The range of Vero-S quick-change pallet modules from Newport Pagnell-based Schunk Intec Ltd (www.gb.schunk.com) has been further extended by the introduction of the company’s WDB basic, WDS staple and WDN direct-clamping modules.

These modules are suitable for use in the tool and mould-making industries, as well as other sectors where machine shops work with low-volume free-form parts featuring complex geometries and tight tolerances; and because no additional clamping devices are required with the new modules, there are no interfering contours.

The new WDB basic modular system has a height that starts at 80mm and increases in 10mm steps, while WDS staple modules are available in five heights — 30, 50, 80, 120 and 160mm — and can be actuated with a hexagon key.

The force and form-fit clamping connections lock the individual modules with pull-down forces up to 25,000N at an actuation torque of 50Nm.

Meanwhile, WDN direct-clamping modules are available in three versions that connect the clamping pillars with the workpiece via pneumatic actuation (at 6 bar) and a fixed Z-axis reference.

The system can also be manually or pneumatically actuated and feature an integrated compensating function in the Z direction.

This arrangement is used when deformation-free support of delicate workpieces is required. For ease of implementation, the system includes basic module versions for T-slot plates, grid plates and Vero-S clamping stations.

tandard fixed clamping pins without recess mount, cylindrical clamping pins and conical clamping-pin extensions are available as a workpiece interface.

Special clamping pins with floating pitch compensation in one or two axes (each ±1mm) can be used for compensating workpiece tolerances or thermal expansion.

Every interface uses taper centring that ensures a repeat accuracy of less than 0.005mm, while feed chamfers at the module interface allow quick joining of the clamping pillars.

The workpiece is clamped via spring force in a ‘self-locking and form-fit’ manner without the need for compressed air.

Workpieces remain safely clamped, even in the event of a sudden pressure drop in the air system. For maximum service life and process reliability, every functional part — such as base body or clamping slide — is made of hardened stainless steel.