Boosts automation

Schunk boosts automation: With the Tandem BWA power clamping blocks, it is possible to clamp small batch sizes of different workpieces fully automatically. The clamping jaws of the latest generation of power clamping blocks can be changed flexibly with the robot. This leads to enormous reductions in set-up times, especially for multiple applications and clamping towers.

In many industrialised countries, the labour market can no longer meet the demand for skilled workers. Many industries are also facing competitive pressure that demands more productive manufacturing processes. Both of these trends are making automated processes increasingly important and companies will have to open up to them sooner or later. Application specialist SCHUNK has developed a suitable module to expand the possibilities of autonomous machining processes. With the new BWA quick jaw change system, the clamping jaws of the TANDEM power clamping blocks can now be changed manually or fully automatically using a robot. The system will be available as standard for the pneumatic and hydraulic 2- and 3-jaw clamping blocks in sizes 100, 140, 160 and 250.

Short reaction times for changing batch sizes

The quick-change jaws contained in the clamping devices can be changed automatically in seconds without the use of tools. As an experienced complete equipment supplier, SCHUNK also offers the matching PGN-plus-P pneumatic parallel gripper for automated assembly. Its gripper fingers are equipped with special, spring-loaded mounting pieces. This allows the top jaws to be automatically unlocked, picked up and reinserted with a positive fit. The application can therefore be flexibly adapted to new clamping tasks at any time. The Tandem BWA also enables five times faster manual changing compared to conventional jaw changing.

Integrated queries as standard

When it comes to automation, the monitoring options integrated into the clamping devices as standard are particularly forward-looking. In addition to the patented dynamic pressure monitoring for the basic jaw positions "open" and "closed", the monitoring of the compressed air transfer to the clamping jaw is already integrated. This allows the customer to check the workpiece system or clean the clamping surfaces.

All Tandem power clamping blocks have one thing in common: they offer consistently high clamping forces with a compact design and optimum accessibility in 5-sided machining, even in the tightest of spaces. Thanks to maximum flexibility and short reaction times, they increase competitiveness in all industries. In addition to the power clamping block and clamping jaws, the handling components on the robot are also essential for an automated process sequence. With its extensive portfolio of clamping technology, gripping technology and automation components, SCHUNK offers application solutions from a single source - perfectly harmonised with each other.