Metal Forming Application Note Progressive Die Slug Out ... · PDF fileMetal Forming...

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01_136614_Slugout_Monitoring • 201303 Metal Forming Application Note Progressive Die Slug Out Monitoring To avoid costly damage to the die, it is imperative that all slugs be verified as having been successfully ejected. Balluff offers a range of sensor solutions to ensure that slugs have correctly cleared the die and that scrap material has been deposited into the correct receptacle. Need: 1. Slug ejection verification 2. Effective scrap management 3. Final part configuration verification Balluff Slug Out Monitoring Solutions Balluff inductive proximity sensors, available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes from very small tubular (3mm) and up through larger “flatpacks”, can be integrated into the system for verifying slug-out. Here a tubular inductive sensor (1) senses full punch retraction, while a BGL self-contained thru-beam fork sensor (2) and an inductive flatpack sensor (3) verify slug ejection through plexiglass tubes. Balluff BWL self contained thru-beam sensors have built-in “fiber optic” technology combining an amplifier and a thru-beam red, infrared or laser emitter-receiver pair that can monitor “slug-out” applications if the mechanical layout of the die permits. BWL angle sensors shoot a beam from corner to corner. Angle sensors allow for greater placement flexibility where BGL fork sensors cannot be used. Here a BWL angle sensor verifies the final configuration of a part after slugs have been ejected. Please Order From: Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone 6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAX Indianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

Transcript of Metal Forming Application Note Progressive Die Slug Out ... · PDF fileMetal Forming...

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lugout_

Monitoring •

201303

Metal Forming Application Note

Progressive Die Slug Out MonitoringTo avoid costly damage to the die, it is imperative that all slugs be verifi ed

as having been successfully ejected. Balluff offers a range of sensor

solutions to ensure that slugs have correctly cleared the die and that scrap

material has been deposited into the correct receptacle.

Need:

1. Slug ejection verifi cation

2. Effective scrap management

3. Final part confi guration verifi cation

Balluff Slug Out Monitoring Solutions

Balluff inductive proximity sensors, available in a wide variety of

sizes and shapes from very small tubular (3mm) and up through larger

“fl atpacks”, can be integrated into the system for verifying slug-out. Here

a tubular inductive sensor (1) senses full punch retraction, while a BGL

self-contained thru-beam fork sensor (2) and an inductive fl atpack sensor

(3) verify slug ejection through plexiglass tubes.

Balluff BWL self contained thru-beam sensors have built-in “fi ber

optic” technology combining an amplifi er and a thru-beam red, infrared or

laser emitter-receiver pair that can monitor “slug-out” applications if the

mechanical layout of the die permits. BWL angle sensors shoot a beam

from corner to corner. Angle sensors allow for greater placement fl exibility

where BGL fork sensors cannot be used. Here a BWL angle sensor

verifi es the fi nal confi guration of a part after slugs have been ejected.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Bend Angle MeasurementAccurate measurement of component bend angles is critical, especially

in progressive stamping procedures. Each bend angle can affect the

accuracy and tolerances of the next metal forming step. Highly accurate,

durable, and repeatable sensors can monitor the quality of each process

step in the metal forming operations, verifying that certain profi les, angles,

or features have been properly made.

Need:

Verifi cation that angles on parts produced by the stamping die are within

specifi cation.

Balluff Bend Angle Solutions

Balluff BAW analog inductive proximity sensors are simple, yet

highly accurate analog inductive sensors. They are perfect low-cost

solutions for measuring bend angles, verifying formed features, or

checking for die or press parallelism. With voltage or current output

equating to the distance of a metal target to the sensing face, these

sensors are so accurate; they can even measure thermal growth. Over

13 models are available to meet most any metal forming measurement

requirement. Here a BAW has spotted an incorrectly formed angle on a

microchip bracket progressive die.

