We have spent several years developing two special types of drive system for the slide to satisfy ever more severe productivity criteria. Both types modify the movement law and improve tool working in certain operating conditions. A mechanical press usually comprises a rotating slider crank mechanism that produces sinusoidal slide movement and speed variation. In the case of “ toggle drive” and “link drive” presses a system of connecting rods enables this movement to be modified in the vicinity of bottom dead centre. The 'toggle drive' press is mainly noted for a phase, on either side of bottom dead centre, during which the speed is practically zero. This feature is especially useful for pre-forming operations after coining.

The “link drive” press is noted for a phase of strong deceleration before passing bottom dead centre. This deceleration occurs as the die is entering the metal and produces almost constant-speed working. After passing bottom dead centre the deceleration is compensated for by strong acceleration on the up-stroke.
This drive system is advantageous mainly for blanking operations when it produces considerable savings in die wear, combined with improvements in blanking quality and noise level. Another advantage is control of the drawing speed for stamped parts of the same depth.