Kurt Workholding has introduced the PFA620 five-axis pneumatic vice, an air-actuated, self-centring work-holding solution designed to improve productivity, accuracy and repeatability in modern five-axis machining environments.

Developed for automation as well as manual operation, the compact PFA620 was recently demonstrated as part of a fully automated lights-out machining cell at the Yamazen open house in Elk Grove, Illinois. Mounted on a Brother Speedio U500Xd2 machining centre with an integrated robot, the system automatically loaded raw material and removed finished components, enabling extended unattended production.

“The automated access door allows the robot to move parts in and out of the machine without an operator present,” explains Andrew Justin, sales engineer at Kurt Workholding. “The PFA620 mounts seamlessly to any five-axis platter and can be integrated with a rotary union so all pneumatic connections are contained within the base, eliminating exposed air lines while maintaining full access to the workpiece.”

Designed to accommodate a wide range of component sizes, the vice combines manual full-stroke adjustment with a 6.35 mm pneumatic stroke to deliver consistent clamping force and repeatable positioning. This helps reduce set-up times and supports efficient changeovers in both manual and automated production environments.

The PFA620 can be configured as a standalone unit or in multi-vice arrangements, making it suitable for everything from single-machine applications to high-density automated machining cells. It also features tool-free, quick-change jaws, with serrated and dovetail options available for different work-holding requirements.

Delivering up to 8.9 kN of clamping force from a 7.5 bar shop air supply, the PFA620 provides the rigidity required for demanding five-axis machining while its compact design offers good access for efficient five-sided component machining.More information www.kurtworkholding.com