Vacuum workholding provides security

Vacuum pallet change workholder unit combines the positive mechanical security of traditional jigs and vices with the change speed associated with magnetic holding equipment.

The Vacmagic pallet change workholder unit from Lenzini Engineering combines the positive mechanical security of traditional jigs and vices with the change speed associated with magnetic holding equipment.

However, Vacmagic uses vacuum which generates a hold-down force of at least 700kgf on a standard 300 x 300mm square model.

More surprisingly, this vacuum is uniquely achieved using only a normal airline supply, without the need for problematic vacuum pumps.

It is suitable for use on milling, drilling and grinding operations etc, and is compatible with most modern machine shop equipment including both horizontal and vertical machining centres.

Because the Vacmagic uses interchangeable pallets, changeover times between jobs are considerably reduced, showing appreciable benefits on production times and operating efficiency.

Coupled with this is the fact that both ferrous and non-ferrous workpieces can be machined, including aluminium, plastics and even thin-walled fragile components.

This versatility would be particularly useful to busy machine shops or subcontractors involved with multiple set-ups necessitated by changing production requirements.

The Vacmagic (patent applied for) is supplied as standard with two top plates or pallets which are located by dowels, together with the necessary keyway fixings for machine beds.

A simple airline connection only (6 to 10 bar) is required, as the vacuum is achieved when compressed air passed through a valve is accelerated to approximately 600 miles/h.

This results in air between the Vacmagic and the top plate being evacuated, with a vacuum maintained by a captive rubber seal between the two surfaces.

Jigs or vices fitted to the top plate, together with workpieces, are held firmly and securely in position.

Removal or changing of the top plate/pallet is as simple as switching off the air line supply.

A safety feature is incorporated, however, which stops all machining activity in the event of inadvertent loss of vacuum.

The standard 300mm square Vacmagic unit has proved to be adequate for most machining operations.

During milling operations high metal removal rates have been safely maintained at increased levels of speed, feed and depth of cut.

This was achieved with excellent surface finish and flatness and without signs of vibration or instability.

However, larger/smaller Vacmagic units could be manufactured if required, or oversize top plates provided for use with the standard Units where larger workpieces need to be supported.

A vacuum chuck unit is also available for use on manual milling and grinding machines etc This features an adaptable 'O' ring sealing arrangement, suitable for use with a conventional magnetic chuck, providing a quick-change pallet facility.

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