Abstract: A system and method for increasing the viable wear life of friction materials used on mechanical stamping hydraulic clutch/brake units by controlling the hydraulic clutch pressure to compensate for clutch wear.

Abstract: A mechanism for guiding and controlling the clearance of slides of single or multiple slide mechanical presses. A novel gib mount assembly with at least one substantially flat bearing surface is utilized adjacent a portion of a slide to control clearance and undesired movement of the slide while sealing press lubrication oil from the area of the press where products are produced. Between the bearing surface of the gib mount and slide is created a squeeze seal oil film region to assist in controlling the clearance therebetween. One or more vacuum pressure regions are created about the boundaries of the oil film region to suction and capture any oil escaping from the oil film region thereby preventing oil contact with the stamped parts or products.