Balluff’s BOD 26K analog laser sensors are highly accurate, as

low as 20 micron resolution, Class II laser measurement devices. With

operating ranges between 45 and 85 mm, they are perfect for use

where high precision, tight tolerance and longer distance measurement

is required. Bend angles, weld seams, metal-formed feature detection

and validation, plus other quality inspection steps can be reliably

accomplished with the BOD 26K.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Progressive Die Strip Feed MonitoringAll automated metal forming presses must have material entering the press

in a constant, specifi cally aligned manner to maximize active press time

and parts production. State of the art use of high performance sensors is

needed to monitor the strip in motion to reduce misfeeds and downtime,

extend die life, and prevent needless overworking of the press itself.

Need:

1. Sense metal stock presence and end of strip on roll/blank feed mechanism

2. Prevent strip misalignment

3. Confi rm sheet thickness, preventing double or multiple blank feeding

4. Detect pilot hole(s) and insure correct nesting

Balluff Strip Feed Monitoring Sensor Solutions

Balluff self contained thru-beam sensors, such as BGL fork sensors, have

built-in “fi ber optic” technology combining an amplifi er and a thru-beam red,

infrared or laser emitter-receiver pair that can monitor many aspects of strip feed.

In this example, the BGL is monitoring sheet feed and correct nesting of the sheet

in the die by checking for buckling of the sheet.

Balluff analog inductive sensors can monitor thickness of the material being

fed into a stamping press. These highly accurate, robust analog output inductive

sensors are set up in opposing mode with the feed stock moving in between.

Output parameters are programmed into the analog card of the press controls

correlating to the desired sheet thickness being run on that particular press. A

deviation in voltage or current signal indicates that there is a change in material

thickness or a double blank present. The press can be stopped until corrective

measures are taken.

Balluff inductive proximity sensors are available in a wide variety of sizes and

shapes from very small tubular (3mm) and up through larger “fl atpacks”. They

can be integrated into the system for sensing dead stops, pilot hole monitoring, or

monitoring the moving strip.

In this example an inductive proximity sensor, embedded in the die itself is used to

verify that a hole has been punched in each bracket being made in the progressive

die prrocess.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Part-Out SensingStamping dies continuously eject fi nished parts onto conveyors or into bins.

To avoid damage to the die and the part, it is critical to verify that parts have

been successfully ejected.

Need:

Ensure that fi nal parts exit the die cleanly.

Balluff Parts-Out Sensor Solutions

Balluff Dynamic Optical Windows (BOW A) provide a unique “on the fl y”, solution

for verifi cation of parts ejection from stamping dies – even at high speeds and

random orietations and trajectories (both signal duration and sensitivity adjustments

are provided on the sensor). Stationary tubes or funnels can be installed within the

BOW A for “forced directional aiming” or fi nished parts.

Balluff’s “self contained thru beam” BGL fork sensors offer a unique solution

for parts-out verifi cation. Unlike fi ber optic sensors that must be used with a

separate amplifi er, the emitter/receiver of the BGL device is contained in a solid, rigid

metal frame that never goes out of alignment. The “fork” design, which comes in 5

to 220 mm widths, straddles the area where fi nished parts are ejected and verifi ed.

BGL’s are available in infrared, visible red and laser light sources (down to .03mm

resolution).

Balluff’s low cost photoelectric family offers some of the most cost-effective,

versatile solutions for a host of metal forming parts-out operations. Available in

either metal or rugged plastic enclosures and straight or right angle confi gurations,

there is bound to be a model in the Balluff offering that meets your metal forming

needs. Diffuse-refl ective, retro refl ective, and thru-beam energized pairs in infrared,

visible red or laser emissions are available at very attractive prices.

Balluff’s BIL Sensor is a unique rectangular long-range inductive sensor (35mm

x 35mm x 100, 120, and 150 mm) that’s ideal for many metallic parts-out sensing

applications. Two models have adjustable sensing ranges from 5 to 45mm and

another model has a fi xed 50 mm range, making it ideal for both large and small

metal-formed components.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Weld Seam Verifi cation with ColorWeld seams must be continuous and of suffi cient strength and quality to

meet the requirements of the application. Monitoring the presence and

attributes of weld seams should always be an integral part of the welding

process.

Need:

To monitor the presence and verify the quality of weld seams on

fi nished metal parts.

Balluff Weld Seam Sensing Solutions:

It is possible to verify weld seams on fi nished metal-formed parts through

several sensing technologies. For example, weld seams can be detected

with highly accurate, dependable, Balluff full color sensors.

