Workholding Solutions for Improved Machining

Jergens (L-R) heavy duty vise, enhanced Quick-Loc pallet system, cast iron columns, a washdown tool and ZPS modules. Photo Credit: Jergens

Jergens has several new workholding products for improved precision machining, including tooling columns, a machine vise and pallet system.

The tooling columns are constructed of single-piece cast iron for maximum rigidity. These columns are said to open horizontal machining potential and serve as a solid basis for custom workholding to suit specific customer needs. Several new styles include square, cross and rectangular. Additionally, three mounting options are available — center pin, edge and ZPS — which are fully customizable. 

Another workholding solution is a 5″ Heavy-Duty Machine Vise made of stress-relieved ductile iron and flame hardened, which is said to provide long usable life and predictable performance. The company says it is more easily moved and relocated by the operator due to its relatively small size and weight, while ensuring secure part holding and tight tolerances from general machining to high production. Additions include hardened jaw plates and a Ball Lock fixture plate quick-change kit.

The Quick-Loc 2 (QL2) pallet system will replace the existing product line and features an improved design that is said to engage pull studs inside the receiver. QL2 has a hardened coating for long life and durability. The range is compatible with all existing top tooling. Quick Loc pallet systems are used for fixturing on horizontal, vertical and rotary operations. These low-profile adapters and pallets ensure repeatability of 0.0003″ and provide clamping forces of nearly 14,000 lbs.

Also included in these expansions are two ZPS installation choices for compact, light-duty applications. SP140, the smallest clamping module, and K02 pull studs utilize pneumatics and a mechanical spring in a small package. The combination offers quick-change solutions for vise or gripper jaws, electronic component manufacturing, packaging machines, medical technology and automation.

Jergens’ washdown tool is a simple device that provides 360 degrees of spray using coolant flow to reduce machine cleanup time after a cycle. The ball cleaner washes chips off exposed surfaces, cleaning the machine at scheduled intervals which helps support long machining cycles and lights out machining periods when no operator is present. The washdown tool goes into the tool changer just like any other tool.