5-axis workholding

The rigid workholding product uses proven HSK tool interface technology to provide a secure, low interference, quick-change clamping arrangement that resists bending forces generated during metal cutting operations.

Designed for 5-axis machining applications but equally suited to use on 3- and 4-axis machines, the system comprises three parts – clamping head, workholder and workpiece. The head is supplied either as a manually or automatically operated HSK clamp, while the work holder consists of an HSK interface at the base and multiple options at the top for holding the workpiece, including flange clamps and side clamps.

The most efficient clamping system, however, is the dovetail interface. Its small clamping surface area allows enhanced tool access and its low profile maximises the machine tool's Z-axis travel. Workpieces up to 200mm square or diameter can be accommodated.

[caption id="attachment_41139" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Exchanging the work holder takes less than 10 seconds[/caption]

The final element is the workpiece to be machined, which in the case of the dovetail holder requires a slot to be pre-milled into the raw billet to match the holder profile. A solid carbide cutter is available specifically for this purpose. Additionally, pre-machined dovetailed EN3B (070M20) steel and HE30 (6082) aluminium blanks can be supplied in various sizes for immediate use.

The manual clamping head has a versatile flange that suits multiple mounting options. Available in HSK-A40, HSK-A63 and HSK-A100 sizes, it may be set up offline and the workholder can be exchanged within 10 seconds, minimising machine downtime.

For automated manufacturing processes, a hydraulically-actuated clamping head is available in the same HSK sizes, with seating detection and air-blow. The work holders have a standard profile to enable them to be handled by any general purpose robot arm.

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1st Machine Tool Accessories www.1mta.com