Product category:
Workholding - miscellaneous clamping systems, components
News Release from: WDS | Subject: Ball LockT mounting system
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 22 May 2003
Workpiece mounting system saves time
Needing only a few twists of an adjustable handle to give a combined positioning and clamping action, a workpiece mounting system reduces machine bed set up times without loosing accuracy.
The new Ball LockT mounting system from WDS can reduce machine bed set up times from an hour to 60 seconds or less without sacrificing accuracy Utilising a series of bushes and bearings, the system offers a combined positioning and clamping action with a few twists of an adjustable handle
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 17 May 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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With increased pressure throughout industry to maximise efficiency of production departments, WDS customers can now benefit through increased production and improved time management with the new Ball LockT machining mounts.
The mounting system is effectively a quick locking shank that doubles as a guiding dowel and securing bolt.
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By removing the need for locating dowels and fixture plate indicating, the mounts reduce attachment procedures from a three-step to one-step operation, enabling machine set up times to be cut by as much as an hour.
The new devices replace the four threaded attachment screws, traditionally used in the set up process, with separate shanks that have the same profile as the original bolts, but secure themselves via a series of locking ball bearings.
The Ball LockT Shanks are easily pushed by hand through the fixture plate into a recess machined into the subplate or machine bed.
When the plate has been located, turning one set screw on each bolt will create the necessary holding force by pushing a series of bearings into a tapered seat turned in the base plate bushings.
Traditional cap screws normally require ten full turns to provide the necessary force for secure fixture plates to machine beds or towers.
In comparison, the Ball LockT Shank from WDS offers up to 9,072kg of down force per unit and repeatable tolerances of +/-0127mm, all with just two turns of a set screw.
The system is equally effective for securing multiple cast components on one fixture plate for drilling or reaming, further reducing set up times and increasing operator efficiency.
The shanks are made of alloy steel and heat treated to 40-45Rc, withstanding temperatures up to 400degF.
WDS supplies eighteen different locating shanks, including imperial and metric sizes, two types of receiver bushings and two different liner bushings to suit individual requirements.
Additional aluminium fixture plates and keys are also available as well as replacement set screws and bearings.
The Ball LockT range forms part of the WDS catalogue, which contains over 10,000 fixtures, fittings as well as other standard parts.
All the new products being introduced are now in stock at WDS, enabling orders to be dispatched same day for next day delivery as standard. Request a free brochure from WDS ...
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