INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Jaws offer centrifugal force and vibration compensation

Schunk says that its new hydraulic compensation jaws set a new benchmark for low-deformation workpiece clamping. According to the company, it is the first time that chuck jaws for compensating the workpiece clamping process have successfully been combined with centrifugal force compensation, vibration-damping characteristics and micron-precision concentricity.

The integrated oil chamber innovation and clamping technology is a central feature of the new hydraulic compensation jaws. Above this are two oscillating clamping elements for clamping rough or finished component workpieces. As the jaws individually adapt to the workpiece, form tolerances in castings, for example, are reliably compensated. Compared with conventional three-point clamping, the number of clamping points is doubled, which lowers workpiece deformation. Obtainable roundness is also increased.
At high speeds, the hydraulic clamping system automatically guarantees centrifugal force compensation, which ensures that the clamping force is always reliably maintained. In order to minimise workpiece deformation, the clamping force can be considerably reduced in comparison with previous solutions without restrictions on process reliability.
For maximum precision on the component, the concentricity can also be adjusted with micron-precision on the chuck jaws. Additionally, the vibration-damping characteristics of the oil chamber system benefit the surface quality of the workpiece, while tool life is increased.
For further information www.schunk.com

Workholding system improves productivity

When Chick Workholding launched its One-Lok clamping system seven years ago as an alternative to the conventional machine vice, the company made available more precise workpiece positioning and a time-saving ratchet mechanism to adjust the position of the moveable jaw quickly. New lightweight versions have now been unveiled, offering users additional benefits. Availability in the UK is through sole agent 1st Machine Tool Accessories.

The latest One-Lok comes in two sizes rather than one, 400 or 500 mm long, offering maximum gripping lengths of 180 and 280 mm respectively. Further improvements include a lowering of the clamp profile from 150 to 134 mm, which allows longer spindle travel in the Z axis and halves the unit’s weight for easier handling. With this in mind, an ergonomic hand grip has also been added at either end.
Sometimes, machinists turn a vice through 90° so that it lies transversely across the machine table. This strategy can bring the part closer to the operator, but has the disadvantage that there is no clearance for the handle. With the new One-Lok, workholding in this orientation has been made easier by using a ratchet handle.
The moveable jaw on One-Lok systems can be adjusted quickly and conveniently, as it can now be slid using one hand rather than two over the QwikSlide ratchets. A few turns of the handle move the jaw in the same direction over the last few millimetres to complete the clamping action. The existing BoltFast interface for the 152mm wide, interchangeable hard and stepped steel jaws and aluminium soft jaws, has been retained. A quarter turn of the locking screw is all that is required to exchange them, promoting productivity when machining small batches of components.
For further information www.1mta.com

Manipulate workpieces of up to 2000 kg

The new Centrick manipulator from Roemheld enables the tilting and turning of heavy workpieces up to 2000 kg in weight. Integral articulated arms can continuously rotate workpieces and tilt them up to 90°.

This latest addition to the Modulog range of assembly and handling technology can tilt and turn products of any shape. According to Roemheld, the manipulator is ergonomic, space saving and efficient. Unlike conventional tilting and turning fixtures, the Centrick moves a component close to its centre of gravity, so the working height remains more constant. A small swivel radius ensures high stability and, if the manipulator is moved, holding brakes maintain a stable assembly position.
The Centrick from Roemheld is quiet to operate, with very low power consumption. Moreover, the manipulator can be easily integrated into assembly lines and is compatible with Industry 4.0 assembly processes. The company says that times can be reduced for assembly and materials handling, while safety is increased and downtime cut.
For further information www.roemheld.com

New VP/MD announced at Proto Labs

Rapid prototyping specialist Proto Labs has named Bjoern Klaas as vice president and managing director of its European operations effective from 1 December 2017. Klaas will replace John Tumelty, who will facilitate a smooth transition until his retirement at the end of December.

Proto Labs launched its manufacturing services in the UK in 2005 and has since expanded to serve all of Europe with additional manufacturing operations in Germany and Finland. The company’s European region reported revenues of £50m for the 12 months ending 30 June 2017, representing growth of 20%.
For further information www.protolabs.co.uk

Increased business expected at ADIPEC

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), ADIPEC is one of the world’s leading oil and gas events. Taking place on 13-16 November, the event spans over 135,000 sq m and hosts more than 2000 exhibiting companies from 135 countries (25 country pavilions will be present).

Situated at a crossroads of east meets west, ADIPEC is the largest oil and gas exhibition and conference in Asia, Africa, Europe and the MENA region, attracting 100,000+ trade professionals across the world. As always MTI will be present at the show (Stand 121018), where it will be busy handing out copies of its latest issue to event visitors.
For further information www.adipec.com