Workholding
Flexible Pallet Automation Achieves High Spindle Utilization
Toyoda Machinery offers modular and expandable automation with its Flexible Pallet Automation (FPA) systems. The FPA systems enhance the production capabilities of HMCs by automating tasks such as machine loading and unloading.
Read MoreWorkholding Options Enhance Productivity
Hardinge Style-S master collets use interchangeable pads that can be changed without removing the master collet from the spindle, thus reducing change-over time. When loading bars, the shoulder of the pad locates against the front of the groove in the master collet.
Read MoreFour Spindles Accommodate 1,000-LB Tailstock Thrust
The Hardinge 5C2 quad-spindle indexing system is suited for small- to medium-sized parts of virtually all shapes. Each spindle can accommodate a 50-lb (23-kg) part with an axial thrust of 1,000-lbs (4,448 N).
Read MorePins: The Alternative To Parallels
These vise jaws use protruding, mechanical pins to repeatedly support workpieces either horizontally or at angles. They are said to allow quicker setups than conventional parallels.
Read MoreHigh-Density, Long Vises Available In Two Additional Capacities
Kurt Manufacturing says its high-density, long vises with two clamping stations can increase machining center productivity. Manual and hydraulic models are available in 4" and 6" capacities to increase existing machining center output.
Read MoreThe Part Is Longer Than The Lathe
Here is one custom machine builder’s system for producing a 40-foot part that has to be passed through the turning center and out the other side. INCLUDES VIDEO.
WatchFixturing Pull Clamps Precisely Locate Workpieces
Fixtureworks’ line of Imao pull clamps are said to feature an ergonomic design and precise, secure holding power. The clamps accurately locate workpieces using precision ground clamping pins and fixture-mounted clamp mechanisms, the company says.
Read MoreCold Clamping For Small, Delicate Parts
Icing plates use the adhesive power of ice to securely clamp parts of virtually limitless shapes and materials for milling and turning operations.
Read MoreA Deeply Holistic Approach
In its effort to streamline every step of the mold building process, this company has upgraded its deep-hole drilling capability with a new six-axis machine. A rotary table with magnetic workholding enhances this machine’s flexibility.
Read MoreHigh/Low Chucking
Northfield Precision announces the development of two methods of high/low chucking: “on the fly,” and “cycle interrupt. ” Using a proprietary valve system, delicate parts can be rough machined and finished in one chucking. The cycle starts with the jaws clamping at high pressure for roughing, then dropping down to low pressure for finishing.
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