Magnetic chucks have proven themselves to be a viable alternative to mechanical workholding methods and their use has become more and more common within a number of different metalworking industries.
There are a few different forms and varieties of magnetic chucks, which ensures their compatibility with many types of metal pieces, and while traditionalists may initially find it strange to be able to work without the need for mechanical holding or clamping while metal shaping, a professional’s job can be made a lot easier by removing physical clamping.
The use of magnetic chucks brings with it a number of distinct advantages besides just using the magnetic force from permanent magnets to successfully achieving chucking.
Consistent clamping and holding pressure
One of the most significant benefits of making use of magnetic chucks is the fact that they provide a consistent clamping force and holding pressure. This guarantees the user can maintain a secure hold on the workpiece as there will be no variation whatsoever in the amount of tightness.
Maximum safety
The overall safety of the entire industrial process is improved because of the constant gripping power level of the magnetic chuck, something which is not the case with mechanical clamping, and means that workers do not have to worry about workpieces falling down onto them.
There is no need to use an electric current with magnetic chucks, which also makes them safer to use.
The process is much faster
The uniform holding also means that there is a reduction in the vibration caused by the machine, which allows for much faster feeds at higher speeds without much in the way of noise or vibration. This not only results in an improvement in accuracy but will also extend the life of the tool being used.
Flexibility
Any ferromagnetic workpiece, regardless of dimension, shape or size, can be made use of as a magnetic chuck.
Low maintenance
There is little to no maintenance required for magnetic chucks for the simple reason that there are no bolts, clamps or any moving parts.
Chuck damage reduction
Many mechanical clamps can distort workpieces that are particularly sensitive to pressure, but with magnetic chunks the entire workpiece is held in a manner that ensures the whole body receives an equal amount of pressure. This means that there is minimal chance that the workpiece will receive any damage as a result.
The continual machining of faces also means that there is no longer any need to stop and have the workpiece relocated. There is also no chance of thermal deformation or heat distortion as no heat is emitted by magnetic chucks.
Reduction in operational costs
Any process that involves the use of multiple parts that have varying dimensions will require a great deal of time setting up and getting ready for the machining process when using standard mechanical clamping and fixtures. This additional setup time also mean that the productivity of the whole operation is then inevitably reduced, but making use of magnetic devices instead cuts down that setup time and therefore increases productivity.
Magnetic chucks provide everything needed to allow professionals to successfully perform safe and powerful workholding.