What Is a Rotary Clamp Cylinder?
A clamping cylinder is a commonly used machine tool in automated production lines, designed to secure (clamp) a workpiece in place for various processes, such as drilling, performed by a robotic arm or spot welder.
The clamping cylinder employs pneumatic or hydraulic pressure to move a component called the rod in a linear motion, either vertically or horizontally, effectively immobilizing the workpiece during the manufacturing process.
A rotary clamp cylinder is a variation of the clamping cylinder that incorporates a rotating mechanism into the rod.
Uses of Rotary Clamp Cylinders
Clamp cylinders are essential for securely holding workpieces in automated production lines.
Rotary clamp cylinders are specifically employed for clamping purposes during machining or welding operations. Their design is optimized for space efficiency, ensuring that the clamping point does not obstruct the flow of workpieces during loading and unloading before and after machining or welding processes.
The clamp arm, often referred to as a clamp lever, is capable of swiveling to secure the workpiece. When not in use, the clamp lever can be positioned in a way that does not interfere with the loading or unloading of workpieces in an automated production line. This compact design helps save space and streamline operations in automated manufacturing environments.
Principles of Rotary Clamp Cylinders
The rotary clamp cylinder’s rod is equipped with a swiveling mechanism, often driven by a cam mechanism utilizing a groove on the rod itself.
In scenarios where workpieces need to be clamped at two separate locations on the left and right sides of an automated production line, the direction of rotation for the clamp levers on each side can be reversed, reducing the time needed for rotational movement. Rotary clamp cylinders are well-suited for such applications.
These cylinders can be powered by compressed air for pneumatic operation or hydraulic pressure for applications requiring substantial clamping force. In cases where high clamping force is necessary, hydraulic systems are often preferred.
It is worth noting that while the rotary clamp cylinder’s rod swivels during operation, not all models are capable of simultaneous clamping and swiveling. Careful consideration is required when selecting and operating these cylinders.
There exists a trade-off relationship between allowable clamp lever length and clamping force, as well as between the allowable moment of inertia of the clamp lever and piston speed for each model. Several factors, including usage conditions, clamp lever shape, length, weight, and various specifications, impact the calculation of moment of inertia. Therefore, it is advisable to thoroughly review the specifications provided by the manufacturer before usage.
Additionally, some models support horizontal operation, while others do not. The choice of model and manufacturer should align with the overall equipment design of the automated production line.