System Automates Workholding Change-Overs

Positrol’s Automation Chuck Change system enables an industrial robot to fully automate workholding changeovers. This is accomplished without the need for indicating in the chuck before beginning machining operations. The system has been designed to provide a quick-change solution for chuck mounting. It also includes support for a power-actuated drawbar without sacrificing rigidity. When paired with a robot, the system operates as a fully automated cell where the robot not only loads and unloads parts but also performs complete workholding changeovers without manual intervention. Through implementation of quick connects for both the chuck and the drawbar, multiple operations can be run across the same spindle.

The system can be installed on lathes, mills, balancers and gear equipment. It accommodates any drawbar and most common machine spindle sizes. Repeatability accuracy for the X, Y and Z axes are within 0.0001" TIR and an angular repeatability within ±3 arc seconds, the company says. Sealed to account for chips and other contamination, the system is designed for low maintenance, faster changeovers and fully automated machining capabilities.