"Don S" > wrote in message
om...
> >
> > A B C
> >
> > O----------O-------------------------------O
> > Hinge Platen Weight
> > shaft
> >
>
> So I worked out a test case. A 12" dia basket would work
> out to:
>
> pi X d = 3.14 X 12 = 37.68 sq in

Wups! Area = (radius)² x 3.14 = 36 x 3.14 = 113 sq in
(You calculated the circumference.)

> at 30 psi we get:
>
> 30 X 37.68 = 1130.4 pds

Actually, it's 113 x 30 = 3390 lbs

> If we get a multiplier of 4 by using an 8'x2"x4" with the platen
> at 2':
>
> 1130.4/4 = 282.6 pds

No, it's 847 lbs

> Which is doable especially if you plan to add your own weight
> by stepping onto the end somehow. If we calculate at 20 psi then
> it gets even better:
>
> 20 X 37.68 / 4 = 188.4 pds

No, it's still 565 lbs. You'd still need whatever you weigh plus ~400
pounds.

> I'm going to keep
> my eye open for a used press.

That's the right idea IMO. BTW, a little bigger than you think you need is
better. Plan ahead.

Tom S