Floyd Automatic launches Master-Clamp and Master-Guide to solve workholding issues

The Floyd Master-Clamp system offers a rigid collet body that requires no special sleeves to ensure compatibility with the turning machine. The jaws then clamp the component 'parallel'. The four jaws (or three for smaller diameters and special applications) can be machined specifically to suit the component, including special sections and eccentric clamping. Moreover, the system enables the end-user to 'over-clamp' components when parts need to be held close to the cutting area. A larger diameter can be passed through inside the Master-Clamp collet with the jaws clamping the smaller diameter where the clamping force is required. Acting as a mini four-jaw chuck, its Master-Clamp system, maintains Floyd Automatic, offers increased clamping forces and range than conventional collet systems. With no slots required at the face of the collets, the system also eliminates the issue of swarf travelling up the inside of the collet sleeve and marking the component. It has this feature in common with the Master-Guide system guide bushing solution for CNC sliding head turning centres. Floyd Automatic says the Master-Guide system has been developed to solve the problem of accuracy that can frustrate users of sliding head machines. With four clamping pads, says the company, the system significantly improves accuracy in intricate machining operations. The clamping pads can be supplied in different materials and coatings to improve the guiding process and eliminate bar marking that can occur when standard carbide bushes react with stainless steel bars. The nature of the Master-Guide design also allows the bush to adapt to variations in the bar and it can be used in most types of guide bushing applications, including the popular adaptive guide bush systems that are used to accommodate larger variations in bar sizes.