Pallet changer zeros in on productivity and accuracy

Building upon the company’s existing comprehensive range of zero-point clamping systems, Zimmer Group is expanding the series with the launch of its new pallet-changer technology. In addition to changing pallets in machine tools, this system also opens up numerous other applications, such as the handling of components using robots while maintaining high levels of repeatability.

The slim design and low set-up profile of the clamping plate and clamping pallets, allow both close-proximity pallet loading on the machine table and optimum use of the space within the machine. High clamping forces create arigid system, while the retaining forces enable high torque levels, together with a high-precision connection between the robot and the clamping plate to make the handling of heavier pallets, in particular, easier and safer.

The structural design of the pallet changer means that system clamping takes place without the need for pneumatic pressure. However, it is possible to increase the clamping forces further by using Zimmer’s Plus connection, which provides pneumatic assistance. In addition to four rotation locks for pallet coupling, the system features an integrated blow-out or cleaning function that prevents dirt or liquid from collecting in the pin holder, contact surface and rotation locks.

Notably, the pallet coupling is used as a pallet interface for the product and creates the connection to the clamping pallet. The rotation lock enables backlash-free positioning of the bearings when joining with the product, whilesensors for piston position and clamping position verify safe operation. All functions are controllable directly via the pneumatic connections on the sides. There is also the option to control the unit by means of alternative connections on the bottom of the product.
For further information www.zimmer-group.com

F1 team installs four SLA 3D printers

3D Systems is reporting that the BWT Alpine F1 Team has purchased four SLA 750 3D-printing systems to accelerate innovation and speed to track. Based at Enstone in Oxfordshire, the team made the decision to purchase the systems after it extensively tested the product in its beta phase. BWT Alpine F1 Team is currently using the SLA 750 systems and 3D Systems’ Accura Composite PIV material to build models for wind tunnel testing, including complex aerodynamic parts with pressure tappings, as well as small composite tools and high-temperature bonding jigs.

“We are very impressed with the depth of precision engineering that went into the development of 3D Systems’ SLA 750,” says Ben Mallock, deputy head of aerodynamics, BWT Alpine F1 Team. “We have a long-standing technical partnership with 3D Systems. With the SLA 750 we achieved the best part quality we’ve seen so far in the market with considerably improved productivity.Today we’re able to produce 25,000 additively manufactured parts each year.”
For further information www.3dsystems.com

Ergonomic bicycle assembly boosts productivity

At Rose Bikes in Bocholt, 120 different bicycle and e-bike models weighing between 5 and 28 kg are ergonomically manufactured on six flow lines with the help of flexible Bike Promobil assembly carts produced by Roemheld. The result of a joint development project between the two German companies, the cart is now available worldwide, including in the UKand Ireland through Roemheld UK.

A shortage of potential employees in the Bocholt area, near the Dutch border, prompted family-run Rose to look for a production solution to meet increasing demand for its products. Instead of producing on a conveyor belt, as is the case with other bicycle manufacturers, Rose chose the flow line option when it opened its new factory in 2020.

Stefan Strauss, production manager at Rose, says: “The conveyor belt is too inflexible and tends to stress employees. Flow line production is much more operator friendly, so it’s easier to find new staff and train them. Work should be fun. We don’t have anyone watching with a stopwatch and staff take turns at different stations to maintain their interest.”

Strauss originally wanted to design and build an assembly aid himself, but did not have enough time. So in 2020, Roemheld offered an early version of the cart, but it was too big, heavy, inflexible and expensive. A development partnership took shape to address these issues. One elegant idea was to hold the bike not by gripping on the frame but by placing an insert into the seat tube. Adapter sleeves accommodate different tube diameters on the various bike models, making the clamping process universal across the whole range. Rose Bikes now has 130 Bike Promobil assembly carts from Roemheld.
For further information www.roemheld.co.uk

Ceratizit delivers productivity gains for Bedford CNC

Ceratizit UK & Ireland’s technical sales and applications teams work in partnership with customers to ensure maximum productivity, whether that is with the latest in cutting tool technology, or with advice on manufacturing efficiency. The latter was the case when Bedford CNC was looking to improve throughput of some aluminium blocks.

While the productivity of these blocks was already good, machining four per cycle using two Ceratizit ZSG 4 vices on a four-axis machining centre, a suggestion by Ceratizit would double throughput and, by default, reduce manufacturing costs.

“When Ceratizitrecommended manufacturing a bespoke fixture that would accommodate four ZSG Mini vices, with each vice holding two components, it was an easy decision to make, as we can now produce twice as many parts in a single cycle, with reduced set-up time and costs,” says Andy Soos, managing director and owner at Bedford CNC.

Ceratizit designed and manufactured the fixture in-house at its technical centre in Sheffield, where the applications team has a range of CADCAM suites and an array of machine tools on which to produce projects such as this, or simply to provide customer training. From concept to manufacture, Ceratizit managed thewhole fixture project in-house with the completed fixture available within two-weeks of order placement.

“Having this capability adds another level of service that we can offer to customers, where we are able to develop manufacturing solutions quickly to assist them as they look to increase efficiency and profitability,” says Ceratizit technical sales engineer Nev Frisby. “When I put the idea to Andy at Bedford CNC, his reaction was how soon can I have it?To turn it around in such a short space of time was a major advantage to him.”
For further information www.ceratizit.com

Dugard enhances presence in Scotland

Like much of Europe, the UK is in the midst of a fuel crisis that is pushing the UK government to source more fuel from the North Sea, as well as driving investment in the renewables industry. To capitalise upon this, machine tool supplier Dugard has employed Steven McBride as its new area sales manager in Scotland and northeast England.Joining the company in February, McBride is relishing the challenge of introducing the range of Ibarmia, SMEC, Kitamura and Hanwha machine tools that are available in the UK from Dugard.

Commenting upon the addition of McBride to the Dugard team, sales director Colin Thomson says: “Steven has an excellent track record in technical sales, which will put him in good stead for his future at Dugard. Additionally, as a highly-skilled maintenance and sales engineer, Steven’s fundamental knowledge and understanding will be extremely beneficial to customers of Dugard in Scotland.”
For further information www.dugard.com