Universal vacuum clamping systems with 1 and 2 circuits for CNC woodworking centres with console tables.

Modern CNC machining centres equipped with vacuum claming systems are far more flexible, efficient and productive than machines with conventional workpiece clamping systems. The specialist for vacuum components, vacuum handling systems and vacuum clamping systems, J. Schmalz GmbH in 72293 Glatten, offers a wide range of vacuum clamping technology for initial equipment of CNC woodworking machines. These vacuum clamping systems are constantly being developed further in order to meet the increasing market demands. For the new generation of CNC machining centres with console tables, Schmalz now offers the vacuum clamping systems VC-K1 (with one vacuum circuit) and VC-K2 (with two such circuits). In the system with one vacuum circuit, the suction blocks are clamped mechanically to the table to prevent them from moving during handling of the workpieces. The system with two vacuum circuits, in contrast, uses one circuit to clamp the suction blocks in position, while the workpiece is held by the vacuum in the second circuit. The two vacuum circuits can be controlled separately.

The suction blocks, which are very easy to handle, can be placed on the table and positioned quickly and can be removed just as quickly when they are no longer needed, and thus increase the application-flexibility of the CNC machining centres enormously. The non-productive times needed for clamping and setting up can be reduced drastically, something which greatly improves the economical use of the machines. The robust suction blocks also guarantee precise and repeatable clamping of wooden workpieces of all shapes and sizes for rational machining in one-off or series production. The standard suction blocks are 50 or 100 mm high and are delivered ready for use. They can be installed and positioned by any operator without further training. If the suction plates of the blocks become worn, they can be replaced quickly and easily, without the need for tools, which means that the machine downtimes are reduced almost to zero.

The suction blocks are available in various sizes for damage-free clamping of small and large workpieces with differing shapes. The secure clamping from below means that all sides of the wooden parts can be machines. Furthermore, the suction blocks are compatible and can, if necessary, be used on several machines with the same clamping system.