Luke Herbert. The Engineer’s & Mechanics Encyclopedia, Vol. 2 , 1849 (p. 333)
The above press won a prize for it because it demonstrates the five mechanical powers of a simple machine: the wheel and axle, lever, wedge, inclined plane, and pulley. Sometimes a screw is also considered a sixth basic function, although it is essentially an inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder. Herbert’s article on presses also illustrates a number of high tech screw presses used by bookbinders from this time. The state of the art information contained within this book is reflected by its binding: my 1840 edition is in a caoutchouc binding, which was invented in 1836.
Peachey Conservation 
Doesn’t look like there is any kind of controlled release, but very cool nonetheless
You are right- looks like the whole thing would explode.
Because screw presses were too difficult to manage? Although I suppose the arrangement of notches (b) would give a consistent pressure for edition work. Assuming the object to be pressed was the same thickness at any rate.
It’s almost steampunk.