Pacific Hydraulic Press Models Compared: 200 vs 300 vs 600 Ton
Pacific Pressworking Machines (now part of the AIDA group) built some of the most reliable hydraulic presses in the industry. Their D-series downstroke presses remain a staple in manufacturing plants across North America decades after production. If you’re considering a used Pacific press, here’s how the 200, 300, and 600-ton models compare.
At a Glance
| Specification | 200-D-10-36 | 300-D-10-60 | 600-D-10-54 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 200 tons | 300 tons | 600 tons |
| Bed Area | 123” x 36” | 123” x 60” | 123” x 54” |
| Daylight Opening | 30” | 33” | 36” |
| Max Stroke | 18” | 18” | 18” |
| Pressing Speed | 34 IPM | 25 IPM | 25 IPM |
| Motor | 30 HP | 40 HP | 60 HP |
| Weight | 43,000 lbs | 73,000 lbs | 106,000 lbs |
All three share the same fundamental design: gib-guided, dual cylinder, downstroke, self-contained hydraulic, with T-slotted bed and slide.
The 200 Ton: Mid-Range Workhorse
The Pacific 200-D-10-36 is the most compact of the three, with a 36” front-to-back bed. It is well-suited for:
- Medium stamping and blanking
- Forming sheet metal parts
- Assembly press operations
- Die tryout work
At 43,000 lbs, it is the easiest to transport and has the smallest footprint. The 30 HP motor keeps energy costs lower than the larger models. If your parts fit within the 36” F-B bed dimension, this press offers excellent value.
The 300 Ton: Versatile Middle Ground
The Pacific 300-D-10-60 bridges the gap between the 200 and 600. With a 60” front-to-back bed — the widest of the three — it handles larger parts while keeping tonnage moderate.
Best applications include:
- Large-panel forming and bending
- Medium deep drawing
- Multi-station die work (the 60” F-B bed accommodates wider progressive dies)
- Prototype and short-run production
The 300-ton capacity and 60” bed width make this the most versatile of the three models for shops that work with varied part sizes.
The 600 Ton: Heavy-Duty Power
The Pacific 600-D-10-54 delivers serious tonnage for demanding applications:
- Heavy forging and coining
- Large structural part forming
- Deep drawing of thick materials
- Aerospace and defense components
At 106,000 lbs and requiring a 60 HP motor, this press demands more infrastructure — a solid foundation, adequate electrical service, and sufficient overhead clearance (26’ H). But for operations that need 600 tons of force, it delivers reliably.
Shared Features Across All Three
Every Pacific D-series press we carry includes:
- Gib-guided ram for consistent, accurate stroke travel
- Dual cylinders for balanced force distribution
- T-slotted bed and slide for flexible die mounting
- Allen Bradley PLC controls (retrofitted in 2000) for programmable operation
- Light curtains for operator safety
- Push button operation with stroke, pressure, and speed control
The PLC retrofit is particularly significant — it brings 1970s-era presses up to modern control standards at a fraction of the cost of a new machine.
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose the 200 ton if your parts fit within 36” F-B, you need moderate tonnage, and you want the lowest operating and transport costs.
Choose the 300 ton if you need a wider bed (60” F-B), moderate-to-heavy tonnage, and maximum versatility across part sizes.
Choose the 600 ton if your application demands heavy tonnage, you’re forming thick or large structural parts, and you have the foundation and electrical infrastructure to support it.
Not sure which fits your operation? Contact Gerrard Group at (847) 894-3434 — we’ll help you match the right press to your production needs. View all available equipment.