Simple joining process.

Kistler's new NCFE servopress solution is specifically designed for simple joining processes to deliver a cost-effective alternative to conventional pneumatic or hydraulic systems.

Compared to hydraulic or pneumatic units, the NCFE module offers impressively low energy consumption, simple handling and fast commissioning for applications in the measuring range from 10 to 80 kN.

The NCFE module is a cost-effective, off the shelf joining system using integrated sensor technology that gives users the benefit of complete end-to-end monitoring and control of the entire joining process. Installation and handling are made much simpler, so machine builders can design custom systems which deliver low energy consumption and flexibility.

The joining process is controlled by Kistler's maXYmos NC system, which evaluates and documents the force/displacement curves for joining and press-fit processes in conjunction with the joining modules and the matching IndraDrive servo amplifier. The patterns of measurement curves can be used to monitor the quality of a single production step, a sub-assembly or an entire product, with control in real time via SERCOS III. The benefits of optimal cycle times can be achieved with maximum repeat precision. Downtime is minimized and machine availability is increased boosting productivity for the entire manufacturing process.

The Kistler NCFE module offers significantly greater efficiency than hydraulic and pneumatic joining processes. Savings potential with the electrical process is about 77% as compared to hydraulic and about 90% to pneumatic processes. Further cost savings accrue from the minimal maintenance needs of the NCFE system and 100% quality control in real time virtually eliminating rejects during production.

#Kistler #Manufacturing

Cost optimised electro-mechanical joining module

The new NCFB electro-mechanical joining modules from Kistler Instruments have been value engineered to provide a cost effective solution to many assembly and joining processes. Two versions of the new design are available, each with two measuring ranges. The smaller version has measuring ranges of 5 and 15 kN with 200 mm stroke at a speed of 250 mm/s and the larger version has ranges of 25 and 50 kN with a 400 mm stroke length at 150 mm/s. Both types retain the precision and flexibility of the NC modules with stroke length repeatability in real world conditions of 0.01 mm.

The ram is driven by an electronically commutated AC servo motor controlled by servo electronics to ensure constant rotational and therefore translational speed. The integrated piezoelectric force sensor with integral charge amplifier and absolute displacement encoder provide accurate and reliable operation over the module’s long service life of approximately 5 million cycles. Standard functions such as block pressing, position pressing and force feedback controlled pressing as well as intermediate positioning are all supported.

The modules may be flange mounted vertically or horizontally and threaded bores of sufficient strength to hold tools are provided on the face of the ram. The maximum tool weight without holding brake is 10 kg or 50 kg with holding brake for the smaller unit and 15 kg or 100 kg for the larger.

In addition to economical initial cost, the new modules share the low installation and operating costs of the NC range requiring only an electrical supply and cabling to the servo controller and monitoring and evaluation unit which communicates with the machine interface to provide OK/NOK commands. All Kistler NC joining modules are very energy efficient and low maintenance, compared with pneumatic and hydraulic systems, giving a very short cost recovery period, often less than 24 months depending on the specific application.