Color sensors, keyed to the coloration of the metal where a weld has

taken place, can easily measure weld position and quality parameters. In

this example, a Balluff BFS 26K detects the weld seam on an indexed

exhaust pipe in preparation for a hole to be bored in a specifi c position

relative to the seam. Up to three colors (or shades of a color) can be

accurately programmed into this one unit. With three color channels,

pulse stretcher time delay, key lock and a synchronization input or

blanking feature that allows extensive application fl exibility. Using

two easy-to-use teach buttons on this compact sensor, welds can be

accurately and dependently recognized.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Non-Contact Connectivity for Die StampingSensors monitoring a stamping application need to have power and

communication connectivity to the control platform. Cables from these

sensors are usually routed and concentrated at an electrical port junction

box, which in turn requires a mechanical connection to be made from

that connection point to a mating cable on the press. These cables are

often prone to failure during operation due to motion fatigue. Wires and

connectors are crushed, and/or damaged during storage, retrieval and

setup.

Need:

Mating cables and connectors can be stripped from the tool if not discon-

nected before unloading a die set from the press. To connect die-mounted

sensors to the overall control solution without unnecessary complexity and

premature failure of the connection solution.

Balluff Non-contact Coupler Systems: The Answer to Die Stamping Connectivity Problems

In this example, a Balluff Non-contact Coupler is providing connectivity to

sensors monitoring various aspects of a typical tool. Power and sensing

information is being passed through the air gap between the base and

remote head. The remote accepts up to eight inputs from any DC sensor

regardless of sensor brand. The inputs are routed to the press control,

industrial PC, or PLC.

Balluff non-contact couplers come in various shapes and sizes to match

the specifi c needs of the stamping application, and to provide maximum

placement fl exibility when the die is positioned for production. When the

stamping die is placed on the press, care must be taken to ensure proper

alignment. With this system installed, the base can be easily placed in

position relative to the remote when the die is slid into place on the press,

eliminating the risk of crushed wires and connectors. Many users install the base in a common area of the bolster. Using this

system all sensors on the die are automatically connected to the overall system without a hardwired connection that is prone

to damage.

With Parallel Wiring

▪ 8 inputs

▪ 24 VDC 0.5A power

▪ 12 conductor cable

With Industrial Network

▪ Up to 4 analog plus 8 inputs

▪ 16 inputs plus diagnostics

▪ 24 VDC 0.5A power

▪ EIP, DNT, PNT, PBS, CCL, ECT

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Stamping Press Shut Height MonitoringMany existing stamping presses do not have any form of shut height

measurement device to reference the ram position. Retrofi tting presses

with a shut height position feedback device provides a wealth of benefi ts –

including more precision-stamped pieces, longer die life, a more controlled

press operation, and shorter set up time.

Need:

To know exactly the amount of shut height needed with every set up so that

the die and press will be producing the highest quality parts with the least

amount of stress on the die and press.

Balluff Micropulse® Linear Position Transducers for Shut Height Measurement

This illustration shows a Balluff magnetostrictive transducer and digital

display installed on a press, measuring and reporting the exact position

of the ram. Magnetostrictive technology involves a magnet sliding along

a rigidly positioned vaveguide. This provides highly accurate positioning

information with resolution down to 5 micrometers. Available in a full

range of confi gurations, Balluff Micropulse® transducers are absolute

devices. If power is removed, they remember their position and no

rehoming is required.

If your press does not have this feature built into the basic machinery,

there is a risk of premature wear every time a new stamping job is set up.

Tape measures don’t cut it when hundreds of pounds of unnecessary

overpressure can be applied, even when a stroke is almost within its

optimum limits. To avoid the miscalculation that results in die deforming or press lock up, use a sensor to pinpoint your ram

position.

