Hybrid Clamping Mechanism - Sodick Plustech

Hybrid Direct Clamping System (Non-Toggle)

"Proven Ultra-Precision Electric Hybrid Design"

Sodick Plustech believes the most important roles of the clamping mechanism are:

CONSTANT clamping force
STRAIGHTNESS of opening and closing
EVEN clamping pressure to mold closing surface
EASY maintenance

Sodick Plustech provides Ultra-Precision Hybrid Clamping System, using both electric servomotor and hydraulic clamping cylinder as drives. This proven hybrid system uses a central servomotor and ball screw for mold opening and closing. After clamping locks engage the central ram, a central hydraulic "pancake" cylinder generates direct clamping pressure.

HYBRID DIRECT CLAMPING	TOGGLE CLAMPING

CLAMPING FORCE
Clamping force is constant because of center ram construction. Direct pressure clamping from short stroke "pancake" cylinder. Also it is very easy to adjust clamping tonnage even during at the cycle.	Clamping force may not remain constant due to increased temperature. This increased temperature expands the mold and length of tie bars. No simple positive indication of the actual clamping force. It is extremely difficult to use less than maximum tonnage or to adjust tonnage up and down during the cycle.
STRAIGHTNESS & ALIGNMENT
Mold open/close cylinder supported by a linear motion guide, provide for straight travel of the movable platen and accurate alignment with the fixed platen.	Movable platen cannot move completely straight due to tolerance of arm dimensions and worn links.
PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION
Direct clamping pressure by central ram construction provide even distribution on platen. No misalignment of mold.	There is potential for platen deflection because toggles push the corners of the platen instead of the center of the platen.
SPEED MONITORING: Sensor and encoder are attached to plunger, which enables direct measurement and feedback to system.	SPEED MONITORING: Usually data is measured from encoder at AC servomotor. Data is indirect because there are connecting components such as ball screw and belt.
MAINTENANCE
Hydraulic short stroke "pancake" cylinder use only a small amount of oil, which is designed to eliminate service by the user. Hybrid clamping system is considered a much cleaner system.	Toggle systems are inherently higher maintenance. Comparatively more susceptible to wear and the need for grease and maintenance, which may bring contamination issues.

Two Stage Plunger System

Hybrid Direct Clamping System

Control System

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