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The AutoGrip power clamp from Graham Engineering’s American Kuhne product line reportedly is safer and simpler to operate than manual devices and provides more repeatable clamping forces.

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Remotely Operated Extrusion Clamp Simplifies Changeovers, Reduces Risk

A new extrusion clamp with electro-mechanical actuation from Graham Engineering reportedly is safer and simpler to operate than manual devices and provides more repeatable clamping forces.

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The AutoGrip clamp is shown here mounted in the foreground at the end of the extruder. Image courtesy Graham Engineering.

The AutoGrip power clamp from Graham Engineering’s American Kuhne product line reduces downtime in installations with frequent screw, breaker plate, or tooling changes. It reduces the risk of injury or burns involved in manually releasing and tightening clamps during changeovers, according to Graham Engineering. The torque required in manual systems to sufficiently seal the clamp assembly is particularly dangerous with large extruder sizes. In addition, the manual clamps are typically heated to temperatures of greater than 400°F (200°C), increasing the risk of injury with traditional manual systems.

The AutoGrip clamp is remotely operated by a two-hand push-button controller for user safety and convenience. The drive motor and gear box are mounted above the clamp, protecting them from melt residue and making them easy to access for maintenance.

“We have engineered the AutoGrip system with simplicity and safety in mind,” said Michael Duff, Vice President of Sales and Service for Graham Engineering. “While manual clamps are difficult to operate and inherently dangerous, this new automatic system from Graham Engineering speeds up changeovers and is easy to maintain.”

The AutoGrip power clamp is available for extruder sizes from 3.5 to 6 in. (90 to 150 mm). In addition to applications involving new extruders, it can be retrofitted on many existing installations, said Graham Engineering.

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