Kistler is adding a compact, weight-optimized system to its portfolio: the new NCFC electromechanical joining module. This is a highly suitable solution for clinching and riveting applications, as well as for assembly and joining processes that require force-displacement monitoring.
The compact NCFC joining module features a high-traversing speed: this new servo press was optimized for clinching and riveting applications (Source: Kistler Group).
Another highlight of the new NCFC servo press: it needs little installation space, so weight and center of gravity design are optimized — and particularly for robotic arm applications.
Understanding clinching
Clinching (also known as press-joining) is an efficient and reliable joining process that’s becoming increasingly attractive to industrial manufacturers because it requires no additional components, such as rivets or bolts.
Unlike drilling or welding, clinching does not generate any heat input. Clinching also requires less energy and maintenance effort than spot welding. Depending on the material and process, the strength values of clinched joints are often equal or sometimes even higher, and the processes can be controlled with greater ease and accuracy.
Clinching delivers major benefits that are in line with key industrial trends: resource and energy efficiency, transparency, and automation, as well as extensive possibilities for joining components made of different materials.
The future of clinching is electromechanical
Kistler has partnered with BTM to present the first electromechanical joining module that is specifically optimized to meet the requirements of the clinching process. An electromechanically operated clinching system offers significant energy savings as compared to pneumatic or pneumohydraulic alternatives.
With the combination of Kistler’s technology with BTM’s application know-how in clinch tooling and pliers, customers can benefit from a servo press that offers high-precision, energy-efficient part joining, and assured quality.
In this solution, the servo press is controlled by the proven maXYmos NC process-monitoring system from Kistler. With continuous force-displacement monitoring by the integrated sensor, positions can be approached reliably, flexibly, and at high speed. This includes an additional traverse mode with safely reduced speed.
Due to the compact lightweight design, the servo press is ideal for use on robots and stationary or mobile portals. It has better dynamics than systems with comparable weight and similar dimensions. The optimized design allows short distances between workstations (small center distance). And thanks to the new hybrid cable solution, installation of the servo press has become even faster and easier to handle.
An example of a clinching pliers with NCFC servo press and BTM lightweight frame including clinching tool and maXYmos NC force displacement monitoring system
What’s more: visualization, control, and documentation with the new, maXYmos NC process-monitoring system does not require an additional industrial PC.
Overall, the new NCFC electromechanical joining module allows for improved quality and lower consumption of resources, as well as reduced CO2 emissions compared to conventional systems.
The new system ensures complete control and transparency for each individual production step at all times. The deflection compensation of the mounting bracket allows for the precise setting of the residual base thickness (as the quality characteristic).
The NCFC (2163A) joining module from Kistler will be offered in two versions with nominal joining forces of 55 kN and 80 kN, respectively. Along with the robotic arm application, the NCFC servo press can also be operated as a stationary version or as part of a complete clinching system from BTM.
Given the above advantages, electromechanical joining systems are expected to see significant growth in sectors such as electrical engineering, white goods, refrigeration, and air-conditioning technology.
Filed Under: Assembly automation, Fastening + joining