OK SO I went overboard, again, but then I'm new here, you'll find out that I always go over board. Believe it or not I had enough parts in my shop and in back of the shop to build 4 of these, if I needed them. I did in fact only build one. Originally the press I built about 5 years ago was a simple lever arm style where you hang weights off the end to create pressure. This time I was going to go simple then I realize this version is actually simple, not cheap if you don't have the parts on hand. It allows total control.
Anyway, the biggest pneumatic cylinder I had in stock was a 4". I designed it so I can switch out the cylinder anytime without modification or losing space on the inside. Therefore after I make a few batches I will see how much starting volume I have and how long a stoke I need on the cylinder. The way this one works is I will have a long follower that screws onto the cylinder arm so the press sits on the wooden platform and you can see the cheese being pressed in all it's glory.
Yes I cut out some vinyl letting and label the dam thing. It says, "Carter's Super Happy Fun Time Cheese Press". I know weird but hey I was in a good mood...2 cheers for Lithium...no I'm not really bipolar.
The cylinder rod's speed is adjustable as well as the pressure. After I set it up I'll put one of my scales under it and record the pounds I need for the PSI. I know I could do the calculations but I'm more of a hands on and see what the real world tells me as there are endless variables that can come into affect.
Oh I did make it so a 5 Gallon bucket will fit in so If I decide I want to make some large ass Parmesan Wheels. I wonder how much a starting volume an 80 pound wheel of Parmesan would be? Oh Oh I finally got my new Direct Set Cultures so I'll be making some this weekend. I'm off to test my vat and temp control.