A hydraulic press can generate a range of pressure from 1000 to 3000 psi. Hydraulic systems, in general, are capable of applying pressures in the region of 10,000 psi, compared to about 100 psi for pneumatic systems. The force of the press is determined by the pressure created by the hydraulic pump and is rated in tons. The pump can be manually, pneumatically, or electrically operated depending on the application and press size. The press works by the pump creating a fixed pressure that forces the pressing cylinder to extend and make contact with the material, pressing against it with a set force. Once pressure is removed, the cylinder retracts to its housing. In larger scale pressing operations, electric- or air-operated pumps may be used to reduce the need for manual control of the pressure.