Increase production and improve machining accuracy with new multi-hold speed-release clamps from WDS

Citation

(2002), "Increase production and improve machining accuracy with new multi-hold speed-release clamps from WDS", Assembly Automation, Vol. 22 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.2002.03322cad.005

Increase production and improve machining accuracy with new multi-hold speed-release clamps from WDS

WDS has introduced a new range of powerful double edge clamps that feature a simplified and extremely fast method of fixing and releasing multiple components on machine beds (see Plate 5). The range includes several different types of clamp aimed at providing a fast and flexible solution for clamping any item from complex machined shapes with high finished surfaces to rough cut billet and castings. Models are available with soft jaws for easier customisation, threaded jaws for applying specialist gripper and a useful positive pull down clamping action.

There are five models in the range, each one can be adjusted and secured using just one central fixing bolt to extend or retract a pair of sprung jaws. The jaws move in tandem to allow quicker fixing and easier releasing of multiple components. Measuring between 31mm and 67mm across at full expansion, all the clamps are extremely compact, providing maximum space on the machining bed for multiple components.

Plate 5 A new multi-hold speed-release clamp from WDS

The range can provide up to 9,000kg of holding force, providing complete stability for the work piece and ensuring high machining accuracy. The high clamping force also adds to the safety of machining operations, especially under pressurised working environments where machine tools are working at high speeds and feed rates. Hardened to 52 HRC (Hardness in Rockwell C), the heat-treated jaws come with a serrated contact surface, providing excellent clamping for rough-cut stock and castings.

As part of the range, WDS has introduced a "twin wedge" clamp that firmly grips the components to be machined and simultaneously pulls the work pieces down against the guide frames. Standard low profile, single wedge clamps are also available with smooth jaws that allow for three-directional machining. The units can come in sizes as small as 27mm across, which can still provide up to 1,500kg of holding force. Their small size and robust design allows for quick set-up times and increased production due to greater numbers of components on automated machining beds.

For awkward component shapes and softer materials such as brass, aluminium and plastic, there is the soft jaw clamp. Available with smooth jaws that are hardened to HRC 30-34, the soft jaw model has been designed for custom machining of surfaces to suit the geometry of the work piece and allows a variety of different components to be held on the same machine bed.

In order to fix a broad range of materials on the same bed, a double-edged clamp with tapped jaws can be supplied that accommodates any custom holding pad without needing to permanently alter the main fitting. Combinations of odd shapes or materials can also be quickly secured and released by using the double-edged clamp with ball bearing gripper. Working on the same principle, the ball bearing gripper allows for precision holding and features the same cross-wedge construction as other models, allowing for firm locking in every direction.

Enquiries: Peter Heselton, Marketing Manager, WDS, Richardshaw Road, Grangefield Industrial Estate, Pudsey, Leeds LS28 6LE, UK. Tel. +44 (0) 113 2909852; Fax: +44 (0) 845 6011173; E-mail: pheselton@wdsltd.co.uk