IMTS 2016: Heimatec's U-tec Flexible Tool Adapter System Hits the Stage

Heimatec announces immediate availability of its popular U-tec flexible adapter system on all right-angle heads in the company's line. Models are now available for most popular lines of machine tools in the North American market. The company plans to include its U-tec adapter system on all angle heads, going forward, according to Hansen. He notes this development will especially provide the system's rigidity and quick-change capabilities to users doing deep hole drilling with extended tools. U-tec is the company's patented flexible tool adapter system that allows a standard ER output live tool to accept various adapters for different applications. This allows users the ability to have quick changeover of tools on almost any lathe or mill, using a single live tool, without having to commit to a quick-change system on the initial purchase. A facemill adapter, for example, can be quickly positioned into the standard holder, without the need for a completely new base being installed. This significantly reduces inventory costs as well as changeover time, for the busy shop. The unique collet nuts on the U-tec system have internal threading for rigid mounting and that this new tool adapter system enables the actual cutting tool to be brought into closer proximity to the bearing, thus further improving performance in use. This benefit results from the short and compact tool length design. Internal coolant up to 2000 psi (140 bar) is provided as standard. Every adapter in the U-tec system, complete with any necessary clamping nuts and adapters for arbor, Weldon, CAT 40 and CAT 50, is now available in shell mill, face mill, ER extension, side lock, shrink fit, hydraulic and blank styles. U-tec angle heads are compatible with most automatic tool changers, feature 360º manual positioning and include torque arms and a stop block. Torque rated up to 150 Nm (110 ft-lb). The U-tec system is available for all major turning machines on the market today. Heimatec currently manufactures over 10,000 live tool types and has a full inventory at its Chicago-area headquarters for North American operations.

Features:

• Extremly high power transmission by polygonal drive
• Use of u-tec with collet nuts, with internal and external threads
• Enormous saving potential for tooling, because with all standard heimatec holders standard collets or u-tec adapters can be used
• All u-tec adapters can be clamped with standard collet nuts
• Very high cost savings during operation by a minimum set up time