Working model of "Bennie" lever punching and shearing machine with side limber punch and two cranes

This model represents a type of lever punching and shearing machine. with side limber punch and two jib cranes, commonly used in shipbuilding yards.

The base consists of a massive iron casting on which are pivoted three heavy levers which operate the various punches and shears. Both the punches have stop motions to permit the plate worked on to be positioned with the punch stationary. In the model a hand wheel is fitted, but in actual practice the drive would be either by belt or electric motor. The machine runs continuously and the motions of the three elements are timed consecutively so as to distribute the load evenly and avoid peak loads occurring simultaneously. The jib cranes facilitate handling of large plates.