At
MACH 2022, Hertfordshire-based
Roemheld UK Ltd will — for the first time in the UK — debut a modular, sensor-based system that digitalises zero-point clamping by enabling digital recording of its status (Hall 6, Stand 450). The event is taking place from 4-8 April at the NEC, Birmingham.
STARK.intelligence enables data on workpiece loading and unloading to be integrated directly into an automated manufacturing process. Information is also provided on the condition of the clamping equipment to facilitate its scheduled maintenance.
Each fixture is equipped with its own sensor box to measure position, temperature and pressure in real-time. A master unit receives data from several units and outputs the information to different devices via an IO-Link.
The devices can be the machine tool’s control screen, computers in the quality assurance department or the service engineer’s smartphone.
STARK.intelligence can be combined with various STARK zero-point clamping systems and may be retrofitted easily to machine tables and quick-release fixture plates. Due to the modular design, users can choose between individual components or a complete solution, which may include the integration of an RFID interface that automatically detects pallets and workpieces.
Also on show will be a range of compact bore clamps with a large clamping range for five-sided machining. The devices hold internally, exerting force both radially outwards and downwards against a support surface.
The new models enable safe location in bores from 5.2 to 13.7mm in diameter, so are suitable for clamping small workpieces. Bore size can be adjusted easily through interchangeable bushings while the clamping element remains in its fixture.
Worn bushings can be replaced within a few minutes, and the support height is easily adjustable to suit workpieces having clamping surfaces at different levels; and because it is possible to check if a workpiece is clamped or unclamped, correctly located, or if the clamping bolt is intact, the devices can also be used in automated applications.
Also being demonstrated will be a compact flat lever clamp designed for use on fixtures with low-pressure hydraulics (between 70 and 120 bar). This clamp, which complements the Roemheld series rated at up to 250 bar, has a double-acting hydraulic element that can be mounted in any orientation.
There are built-in and block-type varieties, as well as versions without a housing for installation in restricted spaces. With these flat clamping levers, even surfaces only a few millimetres above the clamping level can be machined.
Depending on the operating pressure and lever length, clamping forces of up to 33kN are possible; and as with the 250-bar versions in the series, the status and position of clamping can be pneumatically checked.
Roemheld will also display two models from its large range of machine vices. The Hilma VarioLine can be used vertically or horizontally and may be quickly adapted to different workpiece sizes, thanks to magnetically secured quick-change jaws that can be ‘exchanged in a single action’.
The other vice will be the Hilma MC-P, which is intended for securing parts during five-axis machining. It can grip on just 3mm of stock, reducing raw material costs and offering excellent accessibility to the workpiece while providing precise, stable work holding for completing first and second operations in a single clamping. The compact design enables collision-free tool paths and the use of short, standard tools.