Vacuum Clamping
Innovative vacuum clamping technology from Schmalz guarantees efficient production processes for CNC machining centres in the wood and plastics industry.
Schmalz clamping systems are not only fitted as original equipment by world leading CNC machine centre manufacturers, they are also adapted to fit existing machines.
Vacuum Clamping technology can be divided into (4) main categories of CNC table types:
1. Console Tables
Console Tables are characterised by a machine bed with a number of cross-rails that can slide along the length of the table. The vacuum clamping blocks can slide along the length of the rail. Another name for this type of machine is the “Point-to-Point” CNC Machine.
2. Grid Tables
Grid Tables are typically a smooth table surface with a regular criss-cross groove pattern milled into the working surface. The groove grid varies in pitch and dimensions depending on the manufacturer of the CNC machine. At regular intervals an access port is placed into a groove junction, to gain access to the vacuum distribution beneath the table. Another name for this is a “Nesting Table”.
3. Smooth Tables
Smooth Tables are a flat and smooth table that have valve fittings along the front length of the table, which the vacuum clamping blocks are connected to via vacuum hoses and manually operated shut-off valves.
4. Innospann Systems
Innospann is a new design that can be used for all of the other types of tables. It utilises a common design of vacuum block base that couples to different top pad sizes and heights. The modular design allows many combinations of components which can be used to integrate with existing systems or upgrade completely.
Schmalz clamping systems are not only fitted as original equipment by world leading CNC machine centre manufacturers, they are also adapted to fit existing machines.
Vacuum Clamping technology can be divided into (4) main categories of CNC table types:
1. Console Tables
Console Tables are characterised by a machine bed with a number of cross-rails that can slide along the length of the table. The vacuum clamping blocks can slide along the length of the rail. Another name for this type of machine is the “Point-to-Point” CNC Machine.
2. Grid Tables
Grid Tables are typically a smooth table surface with a regular criss-cross groove pattern milled into the working surface. The groove grid varies in pitch and dimensions depending on the manufacturer of the CNC machine. At regular intervals an access port is placed into a groove junction, to gain access to the vacuum distribution beneath the table. Another name for this is a “Nesting Table”.
3. Smooth Tables
Smooth Tables are a flat and smooth table that have valve fittings along the front length of the table, which the vacuum clamping blocks are connected to via vacuum hoses and manually operated shut-off valves.
4. Innospann Systems
Innospann is a new design that can be used for all of the other types of tables. It utilises a common design of vacuum block base that couples to different top pad sizes and heights. The modular design allows many combinations of components which can be used to integrate with existing systems or upgrade completely.
1) Console Tables
VC-K1-50
- Vacuum clamping system VC-K1 for CNC machines with single-circuit console system.
- Working height: 50mm
- Vacuum block fixed in position with mechanical clamps to prevent them from moving.
- The workpiece and the vacuum blocks are then securely and precisely clamped by the vacuum.
VC-K2-50
- Vacuum clamping system VC-K2 for CNC machines with two-circuit console system.
- Working height: 50mm
- First vacuum circuit clamps block securely on to console.
- Second vacuum circuit clamps the workpiece securely and precisely on to the vacuum blocks.
VC-K2-100
- Vacuum clamping system VC-K2 for CNC machines with two-circuit console system.
- Working height: 100mm
- First vacuum circuit clamps block securely on to console.
- Second vacuum circuit then clamps the workpiece securely and precisely on to the vacuum blocks.
VC-B
- Vacuum clamping system VC-B can be retro-fitted to the suction-pad mountings of CNC machines made by an Italian manufacturer.
- Working heights available: h=29mm, h=48mm, h=74mm
- The workpiece and the suction blocks are clamped securely and precisely by the vacuum.
VC-S
- Vacuum clamping system VC-S can be mounted on the consoles of CNC machines made by an Italian manufacturer.
- The suction blocks are rigidly fixed with the aid of the console to prevent moving.
- The workpiece is clamped securely and precisely by the vacuum.
2) Grid Tables
Grid Tables
- Vacuum Blocks that fit directly on to grid tables.
- Solutions available for CNC machines with grid spacings of 30×30, 40×40, 50×50, or 75×50 mm.
- Base is placed directly in the existing slots and equipped with the necessary suction cups to suit the workpiece.
3) Smooth Tables
VC-G
- Vacuum clamping system VC-G with hose connections
- Can be used universally on any CNC machine with a smooth surface.
- Working height: 100mm
- High precision and maximum holding forces.
Innospann G
- Innospann System G with hoses for universal use on all CNC machines with smooth tables.
- Two vacuum connections: One connection fixes the block on the table, the other clamps the workpiece securely and precisely.
4) Innospan Systems
Innospann Steel Plate
- Suitable for the flexible upgrading of all machines with smooth, grid or console tables.
- Many sizing options available. Either a small section, or the complete table can be upgraded.
- Adaptable to suit different working heights.
- Provides extreme flexibility of vacuum block positioning.
- Unused vacuum access points are sealed manually using magnetic plugs
Innospann Steel Plate T
- Suitable for the flexible upgrading of all machines with smooth, grid or console tables.
- Many sizing options available. Either a small section, or the complete table can be upgraded.
- Adaptable to suit different working heights.
- Provides extreme flexibility of vacuum block positioning.
- Unused vacuum access points are automatically sealed