Powered by "Programmed Metal"; Ideal for Palletized Tooling; Stays Clamped When Disconnected
Chicago, OH--September 9, 1998--Jergens, Inc. today introduced the first clamp powered by "programmed metal" technology. The new ElectraLock™ Micro Clamps do not rely on hydraulic power, but instead use "shape memory" alloy. The metal actuator expands and contracts due to a crystalline phase transformation.
"These new clamps eliminate the need for hydraulics, which significantly simplifies power clamping," said Jack H. Schron Jr., president of Jergens. "By eliminating the support equipment necessary for hydraulics, this new technology makes setting up and maintaining power clamps a lot easier. The new clamps are plugged into a standard electrical socket. When the operator needs to move the clamping fixture, he just unplugs it."
The clamps' portability makes them ideal for palletized fixturing applications. Because they utilize electric power to reopen, they remain securely clamped when disconnected. Additionally, the clamps' waterproof construction and 110V power requirements provide them with unmatched flexibility within a shop. Clamping pressure is 750 lbs.
The "shape memory" actuator technology behind the clamp is based on the phase transformation of a nickel titanium alloy as it moves from Martensitic to Austenitic phase. This transformation has been refined to produce a trainable, repeatable, and predictable result. The actuator within the clamp works when the alloy is electrically heated, expanding the material, releasing clamping pressure. This design, utilizing electric power to open the clamp, provides reliable clamping pressure when the clamp is disconnected.
Shape memory metal technology has been successfully employed in critical aerospace applications such a retention pins for the Mars Observer spacecraft's GRS instrument as well as release devices for NASA spacecraft.
PRODUCT FACT SHEET
| PRODUCT: |
Jergens ElectraLock™ Micro Clamps employ proprietary "programmed metal" technology for power. They eliminate the expense and complexity of hydraulics, providing secure powered clamping with "plug and play" convenience. |
| FEATURES: |
- Designed for industrial use.
- 750 lbs. clamping power.
- Power Source 110V single phase. 20 amp socket.
- Ideal for palletized tooling; maintains clamping pressure when disconnected from electricity. (Requires electricity to re-open).
- Totally quiet.
|
| CLAMPING SPEED: |
30-45 Seconds |
| SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE: |
$100 - 150 |
| PATENTS: |
U.S. and worldwide patents pending. |
| DISTRIBUTION: |
Call 1-800 JERGENS (1-800-537-4367) or 1-216-486-5540 for the distributor nearest you. Over 130 locations worldwide. |
| COMPANY BACKGROUND: |
Jergens Inc. is a major manufacturer of tooling components, founded in 1942. The company is a major manufacturer of quick change tooling products, including the BallLock™ and StayLock® clamping systems. |
|
|
Jergens is located at 15700 S. Waterloo Rd., Cleveland, OH 44110 USA.
Telephone: 1-800-537-4367, 1-216-486-5540. Fax: 1-216-481-6193.
Web: www.jergensinc.com. Email: Email: tim.golling@jergensinc.com or info@jergensinc.com
BallLock™ and ElectraLock™ are trademarks of Jergens Inc. StayLock® is a registered trademark of Jergens Inc.