Vakuumspannsysteme

Vakuumspannsysteme, also known as vacuum clamping systems, are workholding devices that utilize atmospheric pressure to securely hold a workpiece. These systems create a vacuum between the workpiece and a clamping surface, generating a force that presses the workpiece against the surface. This force is sufficient to hold the workpiece stable during machining, assembly, or other manufacturing processes.

The principle of operation relies on a vacuum pump to evacuate air from a sealed cavity or between the workpiece and the clamping surface. This reduction in air pressure creates a pressure differential. The higher atmospheric pressure acting on the exposed surfaces of the workpiece then exerts a clamping force. Vakuumspannsysteme can be made from various materials, including metal, plastic, or composite.

These systems offer several advantages. They can clamp irregularly shaped or delicate workpieces without causing deformation or damage, which can be a concern with mechanical clamps. The clamping force is distributed evenly over the entire contact area, leading to greater accuracy and precision. Furthermore, they allow for easy access to all sides of the workpiece, facilitating machining operations without obstruction.

Applications for vakuumspannsysteme are diverse and include CNC machining, grinding, polishing, assembly, and inspection. They are particularly useful in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and medical device manufacturing where precision and delicate handling are paramount. The design of a vakuumspannsysteme can vary, from simple single-station units to complex multi-station tables, depending on the specific requirements of the application.