Manifold plate: Constant force with every stroke for smooth processes
When conventional springs are no longer sufficient
In simple applications, self-contained gas springs often perform well. However, they quickly reach their limits when used in more complex tools or demanding production conditions. Disadvantages arise as soon as the components require high forces, the installation space is limited, or production runs in three shifts. Individual self-contained gas springs react differently to loads, wear unevenly, and require regular maintenance. This leads to unpredictable downtime with high costs.
Manifold plates provide a remedy here. They connect several manifold plate cylinders via a central pressure system, thus ensuring synchronous operation of all components. This allows manufacturing processes to be controlled and permanently stable, even at high cycle rates and large spring strokes.
How a manifold plate works in the tool
A manifold plate is a closed pressure vessel that connects several manifold plate cylinders to each other via volume holes in the carrier plate. The cylinders are not filled individually, but receive their nitrogen pressure centrally via the control valve installed on the manifold plate.
This has the following technical effects:
All cylinders in the same system operate at exactly the same pressure. In principle, different pressure systems can be implemented in one plate.
The force curve remains almost constant over the entire stroke.
Pressure peaks are eliminated.
The integrated lubrication is distributed automatically by the system movement.
Technical advantages at a glance
| Feature | Self-contained springs | Manifold plate systems |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure distribution | Individually per spring | Central, synchronized across all springs |
| Force curve | Linear with large increase in force, often uneven | Linear with very flat pressure increase, even |
| Maintenance | Regular inspection, refilling | Low effort, lubricant integrated |
| Service life | Short to medium | Up to 12 months |
| Installation effort | High effort, each spring must be fitted separately | Compact unit with clear assignment |
| Susceptibility to errors | High with uneven load | Low, because centrally controlled |
Complete solution from N2-Tech: Technology with a system
A functional manifold plate does not begin with delivery, but with planning. That is why N2-Tech does more than just manufacturing. We work with you to develop a system that fits your tool perfectly and functions reliably during operation.
We take care of the following for you:
- Technical advice and review of requirements
- Construction of the manifold plate based on your tool data
- Assembly and installation of the manifold plate system
- Pressure testing and preparation of legally required documents
- Support during installation directly on the press
- Inspection prior to commissioning or assistance with this
- Training of operating personnel in safe handling
- Maintenance and system checks during operation
Where the manifold plate shows its strengths
Manifold plate systems demonstrate their advantages particularly in environments with high demands on stability, precision, and service life. Typical applications are:
Deep-drawing tools for sheet metal parts with precise force requirements
Production lines with continuous three-shift operation
Tools with severely limited installation space
Combination tools for cutting and forming processes
Production with high cycle rates and strict maintenance requirements
In all these scenarios, the manifold plate ensures consistent process conditions. There is no need to replace individual cylinders, downtime is avoided, and production quality remains constant.
Advantages of the manifold plate in use
Uniform force curves
Significantly longer service life
Less maintenance
Individual spring pressures no longer need to be checked or replenished regularly. The manifold plate makes maintenance predictable and reduces unplanned downtime.
All manifold plate cylinders in the system are supplied with identical pressure. This ensures clean forming behavior, prevents uneven spring forces in the tool, and protects sensitive components from unwanted deformation.