Page 10 - MetalForming September 2012

Tech Update
Coupling Enables Simple, Quick Attachment of Transfer-System Gripper Rails
GAM Enterprises, Mt. Prospect, IL, introduces lightweight, compact and durable couplings promising to ease sectional gripper-rail attachment in trans- fer systems. The couplings, designed by Jakob Antriebstechnik GmbH and currently used on transfer systems in Europe, can be retrofitted into existing systems or installed by the transfer-system OEM.
The couplings are the only units avail- able that provide vertical separation, says Gary Michalek, GAM Enterprises CEO, with horizontal separation also offered. Clamping force is achieved man- ually via a hex-head nut, or pneumatically.
The horizontal version offers pneu- matic operation—a key feature, accord- ing to GAM Enterprises design engineer Mark Ruggles. Hydraulic couplings can leak, he notes, causing oil to drip or spray onto parts, equipment and the floor.
In addition, “the horizontal couplings are designed so that, in the event of an air-pressure loss, the transfer rails will stay secure with a minimal loss of holding capability,” explains Ruggles.
All couplings are
controlled electri-
cally to monitor
clamping status,
and fit directly to
current gripper rails
or through the help of adapter plates. Designed to provide easy separation to speed changeover, the couplings can be outfitted with additional electrical and air connections to simplify installation.
The vertical coupling Model PKV con- sists of active and passive parts made from tempered steel to provide corrosion protection. Clamping force is generated in the active part via a combination of an
In 1964, LSP introduced the original PresSpray, introducing airless, automatic spraying of die lubricants. Today, presses are faster and more high tech, tolerances are tighter, and lubricants better. The PresSpray-II has evolved to meet the demands of twenty first century stamping.
If you’re tired of trying to make one stamping lubrication design fit for all your jobs, talk to LSP. We offer a wider range of lubication solutions than any other manufacturer. Learn more about PresSpray and other technologies at
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COMPUSPRAY
MINICOATER
FLOATERCOATER
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LSP Industries Inc. Rockford, IL Tel: 815.226.8090 email: sales@lspind.com
8 MetalForming/September 2012
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