Bilz Tool Company offers its synchro generation chuck SCK designed for MQL applications. "Every year, the Volkswagen (VW) engine plant in Salzgitter, Germany, manufactures approximately 1.2 million engines," said a Bilz spokesperson. "Whether drilling, milling or tapping, Volkswagen attaches great importance to constant process optimization in manufacturing."
More than 50% of the production in Salzgitter, according to the spokesperson, is working with minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and dry processing for reasons of efficiency and environmental considerations. However, due to aerosol leakage from insufficiently sealed tapping chucks, a review of the MQL tools at VW was necessary in the tapping processes. "After searching for a technical solution, VW turned to Bilz for clamping tool expertise," said the spokesperson. "In close cooperation with VW Salzgitter, the specialists from Bilz developed a solution: the optimized synchro chuck SCK."
According to the spokesperson, toolholding tool solutions, developed in close cooperation with the customer, are the trademark of the Bilz Tool Company partners. "The optimization of SCK means that the 100% feed of the aerosol to the relevant points of the tool is guaranteed," said the spokesperson. "The advantages of this optimal usage of the aerosol up to the tip of the tool are increased tool life, lower cost per unit (CPU) and higher productivity of the machine due to fewer tool changes."
The optimal leak proofing of the SCK was demonstrated during the trial runs at VW Salzgitter, according to the spokesperson. The optimized SCK and the clamping chuck used up to that point were clamping onto a doublespindle machining center in direct comparison to one another. Components made of AISi9 were machined using a thread former from LTM-Fette at 6 bar pressure and maximum cutting speeds. "The difference can be seen with the naked eye," said Jürgen Binnebesel, Tool Technologist in Tool Management at VW Salzgitter. "A fine mist of aerosol droplets forms around the old chuck, but the optimized SCK runs flawlessly - no mist or moisture in the tool shank. The aerosol exits 100% where it should - at the tool."
"The leakproof quality of the SCK is unique in the market," said the spokesperson. "Technically, the SCK is a major step forward, not only due to the new sealing elements but also in terms of handling, construction and scope of application. The SCK is designed to be a universal chuck that covers several different versions required in the marketplace."
"The SCK as a combination solution is generally suitable for machines with MQL 1-channel, MQL 2-channel, IC up to 50 bar coolant pressure, and is also ideal for use in dry processing," said Uwe Leister, Product Manager at Bilz. "The SCK can also be used on machines with manual tool change. The chucks are available in sizes HSK32A, HSK40A, HSK50A, HSK63A and HSK80A as well as the various coolant tube versions required for the different systems. It is also possible to supply the SCK with a green ring as an alternative to the blue design."
"Another new development is the length adjustment on both sides integrated into the collet," said the spokesperson. "In the future, adjustment can be carried out quickly and easily either from the collet or from the shank side. This means that adjustment is carried out directly - there is no longer any need for time-consuming corrections."
According to the spokesperson, the construction guarantees process security, even with high idling speeds up to 115,000 RPM. "Solid mounting components and dimensionally stable, almost wear-free elastomers within the compact construction mean that high cutting quality, improved tool life and a simplified fitting procedure are achieved," said the spokesperson.
In addition to the SCK, Bilz also developed a BZ collet with integrated length adjustment.
"The greatest strength of the BZ line is the slim construction: optimal in narrow working conditions with interference contours, the positive fitting of the BZ collet in the housing of the SCK, and removing the risk of uncontrolled slipping of the collet during operation," said Hans-Otto Wenhake, Manager for Operative Tool Management at VW Salzgitter. "The BZ collet plays a significant role in the 100% leak proofing of the SCK and complements it well."
For more information contact:
Tim Fara
Managing Director
Bilz Tool Company, Inc.
1140 N. Main Street
Lombard, IL 60148
847-734-9390
info@bilzusa.com
www.bilzusa.com
www.volkswagen.de