Kitagawa KGFM grip force meters check chucks for safety and performance
1 min read
Kitagawa has introduced the KGFM series of wireless grip force meters that are designed to measure gripping force of chucks quickly and accurately to enhance safety, avoid damage and improve production performance.
European Norm 1550 states that checks must be carried out regularly in the interests of operator safety to reduce the risk the risk of a workpiece flying out of the chuck. However, the Kitagawa KGFM meters also help to maximise lathe productivity by ensuring that full gripping force is being applied, allowing high rotational speeds and feeds, and supporting repeatability of component production.
The wireless grip force meters can perform either a static test, or a dynamic test with the spindle running, in which case the instrument records the rpm of the chuck as well the force it applies to the billet or casting.
The Japanese-made sensor is available from UK agent, 1st Machine Tool Accessories, in 72 and 125 mm diameter standard sizes. By installing rest pads in the appropriate locations, both types can be used on two and three-jaw chucks, while the larger model can also take measurements on four-jaw chucks.
The dynamic grip force meter, which uses a standard 9 volt battery, comes as a kit including wireless force sensor, rpm magnetic wand, standard rest pads, display and padded carrying case. Stop rings are available for controlling insertion depth, as are custom sensors for measuring the gripping force and rpm of larger chucks.
