Manual quick-change clamping system on lathes

SMW-Autoblok has developed the TMS-2G, which allows lathes to be transformed by manually changing the clamping system quickly and precisely.

Current systems on the market are complex (and therefore expensive), very bulky (reducing the effective travel on the Z-axis and excessively increasing the distance between the workpiece and the machine spindle bearings), and often restrict the usable bar passage. The new TMS-2G is the simplest (and therefore most cost-effective) and most compact system, allowing for a large bar passage without limitations on the Z-axis or the use of the machine bore. The advantages for customers include the great flexibility to interchange any type of clamping system, for example: - chucks of different diameters: smaller for higher cutting speeds or larger to maximize the machine's turning diameter; - 3-jaw chucks with 2-, 4-, or 6-jaw chucks to always use the correct clamping system for the workpiece; - chucks with collets for working with bars or bar stock;

- chucks with expanding collets for internal clamping;

- install a special clamping system with automatic or manual operation.

Flexibility is maximized, and when combined with the highest precision, speed, and the best quality/price ratio on the market, we're talking about a revolutionary product that can help companies achieve the goals of reduced downtime and versatility typical of modern mechanical engineering challenges.

New Manual Jack converts Power Chucks to Manual Chucks without hydraulics or pneumatics.

SMW-Autoblok introduces the Manual Jack (MJ) connection kit for fast power-to-manual chuck conversion. Designed to be easily retrofitted to new or existing machines without using costly hydraulic or pneumatic table connection prep, Manual Jack is the perfect alternative to manual chucks on non-hydraulic or pneumatic machines.

The manual jack is compatible with stationary milling machines, 5-axis machines, and mill-turn machines, making it an ideal solution for multi-pallet systems that require versatility and efficiency.

The MJ Stand-alone version is engineered for easy installation, allowing users to mount it directly on the machine table or on the pallet of their Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS). This version is not only economical but also compact and lightweight, ensuring that it seamlessly integrates into existing setups without adding unnecessary bulk.

For those seeking an even more streamlined option, we present the MJP Pallet version. This design incorporates the MJ mechanism directly into the machine pallet, resulting in the most compact and lightweight solution available. The development of this version will be carried out in close cooperation with machine manufacturers to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.

Additionally, we offer the MJC Cartridge Version, which features the MJ mechanism housed in a cartridge. This cartridge can be partially or completely inserted into the machine pallet, tailored specifically by the machine manufacturer in a specially designed pallet. The adaptability of the cartridge allows customization to meet the unique needs of various machine configurations.

Additional features include:

·         Adapted to machining centers to manually operate a power chuck

·         Ideal for 5 axis mill-turn machines without air/oil feed

·         Useful for palletized machines due to mechanical irreversible constant gripping force

·         Ideal alternative to a manual chuck with simple integration of power chucks

·         Operate virtually any type of power chuck: 2/3/4 jaws, 2+2, 6 jaws, 2+2+2 etc.

·         Use with sealed power chucks of the SMW Autoblok Proofline series

·         No need for air/oil feeds making it a perfect solution for pallet changing systems

·         Easily interchangeable among several machines

·         Adaptable to the machine table/pallet with different centering and mounting threads patterns

·         Operate chucks in both external and internal clamping

Furthermore, the New Manual Jack connection kit represents a significant advancement in machining technology, providing manufacturers with flexible, efficient, and tailored solutions to turn their power chuck requirements into manual use.

SMW-AUTOBLOK offers a broad and complete portfolio of pneumatic grippers (2-3-4 fingers) as well as various accessories (such as gripper changing systems optionally with inductive transmission elements C40 AUTOMATION) for a wide range of industries.

From size 64 to 250

Proofline: Sealed and low-maintenance

Maximum gripping force due to oval piston (2-finger), maximum gripping force (3-4 finger), low weight

Gripping force maintained by spring force for external (-SE) and internal gripping (-SI)

Innovative sensor technology: magnetic switches, inductive sensors, position measuring systems (sensors optionally available)

Air purge connection

Exchange-compatible with standard universal grippers on the market

Customised gripping systems available on request

SMW-Autoblok offers automated gripping devices for pallet handling and for loading/unloading workpieces. "Over 70 years of experience in rotary and stationary workpiece clamping technology in machining processes has allowed us to develop various solutions, most of which are designed to be operated automatically with the aid of robots or cobots." An example of this is the RR Series hermetic chucks, which feature lubrication intervals extended from daily to monthly or even annual. "These solutions include automatic jaw changing, which speeds up assembly and disassembly operations, thus increasing machining flexibility." The company has also developed quick-change systems for chucks (AT-PM) and other equipment (Rotary Plate), allowing for a quick change from 3-jaw chucks to 4- or 6-jaw chucks, the use of expanding grips, or simply pallet changes with various equipment, operated manually, pneumatically, or hydraulically.