Linear Transducers - Provide Measurement Feedback and Electronic ReferenceThe body of a magnetostrictive transducer is mounted to the press frame. A mechanical arm that moves a magnet

(captive on a track or fl oating above the surface of a profi le-style transducer) along the distance of the transducer provides

continuous analog feedback (typically 0-10V or 4-20mA output) to provide precise distance feedback. The electronic

feedback is translated into inches or millimeters and a correct reference shut height dimension is displayed. Transducers are

manufactured in lengths to match all stamping stroke requirements, from a few inches to over 12 feet.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Weld Seam Verifi cation with MeasurementWeld seams must be continuous and of suffi cient strength and quality to

meet the requirements of the application. Monitoring the presence and

attributes of weld seams should always be an integral part of the welding

process.

Need:

To monitor the presence and verify the quality of weld seams on fi nished

metal parts.

Balluff Weld Seam Sensing Solutions

It is possible to verify weld seams on fi nished metal-formed parts through

several sensing technologies. For example, even very fi ne weld seam

profi les can be accurately detected and measured using Balluff’s BOD

26K analog laser sensors.

Analog laser sensors can be used to monitor weld quality. In this

example, a Balluff BOD 26K analog laser photoelectric sensor discovers

a break in a weld seam. Often anomalies such as these exhibit minor

deviations only laser beam technology can detect. Balluff BOD 26K

analog laser sensors are perfect for identifying and measuring small

deviations because its small diameter and stable laser beam delivers tight

resolution (20 and 80 microns in two separate models). They can be placed strategically in the metal forming/automated

welding process to detect virtually any weld anomaly.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Press ParallelismWhen a press is out of parallel, or if its dies are not parallel to each other,

uneven forces can cause bad parts to be produced, premature or even

catastrophic press damage, or premature die wear and/or irreparable

damage to the dies themselves. These are costly, time consuming,

preventable, and unnecessary conditions given today’s sensor technology.

Need:

To avoid damage by making sure that the die and the press are parallel at all

times

Balluff Sensor Solutions for Press and Die Parallelism

Several different sensor technologies can provide all the information needed to prevent damage to a stamping operation.

Low-cost solutions can help produce a higher quality part and are an easy to install preventative measure against costly press

or die damage – and the resulting down time. For example, by strategically placing a sensor on each of the four corners of

a die, it is possible to measure closure distance (the distance between the sensor and the die) and accurately determine if

the die or the press itself is out of the parallel. Sensors can also discover if a scrap of metal or slug is raising the feed stock,

which is also a dangerous condition.

In this example, four highly precise Balluff analog proximity sensors are mounted

on the four corners of a die, detecting a small fl ange which has been installed on

the corresponding corner of the upper part of the die. The sensors will only read

the distance at the last 10 mm of die travel, but those readings are suffi cient

to prevent any damage to the press or die. The information from the four

sensors goes directly to the press controller to be automatically compared with

each other. Any discrepancy will cause the controller to stop the press, thus

protecting the entire application.

In this example, four Balluff Micropulse® non-contact absolute position

feedback linear transducers are positioned at the corners of a die. They derive

their positioning information from the magnets affi xed to the upper part of the

die. These transducers are longer and therefore track the press on a longer

portion of its stroke. However, they are also highly accurate and act in the same

manner as the analog proximity sensors in the fi rst example. Information is sent

back to the press controller and automatically compared, providing press and

die protection from non-parallel set up.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Die TrackingRFID has become a critical component in the stamping process to help

prevent die crashes, which cause thousands of dollars in damage and lost

production time. In addition to identifying the correct die for the correct

operation, the technology is also used to track the item as it is moved from

place to place so it can be readily located. Specifi c data is stored directly on

the tag which is fi xed on the die and includes information such as identifying

information, shut height settings, usage history, maintenance history, etc.

An RFID solution offers the ultimate visibility into the stamping process.

Need:

1. Reliably track, measure, and characterize die use

2. Simplify the stamping process

3. Eliminate hazards and opportunities for failure

Balluff RFID Traceability Solutions for the Stamping Process

The Balluff RFID solution is providing a hardware system that fi ts into the current

operating environment. The widest array of connectivity options, read ranges as

close as 1 millimeter and as far away as 6 meters, and the technical know-how

to assist with the most unique applications.

