Roemheld has developed a hydraulic compact clamp with a horizontal stroke that enables direct clamping in confined pockets, grooves and recesses. The new element addresses applications where conventional clamping solutions require additional machining features or complex set ups.

Notably, the clamp operates using patented kinematics. The clamping lever first moves horizontally towards the workpiece and then applies vertical clamping force. This motion sequence allows precise positioning within restricted spaces while maintaining repeat accuracy.

Manufacturers previously added temporary clamping points to components for similar tasks, removing them in later operations. The new compact clamp eliminates that additional effort and reduces process time.

Roemheld designed the element for castings, dies, moulds and fixtures that require clamping in narrow features. It supports multi-sided machining of aluminium and grey cast iron components.

The clamp is available in a plug-in version that simplifies installation. Users can select a standard clamping lever or a blank for custom adaptation to specific geometries. A quick-fix mechanism enables fast changeover between applications.

The double-acting hydraulic element delivers 6.5 kN clamping force at up to 220 bar, with an 8 mm horizontal stroke and 4 mm vertical clamping stroke. Clamping can occur at any point along the vertical stroke, supporting components with dimensional variation.

Roemheld offers the clamp with or without position monitoring, including variants with pneumatic clamping or unclamping control for automated environments.

“With this clamping element, we’re solving a problem that many manufacturing companies face,” says Volker Schlautmann, head of value stream at Roemheld.

More information www.roemheld.com

MAPAL has introduced the DirectCool option for its UNIQ hydraulic chuck range, adding decentralised cooling to improve process reliability in machining applications. The development responds to increasing demands for thermal stability and consistent performance in modern production.

MAPAL launched the UNIQ hydraulic chuck series in 2020 and has since expanded the portfolio to include UNIQ DReaM chucks for boring and reaming, and UNIQ Mill chucks for milling. The new DirectCool feature extends the capability of both systems.

DirectCool guides coolant along the tool shaft to the cutting edge through three internal channels. This targeted supply supports even temperature distribution, reduces thermal distortion and limits wear. It also improves chip evacuation, particularly in boring operations where chips can wrap around the tool. By stabilising the process at the cutting zone, the system helps maintain surface quality and reduce the risk of tool breakage.

The integration of DirectCool does not alter the external geometry or restrict tool selection. Users can continue to run existing tools, including those that lack internal cooling, without modifying established processes. The system does not require special shank grooves. MAPAL first presented DirectCool to the public at the last EMO exhibition in Hannover, Germany.

The option is available for UNIQ Mill chucks and HA and UNIQ DReaM chucks with 4.5° outer geometry in diameters from 6 to 32 mm. UNIQ hydraulic chucks share the same outer geometry as shrink chucks but feature a glossy surface and blue screw in the HSK collar for identification.

More information www.mapal.com