There’s truth in the proverb “Just because something looks like something doesn’t mean it is.” Or put another way, “Things are not always what they seem.” The point? Even though the REGO-FIX powRgrip® toolholding system might bear a passing resemblance to a hydraulic toolholder system on the outside, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, powRgrip is a press-fit technology-based system.
What powRgrip® is
At its heart, powRgrip® is a mechanical press-fit system with three basic components – holders, collets and press-fit assembly mounting units – that is as simple as it is precise. Operators insert a tool into the collet and then put the collet into a powRgrip® holder. The collet’s high-precision tapers match equally exact tapers within the holder, and the assembly is placed into a tabletop toolsetting unit that exerts up to nine tons of force, creating up to 1,100 Nm of clamping torque on the tool. That’s almost twice as much transferable torque as other systems provide.
It’s that easy. The tool is ready to use in 10 seconds or less.
What powRgrip® is not
The powRgrip® system is not a hydraulic toolholding solution that uses any form of expansion to secure tools in the holder. While similar in exterior appearance, hydraulic toolholders rely on a sleeve or membrane inside the housing that presses against the tool shank by hydraulic force. Operators adjust a set screw that drives a piston in the toolholder, and the piston exerts pressure on a hydraulic chamber that forces the fluid through the chamber, expanding the sleeve against the tool to secure it in the holder.
Why not hydraulic toolholding
While hydraulic toolholding systems provide consistent clamping force throughout the holder, they are limited by their very nature. Hydraulic toolholders rely on very high pressure within the system. That increases the risk of leaks that can seriously affect gripping power. Hydraulic systems, while effective for drilling operations, also struggle with milling due to the hydraulic bladder that makes the system work. The additional side load during aggressive milling can deform the bladder and cause a multitude of issues ranging from a substantial loss in rigidity to poor Total Indicator Runout (TIR). Combined with the effects of high-speed and aggressive machining, these factors can significantly impact a hydraulic toolholder’s performance. Excessive vibration and chatter, poor surface finishes, diminished tool life and tool crashes are directly caused by toolholder insecurity.
What powRgrip® means to you
The taper-to-taper mechanics of powRgrip’s® press-fit system provide extremely precise and consistent performance, even in high-speed and aggressive machining. TIR is typically less than 3 μm, and the system’s unique design virtually eliminates vibration. Over time, the process of repeatedly pressing the collet into the holder burnishes the holder cavity to a more polished surface finish that actually increases overall accuracy and precision.
When it comes to high-quality toolholding, it pays to look twice, because second chances are often costly. While REGO-FIX powRgrip® may resemble other toolholding systems, all other similarities end there. For speed, precision, reliability and consistency, make REGO-FIX powRgrip® your first choice.