Abstract: A thermoforming trim press is provided with a frame, a punch plate, a die plate, and a bushing. The frame has a guide post including a tapered outer surface with increasing cross-sectional dimension toward a closing position. The punch plate has a male cutting die. The die plate has a female cutting die configured to scissor in intermeshing relation with the male cutting die. The bushing has a tapered inner surface complementary and reverse to the tapered outer surface of the guide post. The bushing is adjustable in cross-sectional dimension and is configured to guide one of the punch plate and the die plate for axial reciprocation along the guide post. A method is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus which forms a controlled engageable low maintenance seal between the slide and the gib of a mechanical press and which prevents lubricant from exiting the area between the slide and the gib and entering the die space. The sealing arrangement is selectively actuatable depending upon an operational condition of the press.