For large footprint stamping applications the BIS U, UHF System, is capable of

reading tags over a distance of several meters. The tag is fi xed directly on the

die and is read initially to identify the correct die for the application. When correct

identifi cation is confi rmed the die is loaded into the press. From there, data such

as corresponding shut height settings can be read from the tag and confi rmed

before the process starts. Ultimately, the traceability process prevents costly

crashes resulting in thousands of dollars in damage and long down-times.

In a similar process, the BIS M high frequency system is utilized when the distance between the tag and the reader is relatively

close. Capable of reading tags out to 17 inches, the BIS M system is also capable of running off the same function block as

the sensors and other devices that may be required in the stamping process via IO-Link connection. This allows for expanded

network architecture, which limits the number of runs to the controls cabinet and makes managing the devices a smarter and

more effi cient process.

Balluff has solved some of the most complex problems in manufacturing by listening to customer feedback and responding

with innovative products specifi c to the application. 30 years of RFID product development and manufacturing has solidifi ed

Balluff’s role as leader in the global industrial RFID market.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Weld Seam Detection

Detecting weld seams for their elimination is as important as for their

quality. A seam entering a process when it’s not supposed to can create a

dangerous condition affecting the life of an application.

Need:

To monitor the presence and verify the quality of weld seams on

fi nished metal parts.

Balluff Weld Seam Sensing Solutions

It is possible to verify weld seams on fi nished metal-formed parts through

several sensing technologies. For example, the telltale mass of a weld seam

can be identifi ed, verifi ed, and measured with Balluff BAW inductive analog

sensing technologies.

Balluff BAW analog inductive feedback sensors can precisely sense the

differing mass of a weld seam. When placed over a target, the amount

of metal under the sensor’s active face triggers a voltage change, tied

to the amount of mass in the weld seam. A set of output parameters

for a customer’s particular material pattern can be programmed into the

manufacturing process. Any value too high or too low indicates a deviation

from specifi cation or a material anomaly.

In this example, a Balluff BAW sensor monitors sheet steel in a continuous process. Its three set point capability allows it to

monitor the sheet thickness even while the sheet is fl exing and also detect a tack weld joining two sheets. The difference

in top surface height triggers the system to shear the area where the tack weld exists to prevent the weld from entering the

manufacturing process.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Parts Presence Verifi cation in Automatic and Semiautomatic Welding EnvironmentsEven skilled and experienced operators can sometimes overlook a missing

part. Using sensors to verify parts presence can add signifi cant productivity

and cost improvements in both automatic and semiautomatic operations.

This is a key function in error proofi ng.

Need:

Verify that parts are nested and clamped correctly in automatic and

semiautomatic welding operations.

Balluff Parts Presence Verifi cation Soultions

In both automatic and semiautomatic weld processes, Balluff

Slagmaster™ coated inductive proximity sensors assure operators

that parts are always present, correctly clamped and/or nested

ready for welding to occur. Balluff’s Slagmaster coating protects

the sensor with an extra thermal barrier of protection that resists

weld slag and spatter build up, and eliminated false triggering of

sensors due to accumulated weld debris; all the while facilitating

weld maintenance procedures.

In this example, the operator deploys swing clamps in

semiautomatic welding process to immobilize the parts to be

joined. Sensors validate that the components are present and

clamped properly. In an error proofi ng situation, sensors can be

wired in an “AND” mode. Thus, if one screw is missing, a signal to

weld will not be triggered, automatically preventing rework or a bad

part ending up in a customer’s hands.

Throughout the weld process, Balluff inductive proximity sensors

validate that components are present and continue to be nested

properly, while their Slagmaster coatings contribute to long sensor

life, decreased down time, and a more effi cient production process. Screw Present

Screw Missing

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Clamping Verifi cation in the Welding EnvironmentCorrect clamping of metal components to be welded together in automatic

and semiautomatic welding processes often requires confi rmation by

sensors that the components are in the correct position throughout the

actual welding process and that the clamps used in this procedure are in

the correct extended or retracted position.

Need:

Selection of the right sensors to validate proper “clamp-unclamp” position

of grippers used to hold the metal components together before, during, and

after the weld process occurs.

