Mini Threaded Work Support

The mini threaded-body version shown here is the smallest hydraulic work support available anywhere. These work supports have considerable load capacity, yet have a very small M26x1.5 body thread and can be installed as close as 30mm between centers. Manifold mounting capability allows space-saving low-height installation. Available in the three versions shown below:

Support Action – Spring Extended 

Plunger is normally extended by light spring force. When the workpiece is loaded, its weight depresses the plunger to the proper height. When fluid pressure is applied, the precision sleeve grips the plunger, locking it securely. Locking height is repeatable within +/-.0002″. Such excellent repeatability is possible because of two design features: 1) a precision sliding-fit pressure sleeve holds the plunger absolutely vertical even while unlocked, avoiding any inaccuracy due to locking a tilted plunger, and 2) locking force is entirely radial, so the plunger remains absolutely stationary during the locking process.

Design Considerations – Do not use the plunger to lift loads, or support side loads. The support plunger must always be protected against penetration of contaminants by a contact bolt (furnished). When supporting underneath a clamp, use a Sequence Valve to delay clamping until the Work Support has reached sufficient load capacity to resist the clamping force. Support load capacity should be at least 2 times clamping force at all times, to resist not only static clamping force, but also dynamic forces due to clamping-arm momentum and machining forces.

Support Action – Fluid Advanced 

Plunger is normally retracted for clear workpiece loading and unloading. Applying fluid pressure gently advances the plunger to the workpiece, where it contacts with light spring force. As fluid pressure increases, the precision sleeve grips the plunger, locking it securely. The plunger retracts again when pressure is released. Locking height is repeatable within +/-.0002″. Such excellent repeatability is possible because of two design features: 1) a precision sliding-fit pressure sleeve holds the plunger absolutely vertical even while unlocked, avoiding any inaccuracy due to locking a tilted plunger, and 2) locking force is entirely radial, so the plunger remains absolutely stationary during the locking process.

Design Considerations – If the workpiece is light enough that plunger contact could lift it, use a Sequence Valve to delay advancing the work support until after the workpiece is clamped. Do not exceed maximum fluid flow rate in table; otherwise the support could lock prematurely before the plunger is fully extended. Do not use the plunger to lift loads, or support side loads. The support plunger must always be protected against penetration of contaminants by a contact bolt (furnished). When supporting underneath a clamp, use a Sequence Valve to delay clamping until the Work Support has reached sufficient load capacity to resist the clamping force. Support load capacity should be at least 2 times clamping force at all times, to resist not only static clamping force, but also dynamic forces due to clamping-arm momentum and machining forces.

Support Action – Air Advanced 

Plunger is normally retracted for clear workpiece loading and unloading. Applying air pressure gently advances the plunger to the workpiece, where it contacts with light force. A Fine Air-Pressure Regulator, Air Extractor Dryer, and Air Clamping Valve are required for air control (see Related Products below). Fine-tune contact force using the air regulator. When fluid pressure is applied, the precision sleeve grips the plunger, locking it securely. The plunger retracts again when fluid pressure and air pressure are released. These Work Supports can also be used as “Air Extended” supports by leaving air pressure constantly on.