) arms in a nesting application, use only arms with matching “B” dimensions.

For spacer assemblies use style and model number only. Example:  BE-14688

For non-nesting application, order same size extensions.
Example – for 28” application:
• Qty. 2   BE-527-28

For nesting application, order one extension shorter with a spacer assembly.  Example – for a 28” application:
• Qty. 1   BE-527-28 extension
• Qty. 1   BE-527-24 extension
• Qty. 1   BE-14688 spacer assembly

• BE-527

Designed for larger load applications, Models 524 and 524HD Detachable Bolster Extensions provide maximum flexibility for press access and easy movement to other presses. A gate latch and lock pin easily secure the bolster extensions to the bolster for semi-permanent integrity during die loading and unloading.. Steel wheels allow for strong rigid support of the extensions during use and comfortable rolling to another press, if used as part of a modular multi-press QDC system.

The Detachable Bolster Extensions are custom made to approximate the application height requirements at 2” even intervals with a nominal +/- 2 inch height adjustment for leveling and some flexibility for variations in press heights. Extension height from the floor to the top of the rollers is specified by a height dimension in 2” increments – 30”(minimum), 32”, 34”, 36”….to 50”.

While the 524 series is designed to be ordered and provided as a standardized production part, customizations of the 524 are available for a variety of unique requirements.

Bracket Height is for the bracket only and not the distance from the die lifter roller surface or bolster surface. For a nominal .090” roller height above the surface, the bottom of the mounting bracket will be 6.0” below the surface. Minimum bolster thickness is 5” or equivalent support structure available. Please order at least one mounting bracket for each extension arm. Bolster extensions are ordered as each. For complete mounting details contact PFA.

Traveling and Slotless Bolster Extensions are unique versions of our standard lift off bolster extensions. As lift-offs, they provide for easy removal during press operations and allow a single pair to be used for multiple presses. They are unique because the traditional rollers are replaced with a slot or channel, very similar to that in the bolster itself. These slots are used with our Model 706 Mechanical Die Lifters to move dies from the bolster extension into the press via one of two methods:

Traveling Bolster Extensions. The first method is named after the ability of the die lifter to “travel” from the bolster extension into a slot in the bolster. The Traveling Bolster Extension Model 522 is mounted using the Model 912N, 912W, 913N, and 913W mounting brackets, so the channel or slot bottom of the bolster extension lines up with the bottom of the shimmed slot in the bolster. With proper alignment and shimming of the slot, the Model 706 travels easily from the extension into the bolster slot. In cases of cutouts in the bolster, an optional “Bridge” shim can often be used to shim the slot, making use of the mechanical die lifter possible in those situations. After die insertion, both the mechanical die lifter AND the bridge shim can be removed to allow normal die operation. If a bridge is use, a “B” is added to the model number, as in 522B.

Slotless Bolster Extensions. The second method is named because of the lack of slots in the bolster on which these are used. Moving dies easily into a press without slots or slots in the “non-preferred” direction has always been a particular challenge for implementing Quick Die Change. With the Model 530 Slotless Bolster Extensions, however, moving a die into a slotless press is fast and easy. The extensions are mounted using the Model 916W or 917W Mounting Bracket so the channel or slot bottom of the bolster extension lines up with the to surface of the bolster. Dies are modified with parallels or spaces are added between parallels to provide for a gap between the bolster and die surface of 1.520”-1.530”, which allows proper clearance for the Model 706 Mechanical die lifter to both lift the die and be removable after die change.

Traveling Bolster Extensions

Models 522 and 522B

Please order at least one mounting bracket for each extension arm. Bolster extensions are ordered as each.
To order a pair, order 2 extensions and at least 2 brackets.

*For Bridge in T-Slot applications, add a “B” to the Model Number. Contact PFA for application assistance.

Slottless Bolster Extensions

Model 530 for Bolsters without slots for Die Lifters

• BE-522