IMTS Preview: Lexair Inc.

Lexair's low-profile Flex-Grip collet closers maintain a secure, parallel grip on inconsistent workpieces using a quick-change system of vulcanized collet heads that accommodates workpiece variations of ± 0.5 mm (±0.020") diameter. The company will demonstrate the closers and various accessories at IMTS booth W-1322.

Designed for use in stationary applications on machine tools or assembly pallets, Flex-Grip collet closers use Hardinge Flex-C collet heads or other brands of vulcanized collets to maintain a parallel grip on non-uniform parts, minimizing stock push back and draw-bar force. The system facilitates quick setup with automatic part centering and collet changes in seconds using a manual collet compression tool.

Flex-Grip collet closers can be used horizontally or vertically on machine tables, fixture plates, trunion tables and tombstone fixtures, singly or ganged together. They use a through-hole, double-acting, fixed-length design to accept long parts through the body of the closer. Two sizes with heights of just 70 mm (2.75") and 80.5 mm (3.17") accommodate 42 mm (1.65") or 65 mm (2.55") diameter collet heads to handle a part diameter range of 5 mm (.19") to 65 mm (2.55"). The low-profile design gives more Z-axis clearance to accommodate a wider range of part sizes. The units are hydraulically actuated, requiring pressure to open or close, while holding the collet and part securely in a fixed position. Maximum input pressure is 2,000 psi.

Collet heads are available in round smooth, round serrated, hex serrated, square smooth and emergency styles. The vulcanized one-piece design prevents chips from entering the collet and spindle, while the rubber's elasticity accommodates repeated open/close cycles to make the system ideal for quick-change applications. The Flex-C collet heads are guaranteed to a concentricity of 0.005 mm (0.0002") TIR.