Straight Side Presses

Why Buy a Used Straight Side Press from Alma Machinery?

At Alma Machinery, we’ve been providing high-quality used straight side presses to manufacturers for decades. Whether you’re looking for a 200-ton single-point press or a 600-ton two-point press with automation-ready features, we maintain a large inventory of in-stock machines that are fully inspected and available for fast delivery.

Every press is available for video or in-person inspection, and many come reconditioned and production-ready. Our team of press experts can help you identify the right machine for your application, budget, and floor layout.


Filter by Tonnage / Size

Stroke (in Inches)

Bed Area (Inches Right to Left)

Weight Capacity (lbs.)

Width (in Inches)

Thickness / O.D. (in Inches)

What is a Straight Side Press?

Straight side presses, also known as double column presses, are heavy-duty machines used in metal forming applications where precision, power, and frame rigidity are critical. These presses are easily identified by their upright side columns, which support the ram and bolster in a way that minimizes deflection during operation. Unlike gap frame or C-frame presses, the design of a straight side press allows for greater force distribution across the press bed, making them ideal for high-tonnage and high-volume production.

Common Applications of Straight Side Presses

Straight side presses are commonly found in industries like automotive, appliance manufacturing, aerospace, agriculture, and general metal fabrication. They are frequently used in operations such as:

  • Blanking
  • Stamping
  • Punching
  • Coining
  • Deep drawing
  • Forming heavy-gauge materials

Because of their strength and durability, straight side presses can handle large dies and high off-center loads, making them a preferred choice for progressive die work and applications requiring long bed lengths and high repeatability.

Advantages of Straight Side Presses

  • Rigidity & Precision: The two-column frame design provides exceptional stability, reducing lateral deflection and maintaining die alignment even under heavy loads. This leads to more accurate, consistent parts and less die wear over time.
  • Higher Tonnage Capabilities: Straight side presses can deliver much higher tonnage compared to other types, often ranging from 100 to over 2,000 tons, making them suitable for large-scale or thick material operations.
  • Improved Die Life: With better force distribution and minimized deflection, dies used in straight side presses typically experience less stress and last longer, especially when compared to those in gap frame presses.
  • Off-Center Load Capacity: Unlike some other presses, straight side presses can manage eccentric loading, allowing for complex or asymmetrical tooling setups without compromising the machine’s structural integrity.
  • Customizable Configurations: These presses are available in a variety of configurations including single-point, two-point, four-point, and even link motion designs, which further refine stroke control for more delicate or precise applications.

Disadvantages to Consider

  • Footprint & Weight: Due to their robust construction, straight side presses take up significantly more floor space and can weigh several times more than similar-tonnage gap frame presses. This can be a factor for facilities with limited space.
  • Cost: Typically, straight side presses are more expensive to purchase and move due to their size, complexity, and high material capacity. However, buying used straight side presses can dramatically reduce the investment required due to the accuracy, longevity, limited down time and speed.
  • Complex Installation: Many high-tonnage straight side presses may require special foundations or pit installations, adding to the setup time and cost.