Page 26 - MetalForming July 2009

Tooling Technology ToolingUpdate
Website Features Examples of
3D Die-Design Projects
Summit Tool Design, Rockford, IL, has launched its redesigned website, www.summitsedge.com, where visitors can view examples of the firm’s 3D die- design projects and virtual die-tryout process. Summit offers tool and die design services for the sheetmetal-stamp- ing industry, and value-added services for Solid Edge software. Also on the site: video of a sheetmetal forming simulation, design case studies and a “Contact Us” form.
Summit Tool Design: 815/399-5460;
www.summitsedge.com
Magnetic Quick-Die-Change Systems
Hilma, Ellisville, MO,
introduces the M-Tecs
manual, magnetic quick-
die-change system. Use
M-Tecs apparatus to
clamp existing dies with-
out retooling. Since mag-
netic clamping force is
evenly distributed
throughout the base of
the die, die movement is
minimized and tool wear
reduced, minimizing die-maintenance costs.
Permanent double magnet technolo- gy allows clamp forces to be maintained without the need for power—power is only
needed to clamp and unclamp. Safe clamping is ensured thanks to a multi- level safety system, including a double current sensor, LED diagnostic panel, multi-step clamp/unclamp process, detaching sensor, and die-position limit switches. The magnetic platens are cus- tom designed to suit the application, and the magnetic press bolster can be designed to incorporate Hilma die lifters and bolster extensions.
Hilma Div. of Carr Lane Roemheld Mfg.: 800/827-2526; www.clrh.com/hilma
New Long-Range Inductive Sensors
Balluff Inc., Florence, KY, has intro- duced SteelFace extended-range eco- nomical sensors in PNP N/O and NPN N/O versions and in M8, M12 and M18 sizes, with PTFE-coated housings avail- able to repel welding-slag buildup. The sensors feature one-piece stainless-steel housings for corrosion and impact pro- tection, and reportedly provide as much as double the sensing range as standard inductive sensors. So, they can be placed farther away from targets, decreasing inci- dental impacts—the leading cause of sen- sor failures. The sensors are ideal for harsh environments. For example, when flush-mounted in steel, the M12 double-
24 METALFORMING / SPECIAL ONLINE-ONLY ISSUE 2009
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