Metrology System, Gripping Tools Enhance Moldmaking Processes

Rego-Fix USA highlights its ForceMaster measuring metrology tool and powRgrip toolholders for optimizing moldmaking processes. The ForceMaster drawbar tool makes machine tool spindle drawbar testing, tracking and documenting easier than ever, while the powRgrip high-precision toolholding system generates high clamping forces equal to or higher than shrink-fit holders.

According to the company, more than a dozen available adapters thread onto the ForceMaster tool to measure popular spindle tapers, including HSK, SK, BT, CAT and others. This flexibility makes the ForceMaster a universal metrology tool for the shop floor. With one rugged measuring tool, operators can ensure spindle clamping force meets manufacturer recommendations to mitigate chatter as well as tool and drawbar damage, while minimizing the risk of crashed spindles.

The ForceMaster also integrates into digital production environments and is fully accessible via a mobile app available for Apple and Android devices. The device dashboard can be mirrored to perform measurements remotely, and all information is downloadable for analysis and tracking.

In addition, the safe, precise and cost-effective powRgrip system includes a holder, collet and mounting unit, generating six tons of force. The system relies on the interference between holder and collet to generate its clamping force. Unlike other clamping systems where heat or hydraulics are used to expand the material, the powRgrip uses the mechanical properties of the holder material to generate gripping force with runout below 0.0001". Interchangeable collets are available from 0.2 mm up to 1", including metric sizes, and will hold both carbide and HSS tools.

Designed for easy operation and use, the powRgrip system takes less than 10 seconds to press in a tool or remove it from the holder. Because no heat is used, tools can be used immediately after a tool change. According to the company, cycle testing exceeded more than 20,000 insertions and removals, outperforming other systems on the market.