Jergens Inc. introduced a new workholding system recently that it reports “dramatically reduces costly set-up times on 3+2 multi-axis and 5-axis machines.” The Fixture Pro® 5-Axis Quick Change System allows machine operators to have multi-sided access to pallet-mounted workpieces and achieve accurate positioning, increasing productivity and maximize the potential capability of 5-axis machines.
To allow unrestricted access to various part faces, this modular system has various off-the-shelf riser sizes and styles to raise a part off the worktable. “With 3+2 multi-axis and 5-axis machining becoming more and more common, we knew our customers would need a workholding system that maximizes these machines’ travel capabilities,” according to Jergens Workholding Solutions group manager Bob Rubenstahl, “so fixture builders can raise the part off the table, rigidly clamp it in place, and rapidly change it out.”
By raising the part off the table, the Fixture Pro system allows the cutting tool unobstructed access to faces, surfaces, and areas, so programmers can plot efficient tool paths that maximize the machine’s capabilities. The system also uses various clamping elements specially designed so that jaws and other vise components provide rigid clamping forces without obstructing access to the part.
All components of the system have been designed with center location and timing pins that allow for highly accurate and repeatable part orientation, according to the developer, eliminating the need to re-indicate.
Also, Jergens has integrated quick-change elements so users can change out parts or complete set-ups “within seconds.” By adding pull studs into the bottom of a fixture or vise, users can drop it into the system’s unique quick change pallet. Then, with a few turns of a screw, the pallet accurately locates and clamps the vise or other workholding element. For quick-change capabilities at the subplate level, the entire Fixture Pro set-up can be mounted to a subplate configured with either the Ball Lock® System or the Quick Locating System (QLS) grid, so the complete set-up can be put on or taken off a machine quickly.
