Abstract: A stroke limiting mechanism is connected with the movable member of a hydraulically operated machine to precisely position the movable member. The flow circuit for the stroke limiting mechanism is connected in such a manner that even if an equipment failure occurs, the movable member will be retained in a pressure-balanced condition, thus creating a fail-safe situation.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling the stroke of the movable member in a high pressure hydraulic machine, such as a hydraulic press, to permit the member to be positioned to an accuracy of 0.0005 inch and held at such position for a preselected time. The movable member is coupled to a piston movable within a cylinder which receives pressurized fluid. An adjustable threaded rod and nut arrangement is movable by movement of the piston within the cylinder, and an extension of the rod carries an actuating device for sequentially operating a first and then second valve. Operation of the first valve greatly reduces the speed of the movable member and operation of the second valve stops the movable member at its exact predetermined position. An adjustable time delay is coupled with the output from the second valve to maintain the movable member at such position for a preselected time thus maintaining the pressure on the article being formed in the machine.