Following a recent partnership agreement, the full range of high-precision zero-point fixtures from Mate Precision Technologies is now available in the UK exclusively from work-holding and machining efficiency specialist Leader Chuck International.

Being one of the latest players to enter the zero-point fixture market, Mate Precision Technologies was all too aware of the need to bring significant advantages over the competition when it launched its next-generation Dyno range.Consisting of DynoGrip vices, DynoLock base plates and DynoMount tombstones, the ethos behind the range stems from Mate targeting manufacturing efficiencies within its own workshop. With areputation for producing high-quality punch-press and press-brake tooling for manufacturers across the globe, the company employs around 300 highly skilled staff at it manufacturing facility in Minnesota, USA. So the need for machining efficiency gains comes from worldwide competition.

Extensive trials of the previous generation zero-point systems, available from established suppliers, under real life production operations, highlighted a number of limitations that Mate addressed with its new products.

Leader Chuck’s managing director Mark Jones explains: “With Mate’s extensive knowledge of the high-quality tool steels and fine tolerances used to produce its tools for sheet metalworking, it’s only logical that the same materials and processes are used for the Dyno range of fixtures. It’s why the company offers a ‘zero wear out forever’ policy across the range with a 100% unconditional customer satisfaction guarantee.”

Mate DynoGrip self-centring vices, for example, shorten set-up time and reduce process variability. Two zero-point four-stud engagement patterns are available, 52 and 96 mm, which are compatible with other systems or can mount directly to the machine table via toe clamps or bolted through the body.
For further information www.leaderchuck.com

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