Clamping cylinders hold or clamp a workpiece either directly using a pneumatically operated clamping element or using kinematics. The clamping element is swivelled out of the working area when it is inactive. They can realise very high holding forces with low energy input thanks to kinematics. At Festo, we differentiate between clamping modules, linear/swivel clamps and hinge cylinders.
Clamping modules are extremely flat diaphragm actuators with short strokes that can be used for a wide range of clamping tasks. Thanks to their flat design, the clamping modules can be used in many situations where other clamping cylinders reach their limits, such as in narrow spaces. And a clamping force of up to 1640 N can be achieved. There are round and elongated designs with which both flat as well as more linear clamping tasks can be implemented. The hermetically sealed design of the clamping modules also makes them suitable for harsh, dusty ambient conditions.
In our current range you will find clamping module EV – a short rodless cylinder with diaphragm. The EV is single-acting, has a reset function and is hermetically sealed.
With linear/swivel clamps, linear and swivel movements can be combined. This means that tools can be inserted and removed even beyond the clamping range. There are clamping tools for a number of applications; they reliably clamp all kinds of workpieces, from wood to sheet metal and even printed circuit boards. Linear/swivel clamps generate clamping forces of up to 1,600 N and clamping strokes of up to 50 mm. They can also be used in welding applications.
Festo currently has linear/swivel clamp CLR, which combines swivelling and clamping in a single work step. The swivel direction is adjustable, so the CLR can be adapted to individual conditions. The CLR is also available with a clamping finger as an accessory as well as with dust and welding spatter protection.
Hinge cylinders are special clamping cylinders that are characterised by a rod clevis at the end of the piston rod and a hinged fork at the bearing cap. This simplifies mounting in clamping devices. An option with clamping unit can also prevent the piston rod from slipping in unpressurised conditions. Hinge cylinders generate clamping forces of up to 3016 N and are particularly suitable for clamping components in welding processes. They clamp and hold components extremely securely and reliably.
The Festo hinge cylinder DW with integrated restrictors and end-position cushioning is ideal for clamping components in welding processes. The hinged fork on the bearing cap makes the DW very easy to mount. In the Asian region, the DW is the automotive standard for body-in-white production.