What is the Reducing Plate?

Name: Jonny @ Mayku
Price range: $

3 minutes read • Nov 29, 2023

Seamlessly integrating with the Mayku Multiplier, the Reducing Plate condenses the forming area of the Multiplier down to A4 or US letter format, opening up access to hundreds of global sheet suppliers that provide straight-cut sheets.

The Reducing Plate also reduces waste when forming smaller parts, ensuring that you use just the right amount of material for your application.

It also enables the use of thicker materials above 5mm and reduces webbing on parts.

How to install the Reducing Plate

Preparation

Have your reducing plate sheet material cut to the right size (A4 or US letter)
Ensure you have heat-proof gloves (included) on hand
Optionally, keep a white chalk pen ready

Position the reducing plate into the Multiplier, ensuring the long edge of the reducing plate aligns with the front edge of the Multiplier. Alignment is key, avoid placing the reducing plate over the pins as this leaves marks on the underside of the plate and makes it difficult to close the lid when forming.

Using the white chalk pen, outline the open area of the reducing plate onto the bed of the Multiplier. This will act as your template placement guide.

Loosen the screws. Turn all four screws anti-clockwise just enough to loosen them. No need to unscrew them fully.
Remove the top tray. Pull the handle to slide the top tray outwards. If it doesn't move smoothly, loosen the screws a bit more. Set the top tray aside for now.
Position the sheet material. Choose your desired sheet material and remove any protective layer. Lay the sheet over the reducing plate, ensuring it's centered.
Secure the sheet. Place the top tray back over the sheet and slide it to its original position. Firmly tighten all four screws, ensuring they apply roughly equal pressure. Over tightening of thumb screws can cause the reducing plate to bend. Check for any obvious gaps along the edges that you can see.
Insert the reducing plate. Position the entire reducing plate setup into the Multiplier. Double-check that the long edge of the reducing plate aligns with the front edge of the Multiplier.
Run the Multiplier. Operate the machine as you usually would. Although standard Mayku profiles can be used, setting up a custom profile using the new Custom Mode feature is advised for optimal results. Make sure you use the correct material profile in custom mode. Using a different material profile can cause the sheet not to form properly and potentially bend the plate
Post-forming process. Wear your heat-proof gloves once the forming cycle ends; the reducing plate will be hot. Carefully remove the reducing plate from the Multiplier.

Note: If the reducing plate sticks onto the Multiplier's seals, use a screwdriver to gently release it while supporting the bottom to prevent it from falling.

Undo all four screws, slide the top tray out, and retrieve the formed item from the Reducing Plate. Your formed part is now ready.