Because of ever faster changes in sales markets the demand for flexible production systems has risen remarkably. The demands originate not only from the sale markets but also from buying market factors such as varying batch qualities. One example is the need for quick adaption of installations and processes when production volume is changing. Actual approaches aim upon the development of machines and processes which are able to manufacture different products of one family with low effort for setting up. Progress in drive train technology and control systems allow, to build machines for a multitude of processes, which give the manufacturer a flexible tool at hand. One major focus in this area lies on servo presses. Great achievements have been obtained at the PtU by applying linear induction motors and a 3D ram movement in press technology. Further development and evaluation of this drive train technology is carried out in several projects which use commercialised servo presses and test stands for the implementation of new machine concepts.