Photo credit: HWR Workholding USA
HWR Workholding USA has launched a pair of new products designed to further support manufacturers seeking efficient and reliable automation systems. The INOFlex VF-A hydraulic pneumatic coupler (at left in photo) simplifies integration of SOLIDLine modular zero-point workholding with an existing pneumatic system.
Developed with automation in mind, the INOFlex VF-A 4-jaw chuck features hydraulic actuation that allows workpieces to be changed more quickly and enables a fully automated process. Like all INOFlex chucks, the VF-A incorporates patented compensating technology that lets each pair of jaws more independently of the other. This provides automatic centering of workpieces of all sizes, allowing shops to quickly shift between circular, rectangular and asymmetrical parts.
The SOLIDPoint pneumatic coupler (at right in photo) offers a simple, direct way to integrate the SOLIDLine family of modular zero-point workholding with a shop’s existing pneumatic system. While many manufacturers are already using the platform’s vises, risers and pyramids with palletized processing, the Pneumatic Coupler now provides the means to load and unload workpieces from vises via robotic automation.
“When manufacturers are facing uncertainty, flexible automation can be one of the most powerful tools at their disposal,” says Marcus Saur, VP of Operations at HWR Workholding USA. “We’ve seen an increasing number of customers looking for ways to boost throughput without increasing headcount or floorspace. Both of these new products support the automation needed to make that happen.”
The company is best known for its zero-point workholding system for milling applications and patented self-centering compensating chucks for turning applications. HWR partners closely with machine tool builders and automation providers to develop solutions that are easily integrated into advanced manufacturing operations.