Toolholding & Workholding

The online store is divided into three categories, helping quickly guide visitors to their area of interest. The store features Tooling Tech's full catalog of Segen quick-change cylinder locks, knobs and fasteners suited for clamping and work holding in a variety of industries and applications as well as the full thermoforming and blow molding catalogs.

When it comes to flawlessly clamping and positioning workpieces, the flexible, adjustable and enclosed 82L-3E Series Power Clamps are the perfect choice for users. Specifically, the 82L-3E's opening angle can be quickly adjusted with just one tool, which helps guarantee maximum flexibility of use.

The pneumatic clamps of the GN 860 series now have hardened, ground bearing bushings and tempered bearing pins for significantly reduced wear. No meaningful alterations were observed in testing for over 250,000 cycles. Structural reinforcement of the sheet steel housing reduces wear-inducing vibrations during operation, which makes a difference even under lower loads. And, finally, the new one-way restrictor in the cylinder enables smoother travel to extend the lifespan of the piston.

Rego-Fix's powRgrip allows Symmetrix Composite Tooling to confidently run parts overnight or longer.

Symmetrix Composite Tooling Inc. discusses how a unique collet-holding system from Rego-Fix Tool Corp. helped the shop eliminate cutting tools from pulling out of holders. n

Developed in collaboration with global motor manufacturers, HEIDENHAIN's new PressFit encoders include a "PressFit" flange that can be secured in a motor housing through a frictional connection, using a specially designed tolerance sleeve. This innovative system promises to support automation efforts by easing mounting requirements, leading to less mounting time being required.

As a workholding option, hydraulic technology has a number of attractions — and a few important downsides.

The user-friendly new models allow for fast handling and enable their users to build up applications more efficiently with little interference contour. The 503-MLBR and 533-LBR clamps are fully interchangeable with models having the same specifications, other models are available upon request.

The front-mount option is available for inclusion on a total of four manual clamps that can be used with both vertical and horizontal handle action. The two vertical operating models – 2002-UF and 2007-UF – provide enlarged space for manual operations and increased safety. The horizontal versions – models 225-UF and 235-UF – have a flat design that creates space for larger hand clearance, which improves operational safety.

Receiving the most extensive quality enhancements is the Model 802-U Manual Clamp. The updates include an upgraded air cylinder that ensures the clamp's exerting force is less than the maximum holding capacity when operated at normal pressure, which extends service life; new composite bearings on the trunnion mount and cylinder pivot point that eliminate metal-to-metal contact while requiring no lubrication; and a redesigned clevis bolt, along with increased rivet and pre-stop diameters that increase longevity.

Deciding to automate can be a big investment. However, with proper preparation, the move may reap big rewards.

Performing five-axis machining with a 3+2 strategy is preferred by a growing number of part manufacturers.