21.01.2017
A series of clamping systems for suspension arm production
Raufoss Automotive Components is a world leader in the manufacture of light alloys car components. Clamping of this type of work-pieces is especially difficult due to the delicacy of the casting structure prior to machining and the softness of the material itself.
Frequently asymmetric, fanciful shapes of work-pieces cause a lot of difficulties in fixing the part. In addition, the manual clamping does not give any repetition and it is a subject to high risk of error.
The question was “how to work with a series of hundreds or thousands parts that differ from each other in terms of production technology, that additionally are distinguished for two different types of traffic (right and left hand) for several different series of vehicles?”. We found an answer – techTEAM has developed a number of unique clamping solutions that are quick-changeable on the machine and provide excellent machining performances. The precision of performance is enormous since these elements go to a premium class cars of the famous Scandinavian manufacturer, cars that often reach the speeds of 250 km/h!
Photo no 1 presents a clamping system for suspension arm production, mounted onto the working table of Mazak’s 5-axis double-pallet machining center Variaxis 630-2PC. An important feature of this system is its ability to quick change in order to fit the work-pieces for left-hand traffic.
In the systems for the automotive industry, there are some factors that particularly important. One of them is so called “air control” of a workpiece position. Air controllers in the form of compressed air nozzles monitor if the work-piece sits in exactly defined position.
We feel proud to be able to enhance the production processes of our clients and Raufoss is yet another example of a very successful collaboration.