Clamping System Replaces T-Slot Platter

Big Kaiser’s modular Unilock zero-point clamping system is now available in a kit designed for Haas 160-mm platter rotary indexing tables. Equipped with an ISM 160 single-chuck solution for fourth- or fifth-axis rotary tables, the adapter rests between the chuck and the spindle face of the rotary indexer, replacing the existing T-slot platter. The receiver goes directly onto the indexer spindle nose and includes a pre-plumbed air solution. Pneumatic clamping and unclamping of the chuck can be controlled by the machine tool controller or manual valves.

Unilock zero-point clamping uses spring pressure to drive multiple clamping pins against a tapered clamping knob. Air pressure compresses the springs to release the pins off the knob, and clamping is achieved by venting the air pressure out of the chuck. The clamping knob is attached to a base plate or fixture, or directly to a workpiece to facilitate palletization. According to the company, this configuration enables repeatable clamping better than 0.0002" (0.005 mm), all with a retention force between 1,100 and 1,540 lbs. The exterior timing features on the chuck are identical to Unilock MCM 150 and MSM 170 chucks so that existing pallets with timing features can easily be shared on this platform. Additionally, a timing slot enables a timing pin to match non-standard pallet sizes or workpieces with a timing notch, and can also be used as a lockout to prevent incorrect loading of fixtures.