With the aid of the vacuum clamping systems from Schmalz, both older and modern woodworking centres can be used far more economically and flexibly. This results from the fact that conversion from one workpiece to another now takes only a few seconds, compared with several minutes when conventional, mechanical positioning and clamping devices are used. During the removal of one workpiece, conversion and clamping of the next workpiece, the machine stands idle (unless it is a two-position machine where setting up can be carried out in parallel to the machining operation). In all cases, however, it is important to be able to position varying workpieces quickly and reproducibly on the machine table, clamp them and then remove them without damage after machining.

Thanks to the modular design of the vacuum clamping systems from Schmalz, complete individual solutions can be constructed from the "construction kit" for any woodworking centre and any machining task, thus saving or reducing the costs for varying clamping devices and templates. The adapter plates of the INNOSPANN vacuum clamping system from Schmalz are designed especially for the clamping of narrow and/or curved workpieces and of frame elements. In addition, the adapter plates can be installed either together with or instead of the standard suction blocks on the consoles or vacuum-gripper mountings, depending on the machine type. This means that either mixed-mode operation or direct positioning on the consoles can be used, resulting in even more flexibility.

Up to four identical or different suction blocks, namely four mono-bases or one quad-base, can be mounted on the adapter plates. Depending on the properties and dimensions of the workpiece(s), the appropriate suction cups are then positioned and the clamping system is ready for use. Since, for example, the four mono-bases can be positioned freely on the adapter plate, even critical workpieces can be clamped optimally and, above all, safely. The available clamping surface on the workpiece can be fully utilised, resulting in optimum holding forces which permit the use of high cutting or feed speeds and thus further increasing productivity.

The adapter plates can be adapted to various woodworking centres without modification. A further advantage is that the overall height remains the same as that of the standard suction blocks, permitting the mixed use of both types. Furthermore, it is unnecessary to adjust the Z-axis of the machine, which means that the available machining height remains unchanged. If damaged, the suction cups can be replaced quickly and easily without the need for tools. A wide range of suction cups with various shapes and sizes is available for the implementation of all kinds of clamping tasks.