Planning
Frequently Asked Questions
I need some type of retractable locator. After my part is loaded, I want it to "disappear." Do you have anything to do this? Block pull cylinders or any double acting cylinder may be used in this way. If a highly precise location is required, please be sure to use a guide bushing to provide more precise location. How do I read my gauge and what does it mean? First, release all pressure on the system. Check the gauge for proper operation. Check to be sure that the gauge is returning to "zero." Pressurize the system and read the gauge. The current reading from the gauge indicates the pressure your clamping system operates at when clamped unless there is a pressure limited circuit branch. (The entire system equalizes at this pressure and ∆ P is negligible when under static clamping conditions.) I need a clamp just like your 41-5011-11 except it needs a 150 mm long rod. Can you help me? Maybe. We do entertain specials from time to time. Please ask us. We often find that "special" requests coincide with our ongoing new product development. If you have a special need, it is worth asking. We may decide to do your special as a development project. We may not be able to produce it (actually you may not want it) because of cost. It may be something we have done before and will be relatively easy. The danger involved in using "specials" is that we do not stock replacements on custom parts. When your machine crashes (when, not if) and you need a rush spare, custom parts have to be made from scratch. You will need to order spares at the time of the original order. The cost of a single replacement on a complicated special can often be 5-10 times the cost paid in the beginning. A little foresight will be very beneficial if you must have a special.
What about using seals made of Viton ® ? Seals made of fluorocarbon, such as Viton ® , can be a good answer for high heat applications, up to 178°C; however, fluid type is also important. It may be acceptable in most fluids at lower pressures, but fluorocarbon is not a universal remedy for all fluid problems. There are other acceptable seal compounds for use in water-glycol and other unusual fluids. Our staff can help direct you to a seal that is best suited to perform in your application. Because seals made of fluorocarbon may work in your application, we offer this as an option on many of our cylinders; call for details. How hot is too hot to run hydraulic fluid? Anything above 177°C is considered too hot for most hydraulic fluids and seals. Our standard seals are rated to operate at temperatures from 4°C to 71°C. Even seals made of Viton ® (fluorocarbon) are not recommended above 177°C. For advice on high heat applications, I have my cylinder hooked up to a pump. It extended but won’t retract. What have I done wrong? Is there a directional control valve in the circuit? If not, one is required. Is the cylinder single or double acting? Can you provide a schematic or simple hand sketch for us to troubleshoot? We are glad to help. I want to run my clamps on air. I really don’t need much force. Since these cylinders are being used to position workpieces, is it OK to use air? Some of our cylinders (but not work supports) can be run on air, others may be adapted. If air will provide adequate force and you are happy, so are we. In some cases straight line cylinders and work supports have been run successfully using high pressure gas. Swing clamps may not be used on high pressure gas. Please call our factory for information on our pneumatic clamping line, specifically designed for workholding with shop air (available in inch measures only). please contact Vektek’s Engineering Department who stand ready to help.
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If you have questions you’d like answered, call, write, fax or e-mail us. We would be glad to help you use VektorFlo ® products more effectively. +1- 913-365-1045 1334 East 6th Avenue Emporia, KS 66801 USA Fax: 1-816-364-0471 internationalsales@vektek.com
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