Electrical Gage Actuators Ease Maintenance

Marposs has enhanced its gaging solutions for grinding machines with new electrical gage actuators. Compared to the company’s former hydraulic and pneumatic solutions, this electromechanical system provides better control of the process and significantly reduces maintenance time and costs. The updated products encompass the E-Fenar measuring system, electromechanical slides and grinding tool arms, which are managed by the the company’s Blú single cable integrated control system.

Compared to traditional hydraulic or pneumatic devices, which can experience variations in pressure, the electromechanical solutions can run at higher rates thanks to the ability to better control acceleration and deceleration, in addition to consistent speed rates. The electric solutions are also faster and easier to install, as they require only a single cable for connection. With hydraulic systems, which are constantly under high pressure and high flow rates, components tend to deteriorate: hoses chafe, fittings come loose, and fluids and filters must be changed regularly. An electric system eliminates all the piping, hoses, filters and much of the lubricant for ease of maintenance.

The in-process gaging solutions can be integrated into an orbital grinder for controlling size on different crankshaft parts or smooth eccentric shafts. Since positioning can be optimized through this control, several checks can be conducted by the same gage on a part. The flexibility and accuracy of the actuators enables intermediate positioning points, speed control and acceleration to be pre-programmed for automated checking of the component while in the machine.

Linear E-Slides available in 35-, 50-, 75-, 100-, 130-, 170- and 200-mm strokes enable reductions in cycle time as well as flexibility, reliability and improved part quality through optimization of the grinding cycle.