Replacing downtime with production timeReplacing downtime with production time

Tooling Technology is marketing a line of quick-change devices to address Lean manufacturing among molders. The Segen Quick Change system replaces the older nuts, bolts, fasteners, and hand tools required, which significantly reduces the time wasted on industrial setups, changeovers, workholding, clamping, fixturing, and alignment.

Jeff Barker, sales director for Tooling Technology, said that the Segen Quick Change system can be used with CNC machining, robotics, milling and tooling changeovers—“any place you use currently nuts and bolts,” explains Barker. “We have injection molders use them in the platens, and thermoformers use them as well to save time in tooling changes.”

Segen Quick Change devices consist of a steel cylinder lock and a corresponding knob. The cylinder lock, designed to receive and mate with a conical male knob, locates and positions the know to within 0.0002 inch with a holding force of up to 25,000 lb per device, depending on cylinder specifications. Positively locked in a static state, the cylinder lock actuates when air pressure is applied to release or receive the knob. The cylinder locks stay mechanically locked until pneumatic pressure is applied to automatically release them to ensure a secure, fail-safe hold, even if pneumatic pressure is lost.

“Our  strong, precise and reliable cylinders and mating knobs pay for themselves quickly by replacing down-time with production time,” said Barker.  “These innovative and practical products will reduce downtime, improve quality, eliminate waste, enhance efficiency, and increase your overall profitability.”

Tooling Technology is the parent company of the Segen Company, and is a manufacturer of many different types of forming tools and molds specializing in large cast aluminum tooling, molds, patterns and fixtures for numerous industries and products including: medical equipment, dunnage trays & pallets, hot tubs, spas, bathtubs, showers, swimming pools & steps, luggage, point-of -purchase displays, boats, canoes, kayaks, agricultural, ATV’s, golf cars, off-road vehicles, defense systems, appliances, lawn & garden products, racing car bodies & windscreens, fountains, and many other custom outdoor, recreational & consumer products. —Clare Goldsberry