The quick loading and flexible holding of components is essential in tool and die making, as tool makers must be able to laser weld, polish, assemble and adjust parts so that they fit together properly, with maximum flexibility and efficiency.

With magnetic clamping balls from Norelem, rapid clamping and releasing is now possible.

Available in four different sizes with magnetic faces from 80 to 160mm in diameter, these units clamp workpieces using a permanent magnet; this has a nominal magnetic force of up to 100N/cm² and can be switched on and off with a hexagonal key.

When the key is rotated 120deg, the magnet’s force is fully realised; a partial clamping force is also possible, so that parts can be easily positioned.

Norelem CEO Marcus Schneck said: “Efficiency and increased productivity are the name of the game in engineering; with our new range of magnetic clamping balls, engineers can speed up their machining and tooling processes.

With the simple turn of a key, workpieces can be adjusted quickly, providing an unobstructed surface for the engineering task at hand.”

The magnetic clamping balls can swivel up to 90deg, depending on the workpiece geometry and weight.

To ensure a high-quality finish, the magnetic face has a fine 1.5mm ‘poling’ and is mounted in an anodised aluminium globe that lays in a leather-lined chemically nickel-plated steel ring.

Norelem — a manufacturer and supplier of flexible standard parts and components for mechanical engineering — offers some 43,000 products relating to standard machinery and operating elements, as well as automation components; 98% of all parts are available from stock.

Details of Norelem in the UK can be found at the Web site (www.norelem.co.uk/gb/en/Home.html ).