Planning
Steps 1-13
Step 1:
Step 5: (Optional) Thanks to the two-stage design of VektorFlo ® hydraulic power sources, the low-pressure high-flow first stage will move clamping devices into position around the workpiece and generate sufficient force to settle the workpiece against fixture stops before high pressure clamping forces are generated. Additionally, the nature of the fixture itself will ensure that the part is located closely enough to eliminate the need for positioning devices as a separate fixture element. However, consideration should be given to the need to overcome weight and positioning friction. Step 6: After you have determined the machine cutting forces, assess the clamping force required to hold the workpiece. Step 7: Determine where clamps should contact the part to hold or support it securely and avoid interference with machine operations. If clamps cannot be located to avoid interference with manufacturing operations, it will be necessary to use an external control device to move the clamps out of the way during the manufacturing sequence. This will require additional valves to control the offending devices separately. Step 8: Determine the type and number of workholding devices you need based on the total clamping force required and clamping positions you have selected. Step 9: T o help determine the capacity of the power source, you will need the total oil displacement requirements for the devices you have selected. Then choose a power source with equal or greater capacity and determine if it operates the system within your clamping time constraints by completing the “Calculate the Approximate Clamping Time of a Fixture” worksheet. Step 10: Select valves and other control components to accomplish the sequence of operations you outlined in Step 2. See the valve sections of this catalog for guidance.
Step 11:
A-2
First, determine the nature of the operation to be performed, the number of parts to be processed per cycle and whether operations are performed on more than one surface of each part. Also determine the time that should be allowed for part loading, unloading and clamping. Consult your machine tool file to determine the available work space on the machine table, bed, or other surface, as applicable. Be sure that the space available will accommodate the part or quantity of parts to be processed according to your manufacturing workflow. If space is not available, revise your plan. In the initial phases of system planning, include adequate measures and devices to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. For more information, see the Safety section on the back inside cover of this catalog. Step 2: Prepare an outline of the sequence of events that are taking place during the manufacturing cycle. This will assist you in determining the number of sequence valves that you might need and any external control (such as a tie-in with machine controls) that your application may require. Step 3: Determine the cutting forces generated in the machining process and note the direction that these forces tend to act on the workpiece. It is recommended that cutter forces be calculated as a precaution to ensure that workholding devices are sized and positioned to provide adequate holding. The operation manuals of many machine tools contain tables that list machining forces or simple formulas for calculating these forces. If you are planning a retrofit of a manual clamping system, the torque values of your current application may be helpful in determining how much clamp force you are already using. If you can’t find the information, give us a call. We’ll be glad to get you started. Step 4: Plan your fixture(s) with positive fixed stops to resist the majority of cutting forces and to ensure correct location of the workpiece using the primary part locating features.
Select appropriate safety control mechanisms for your fixture. All VektorFlo ® electrical power modules have a hydraulic pressure switch as standard equipment to ensure that consistent forces are maintained at all times. However, when a power source is used to power several separate individual systems, each system should also have its own pressure monitor. Step 12: Finally, select the plumbing components required to connect the power source to the valves and devices. Simply review your system specifications and layout to determine what you need in terms of fittings, sizes and lengths. Step 13: Call us for help. Our application engineers do not design fixtures. Their job is to help you use hydraulic clamps successfully. Whether you are retrofitting existing fixtures, need a concept idea for clamping a new part or want a quick review of your design, we are here to help. Call 800-992-0236 (Toll Free) Or E-mail us at sales@vektek.com for everything you need in power clamping. Discover how easy, economical and efficient power clamping can be — with one toll free call. We’ll be glad to answer your questions, provide concepts or advice and give you a quote. Please visit us at www.vektek.com to download our most current CAD files.
© Vektek, January 2023
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