Uses for a 2 Ton Mechanical Punch Press

[cijuanni]

I stumbled upon a Klass Emco 1-W-A mechanical punch press. 2 ton rated, 2 inch stroke.

I usually don't see these small ones and was in great shape so I couldn't pass it up. It weights about 200lbs without motor or stand.

I know these don't have any value because of the lack of safety controls etc. Has any one found other uses for these, besides a door stop or a mailbox. Mega reloading press perhaps?

What is a 2 ton model capable of punching in steel?
I have an idea in flesh.

[DR]

It's good for punching holes.....

2 ton machines are very handy for light sheet metal work.

The rule I use to remember capacity is 1.2 tons to punch a 1/4" hole in 16ga mild steel. So with 2 tons you're nearing 1/2" hole.

You can cheat a little on capacity by modifying your punches or dies to have "shear". Grinding shear onto one or the other reduces the required tonnage noticeably.

The hole size capacity is about 50% greater in aluminum and other soft materials.