In recent years, the benefits of high-pressure through-coolant have become the norm for users of sliding-head turning centres.

However, the issue for machine shops is the non-productive time taken to set up the high-pressure copper coolant pipe — and the complexity of the task; it is not easy in the compact work envelope typical of these machines; and if tools and tooling configurations tools are changed, the process starts over again.

These issues are said to be eliminated by the new HEB Systemtechnik MiniPlug from the Baldock-based sliding-head specialist Floyd Automatic Tooling Ltd (www.floydautomatic.co.uk).

In the event of a tool change on a sliding-head machine, the operator must change the tool or insert, and the respective tool-holder has to be detached — often with difficulty — from the through-coolant distribution system.

With the new HEB MiniPlug, a high-pressure quick connector system eliminates time-consuming tool changeovers and the respective changing of the high-pressure hoses; instead of changing the connection in an overcrowded and difficult-to-access work envelope, the HEB MiniPlug system allows end users to simply plug in the flexible braided hoses.

Suitable for coolant pressures up to 200 bar, the stainless-steel connectors and braided hoses are robust, flexible and corrosion-resistant.

The HEB MiniPlug is available with a coupling and seal plug, manifolds, hose sets, MiniPlug jacks and adaptors. The manifolds and plugs are particularly compact to ensure connection to the smallest of tool-holders, while eliminating interference with the cutting tool and subsequent tools in block or platen tool configurations.

The HEB MiniPlug is available in three sizes to suit all modern HPC adaptors and machine configurations, with the latest HEB MiniPlug 1 being the smallest of the family (with M5 adaptors and plugs).

Complete HEB MiniPlug sets can be bought; they include a choice of straight and angled seal plugs, as well as the option of 100, 200 or 300mm braided hoses — or custom-made lengths.