There are a vast number of clamp types. Some are bulky, while others are discrete. The key is finding ones that are accurate and produce repeatable actions.
Did you know that hydraulic clamps are superior to other clamps?
This article will cover how hydraulic clamps improve productivity. We’ll also share how hydraulic clamps work and why you need them.
Improved Productivity
Hydraulic clamp systems improve productivity and reduce cycle times. Most workloads need equipment changes with bolts tightened to the proper torque. But with hydraulic clamps, you place the item in the fixture and push a button or flip a switch.
The hydraulic clamp gives you the exact right amount of working hold. This pressure is consistent and applies an even amount of pressure, giving you a precise amount of hold, unlike a manual clamp.
Productivity means creating a reliable and repeatable process. When production elements are accurate and in place, you gain efficiency. One of the culprits of poor productivity is the misalignment of a component held by a manual clamp.
Hydraulic clamping systems allow you to position clamps in a precise manner.
The clamps also provide the exact proper movement and force. This maximizes efficiencies and is predictable in determining your manufacturing capacity.
Well-defined specifications drive the manufacturing configuration and its installation.
Selecting a suitable clamp for your application reduces future calibration delays. It also reduces downtime and provides a great ROI. The proper configuration also reduces maintenance time.
Hydraulic Clamp Manufacturers
Manufacturers for hydraulic clamps include:
- Enerpac
- Roamheld
- Fabco-Air
- Steel-Smith
- AMF
- Clamptek
- SPX
- Merkle
- Monroe
- Olmec
- Berg
- Lupold
- Vektek
- Kurt Manufacturing
- Hydrokomp
- Guthle
- Jergens
Hydraulic Clamp System
Hydraulic clamping systems are more than the sum of their parts. Selecting the right components for your environment is critical to your productivity. In addition, the materials, fabrication process, and any machining work affect the configuration.
The fabrication process impacts the clamps needed; for instance, an articulating arm or the stroke length factors into the process. This may also affect your power source and safety needs.
Materials also factor into the original build. The rigidity and size of the material affect the clamping position and force. Even the tensile strength may need a certain level of calculated precision in the design.
How Hydraulic Clamps Work
There are three basic types of hydraulic hold-down clamps: single-acting, double-acting, and swing cylinders.
Single-Acting Cylinders
This hydraulic device works in one direction. First, the hydraulic fluid pushes the piston rod. Then, another force returns it to the start position. These use little oil and need less valving and plumbing.
The retraction speed is much slower than the push.
Double-Acting Cylinders
This hydraulic device works in two directions. First hydraulic power moves the piston rod in both directions for faster movement, thus better controlling the clamp release.
Swing Cylinders
The swing stroke involves a piston and an attached arm that rotates 90º for placement. There is a second stroke for clamping. Once released, the clamp arm raises back out of the way for workpiece loading.
Designing Your Hydraulic Clamping System
Hydraulic clamps with suitable characteristics help you save time and boost productivity. The selection process looks at cylinder types, environment, fabrication process, and materials.
Kor-Pak can examine your needs and resources. Then we can give you a long-term solution with a great ROI. So contact us today to open a helpful discussion that will drive your productivity.