A new, high-precision, electrically actuated vice for securing workpieces on vertical, horizontal, five-axis and mill-turn machining centres, has been introduced by Hertfordshire-based Roemheld UK. Operating functions of the Hilma AS 125 E can be integrated into the machine CNC system or regulated via a separate control.

The Industry 4.0-compatible vice is equipped for automatic jaw change, making it ideal for unattended machining involving robotic load and unload of components, as is often found in series production environments. Entire families of components can be manufactured without manual intervention. The AS 125 E lowers operating costs by eliminating the need for hydraulics or pneumatics and by retaining the holding force without the power supply connected, thanks to the self-locking mechanical spindle.

The motor precisely adjusts the tightening torque, so thin-wall components and other delicate workpieces can be held without damage. The vice is also suitable for applications where the risk of contamination by hydraulic oil must be avoided.

Guido Born, the product manager in Germany responsible for the launch, said: “Beta tests in production applications have shown that the electric vice lends itself well to accurate retention of parts, as the pressure may be finely controlled to suit the workpiece material and geometry. The automatic jaw change has been particularly impressive. One user told us that the system paid for itself quickly and plans further investments.

“Electromechanical designs are now being developed for other proven clamping systems in the Roemheld range and will be released in the near future. Additionally, we are planning further innovations such as using sensors in our hydraulic workholding systems to enable determination of clamping force.”