Forming tools weighing 4 metric tons are not easy to change. To help operators complete this task more quickly and safely, Roemheld is introducing new transport and clamping technology, as well as clamping elements with an extended adjustment range.
Three new products for tool change in sheet metal forming are on display at the Roemheld booth: an electrically driven tool change cart, a push-pull platform for industrial trucks, and a clamping element adjustable by over 30 mm. Other exhibits demonstrate solutions for automatic clamping and mechanical securing of tools.
© Roemheld
Electric Tool Change Cart for
Loads
up to 1,000 kg
The RWA 1000 Elmo “electric motion” tool change cart transports press and stamping tools weighing up to 1 metric ton. Both the drive system and the lifting function are fully electric. According to the manufacturer, there is currently no comparable tool change cart available that combines electric propulsion with electrohydraulic lifting. The price is said to be comparable to that of similar models without electric propulsion.
A battery-powered motor moves the cart at speeds of up to 4 km/h. A double-scissor lift raises the load electrohydraulically to table heights between 620 and 1,485 mm. This allows tools to be picked up, raised to the insertion height of a press or punch press, and docked there.
The machine is operated via a multifunctional drive handle equipped with a continuously variable drive control, a safety limit switch, a signal horn, and an emergency stop. The stainless steel roller table accommodates tools with dimensions up to 1,000 × 700 mm. With lateral overhang, dimensions up to 1,000 × 900 mm are possible.
Adjustable retaining strips and side rails prevent tools from slipping or falling. A safety docking rail is used to position the tool at the correct insertion height. The manufacturer offers the indexing table in several configurations, including models with lowerable rollers or a swiveling bridge.
Push-pull platform for industrial trucks
Roemheld is also showcasing a new push-pull platform for tool changes using industrial trucks. The platform can be mounted on an electric pallet truck or forklift. It features its own electric drive and operates independently of the vehicle. A push-pull chain pulls the tool onto the platform and then pushes it into the press. The control unit is integrated into the platform and can optionally be connected to the lifting device. The first model, designated RWA 1600 Elmo, is designed for tools weighing up to 1.6 tons. According to the company, further versions for loads up to 2 and 4 tons are planned.
Clamping element adjustable over 30 mm
Until now, different clamping elements or shims were required for different clamping edge heights. With the new hollow-piston clamping element, called the Flex type, the clamping range can be adjusted by more than 30 mm using a knurled nut. The stroke is 7 mm. A scale indicates the set clamping range.
This allows a clamping element to be used for different clamping edge heights. This reduces the number of variants that need to be kept in stock and simplifies tool changes.
Depending on the model, the clamping force is 60 or 104 kN. Variants are available for operating pressures of 245 and 400 bar. According to Roemheld, there is currently no comparable product with these features available on the market.
The Flexline-R quick-clamping system is used for automatically clamping tools of various sizes to the press ram. Hollow-piston cylinders are used for this purpose. The version revised in 2025 features a welded stainless steel tension-and-thrust chain. It also includes reinforced stops, additional status monitoring options, and a redesigned emergency control system. The system is specifically designed for automated press lines with frequent die changes.
© Roemheld
Mechanically Locked Arch Clamping Elements
The product line also includes double-acting arch clamping elements with an integrated locking pin. They are available in six versions. The clamping and release pressures are both 200 bar. Depending on the version, the clamping force ranges from 50 to 450 kN, and the maximum allowable process force is 620 kN. The arched clamping bolt rests on a straight clamping edge. This redirects the horizontally acting force and transfers it nearly perpendicular to the clamping surface.
A mechanical lock keeps the clamping bolt in the clamping position even if pressure drops. This prevents the upper tool from falling. A side-mounted position control is available as an option. It detects the release and clamping positions and signals when the clamping position is exceeded. With position control, the clamping elements are rated for temperatures up to 100 °C. Without position control, the standard temperature resistance is up to 160 °C. Versions rated for up to 250 °C are available upon request.
Magnetic clamping system with clamping force indicator
In addition, Roemheld presents the R-Mag electropermanent magnetic clamping system for sheet metal forming. It is designed for tools of various sizes and geometries. Thanks to its electropermanent operating principle, the magnetization is retained after switching without a continuous power supply, ensuring the tool remains clamped even during a power outage.
The system features a clamping force indicator and interchangeable magnetic poles. According to Roemheld, there is currently no other system on the market that combines both of these features. Interchangeable magnetic poles allow individual components to be replaced during maintenance, thereby minimizing downtime.
EuroBLECH:
Hall 27, Booth K65
Web:
www.roemheld.de
