The latest generation of TESTit is made up of two parts, the test module or measuring unit, which changes depending on the specific measurement application, and the IT module or basic unit. Combining the different variants makes for a flexible solution that can measure almost anything, says the company.
TESTit can be used on multi-spindle machines, turning centres and machining centres. Furthermore, the system incorporates an additional module for measuring and recording the insertion force of hollow-shank taper tool holders (HSK). TESTit works as a modular system with plug-and-play functions that communicate via newly developed software that can be viewed on a 10” tablet, on a USB stick or as a download.
Hainbuch’s TESTit was only previously available as a complete unit, so users bought one device for external clamping and another for internal clamping. The costs to end users were prohibitive and Hainbuch has taken steps to rectify this. Now, customers only need to purchase one basic unit or IT module, regardless of whether they need to measure the external or internal clamping forces, or pull-in forces. Test modules are then added to the basic unit, which also fits specially-designed versions of the measurement modules. This configuration means that costs are significantly lower when compared with alternate measuring devices available on the market, says Hainbuch. In fact, for customers buying two or more devices, costs are almost cut in half.
With plug-and-play functionality, each measuring unit can be detached from the base unit with just three screws, allowing customers to swap-out features quickly – just as customers are used to doing with Hainbuch clamping modules.
To retain process stability, precision and productivity, regular monitoring of the clamping and draw force is essential. Today, no one can afford to manufacture with just ‘theoretical values’, and no one wants to have workpieces rejected because the clamping force is too low, or have part deformation if the force is too high. Likewise, detecting the lubrication and contamination status can prevent costly and unscheduled maintenance. In any case, DIN EN 1550 specifies that static clamping force measurements are to be carried out at regular intervals.
TESTit’s software program for visualising the measured values has three display variants that can be viewed via a tablet: a speedometer display, bar graph or line diagram. An integrated administration database allows users to select their current clamping device and machine tool. The measured values are archived as PDF and CSV files.
