New Heavy-duty Pneumatic Flex Locator for Precise Positioning
Fixtureworks®, a leading North American manufacturer and supplier of clamps, fixturing accessories, machine tool components, and rollers and bumpers, has introduced a new lineup of heavy-duty flex locators along with associated pins and jaws. Flex locators are locating elements used for changing various attachments and components in both small and large fixtures. They provide locating and clamping in a single operation and are designed for quick-change applications. These flex clamping locators locate and fasten without the use of tools.
The heavy-duty pneumatic flex locators, identified as AMWHF, are a zero-point system that enables consistent and highly precise positioning. They are made from steel with a black oxide finish and provide an accuracy of ±0.005. The clamping force is 900/1910 lb. without air supply and can be increased up to 2698/5845 lb. with the turbo function. This positioning system is suited for quick-change machining operations. The modules have an overall diameter of 105 or 140 mm. Each module clamps the plate with spring force, which can be boosted by supplying air to the turbo port. Supplying air to the unclamping port opens the module, and releasing air allows the spring to hold the clamping pin for clamping.
The new flex locators can also function as ID and OD clamps by attaching a jaw. The OD jaw (AMWHF-1) and the ID jaw (AMWHF-2) each have diameters of 120 and 160 mm, making the system a multifunctional solution. Workpiece locating repeatability is ±0.03, while jaw locating repeatability is ±0.02. When used as an OD or ID clamp, the module retracts the pin, available in 25 and 43 mm lengths and made from steel, to grip and hold the outer or inner circumference of the workpiece. The system also supports pneumatic form clamping, where the jaw can be machined to match the workpiece shape. This locator is designed for multiple applications to simplify operations.
Pneumatic clamping locators are ideal for frequent changeovers in automated machinery. They enable quick clamping and positioning with excellent repeatability, which reduces setup time for plates, tooling, and fixtures. Pneumatic clamping increases clamping force, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications. These automated clamping locators provide a fast, simple, and secure changeover solution to improve productivity.
In addition to heavy-duty flex locators, Fixtureworks offers a wide range of components, including quick-change flex locators, shaft locking clamps, pneumatic clamping fasteners, quick-action spring plunger clamps, handles and levers, knobs and grips, equipment handles, hand wheels and cranks, hinges and latches, leveling supports, industrial rubber bumpers, stops and wheels, fixture clamps, clamping locating systems, work positioning elements, vises, grippers, and mechanical linear actuators.
