Collet Closers Use Quick-Change, Vulcanized Collets

Lexair’s Flex-Grip stationary collet closers use quick-change, vulcanized collet heads and are hydraulically actuated with pressure-to-open, pressure-to-close (no springs) while holding the collet and part in a fixed position. Maximum input pressure is 2,000 psi.

According to the company, vulcanized collet heads have a wider compression range than conventional spring collets, enabling stock variation. A ±0.02" diameter range is possible while still maintaining parallel grip on the part. This parallel grip minimizes stock push back and requires less drawbar force to equal the same clamping force of conventional spring collets, the company says.

The collet closers are available in 42-mm and 65-mm sizes and have low profiles of 2.75" and 3.17", respectively, enabling more Z-axis clearance to accommodate a wider range of part sizes. The collet closers can be used individually or together on a fixture plate for multiple-part machining. Four-axis machining can be achieved when installed on a rotary plate trunnion.

The collet closers were designed around Hardinge’s Flex-C collet heads but also accept common vulcanized collets used in lathe applications. They can be used horizontally or vertically on mill tables, tombstones and rotary trunnions.