SMW-Autoblok has developed a series of specialized products that include mechatronic, inductive, and electric solutions. The introduction of these new products, along with existing pneumatic and hydraulic ones, has allowed the company to offer customers a complete range of solutions for various automated applications. Characterized by compressed air operation, pneumatic grippers are widely used in automation systems due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness. These solutions account for approximately 90% of grippers in use, as they are easy to install and control via PLC, making them ideal for any type of user. SMW-AUTOBLOK also offers electric grippers, which are more suitable for use in production environments with more stringent regulations, such as those related to the food, pharmaceutical, and technology industries. These solutions offer advanced features, such as clamping force adjustment and precise monitoring of the size and weight of handled objects, improving the efficiency and precision of automated processes.

APS Zero Point System are available from size 100 to size 250

Introducing the next-generation APS 138 E and APS 138 I zero-point clamping modules, engineered to deliver <0.005 mm repeatability, maximum rigidity, and universal interface compatibility across nearly all zero-point systems currently in the market.

The APS 138 series enable high-speed part changeover, full automation support, and superior machining accuracy across turning, milling, and grinding operations.

With the APS 138-E for external mounting and APS 138-I for integrated, built-in applications, both modules provide the same mechanical performance characteristics: a three-jaw clamping design, spring-actuated locking, and TURBO-assisted pull-down forces up to 26 kN. The modules can be unlocked pneumatically at 6 bar via side or bottom actuation.

This size is designed as a direct-fit alternative to other zero-point systems on the market.

The APS system serves as a universal interface between the machine tool, clamping device, and workpiece. It requires no traditional fixturing methods and is ideal for pallet automation and modular setup.

All APS modules are Proofline® sealed, fully protected against coolant, corrosion, and swarf. An integrated air purge system for cleaning and locating surfaces is standard, helping maintain chip-free mating surfaces, essential for automation and high-tolerance part handling. Select models support pneumatic stroke control (SC) for real-time monitoring and feedback during robotic load/unload cycles.

The three-jaw system includes 3 clamping slides, providing higher pull-down forces and eliminating the need for special setups during multi-directional milling operations. The APS 138 series is fully suitable for automation, supporting both manual and robotic workflows without compromising speed or accuracy.

Key Technical Features:

•             < 0.005 mm repeatability across changeovers

•             Turbo-enhanced pull-down and spring-locked holding for rigid clamping

•             3 clamping slides for higher pull-down forces and simplified multi-directional milling setups

•             Universal fit for most industry-standard zero-point geometries

•             Standard integrated air purge system for clean, repeatable interfaces

•             Suitable for full automation, including robotic loading/unloading

•             Hardened steel construction for long service life in production environments

•             100% modular design for flexible machine tool adaptation

Whether applied externally or internally, the APS 138 series is ideal for high-speed, automated part changeover with no compromise on accuracy, uptime, or system flexibility.  

SMW-Autoblok is a world leader in the development of steady rests.

The steady rests offer great potential for the efficient design of the manufacturing process in both turning and turn-milling operations. SMW-Autoblok specialises in the development and manufacture of clamping systems for stationary and rotating workpiece machining. Steady rests for turning, milling and grinding are an integral part of our product range. The steady rests SMW-Autoblok support long, slender and even wave-shaped workpieces, thus preventing them from bending or vibrating during machining. They enable higher accuracy, higher speed and ultimately more performance. Our steady rests help meet the growing demands in modern workpiece machining.

The key factor is the repeat accuracy when clamping the workpiece, which must be ensured even at ever higher process speeds. The steady rests SMW-Autoblok achieve this through the high-dimensional accuracy of its components, which is ensured at several points. All functional parts are hardened and precision-machined to ensure maximum durability.

SMW-AUTOBLOK as the world leader in steady rests has designed the steady rest line RX especially for machines with limited mounting space. The extra compact dimensions are achieved by a new innovative double cam actuating mechanism. This enables building a steady rest in a shape that clears the door and the chip conveyer of the machine and thereby avoids interference. An integrated actuating cylinder completes the extra compact design of the RX steady rest. SMW-AUTOBLOK as the world leader in steady rests has designed the new steady rest line RX especially for machines with limited mounting space. The extra compact dimensions are achieved by a new innovative double cam actuating mechanism (patent pending). This enables us to build the steady rest in a shape that clears the door and the chip conveyer of the machine and thereby avoids interference. An integrated actuating cylinder completes the extra compact design of the RX steady rest.

SMW-AUTOBLOK as the world leader in steady rests has designed the steady rest line RX especially for machines with limited mounting space. The extra compact dimensions are achieved by a new innovative double cam actuating mechanism. This enables building a steady rest in a shape that clears the door and the chip conveyer of the machine and thereby avoids interference. An integrated actuating cylinder completes the extra compact design of the RX steady rest.

The extra compact RX line as an addition to the well-established and proven SMW-AUTOBLOK line of steady rests:

SLU-X self centering steady rests, version -B with side mounted cylinders

SR self centering steady rests with integrated coolant flush, version -CL with fine adjustment of the clamped workpiece

K self centering steady rests with compact design

KLU self centering steady rests with narrow arms for crankshafts

SRG Grinding steady rests