Balluff Clamping Verifi cation Sensors

Hydraulic or Pneumatic Clamping SystemsHydraulic and pneumatic cylinder systems have been used for years in

many industries to position and clamp parts to be welded. These discrete

(on-off) inductive high-pressure devices are imbedded inside a hydraulic

or pneumatic cylinder to sense the cushion or “spud” of a cylinder in order

to indicate extended or retracted positions (or both) used to clamp the

materials being welded. Balluff StrokeMaster™ end-of stroke sensors

represent state of the art refi nement in high pressure sensing. They are

available in a variety of stem lengths to cover most any cylinder bore

diameter, offer 304 degrees of mounting rotation without the need for

cylinder de-pressurization (which also contributes to “clean wiring” of the

system), are pressure rated to 3,000 PSI and are weld-fi eld immune.

Superior Cylinder Sensing in Pneumatic ClampingMany OEM pneumatic cylinders in clamps come equipped with Reed or

Hall effect switches to detect cylinder position. Electromechanical Reed

switches are prone to contamination. Hall effect switches, although solid

state, are prone to drift and are usually not protected from short circuits or

reverse polarity. The result for both can often be inaccuracy and premature

failure, especially when used in robust manufacturing environments. Down

time and poor welds due to incorrectly sensed clamping can often be

traced to these devices. An upgrade to non-contact Balluff BMF Magnetic

Field sensors eliminates these issues. There’s a Balluff BMF sensor

and associated mounting hardware to fi t most any cylindrical, dovetail,

trapezoidal, profi le, or slot-style cylinder available. Weld fi eld-immune

versions address clamping situations where strong electromagnetic fi elds

emitted by weld guns can potentially false trigger other sensors. Balluff

BMF sensors have a lifetime warranty.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Welding Application Note

Reliable Connectivity in Rotating Welding EnvironmentsA common welding production process is the turntable design, in which an

operator sets up the pieces to be welded, the turntable rotates 180°, and

the welding itself takes place safely on the other side of a barrier.

Need:

Sensor and actuator connectivity solutions for automatic turntable welding

that eliminates unreliable slip rings, failing wires, and provides a means of

rapid weld jig change out.

Balluff Non-Contact Connectors

When the table indexes 180°, the operator removes the previously welded

assembly and sets up for the next weld sequence. Although the loading

is manual, the clamping process is automatic. After the table rotates,

welding takes place on the other side, while the operator removes a

fi nished piece, which improves robot utilization.

In turntable welding processes, correct nesting and clamping is critical for

product quality. This process calls for continuous power to and from the

sensors, even though the turntable is constantly turning. In this typical

example, a Balluff non-contact coupler system (A) is installed on a rotating

vertical workstation to power the sensors (B) and transfer the necessary

data from the sensors rotating on the workstation to the controller.

Balluff non-contact couplers consistently and dependably deliver power

to the sensors and transfer their signals back across an air gap. No wire

extends from the moving portion of the workstation. The heads can easily

be positioned out of the damaging slag and debris generated by the

welding process. Slip rings can be eliminated and no wiring gets twisted

or frayed in the constant rotating central to the turntable welding process.

(A)

(B)

(A)

With Parallel Wiring

▪ 8 inputs

▪ 24 VDC 0.5A power

▪ 12 conductor cable

With Industrial Network

▪ Up to 4 analog plus 8 inputs

▪ 16 inputs plus diagnostics

▪ 24 VDC 0.5A power

▪ EIP, DNT, PNT, PBS, CCL, ECT

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Increasing Sensor Life in High Impact EnvironmentsSensors are designed to be non-contact devices. When used within

their design parameters, they will last about 14 years in constant service.

However, sensors are often called upon to operate in environments where

impact from heavy objects is a recurring danger. Fortunately, there are

ways to lessen or eliminate most of the impact conditions that cause

sensors to be replaced due to unnecessary impact.

Need:

Protect sensors from damaging and unnecessary impacts.

Balluff Solutions for Increasing Sensor LifeEliminate impact all together by bunkering sensors in steel blocks. Sensors need to be

gapped properly in order to get the maximum sensing range possible. Channel cables

and connectors or protect them in protective tubing. In welding environments, cover

cables and connectors with silicone tubing. This simple, common sense approach can

save time and money.

Using longer range sensors such as Balluff’s 2x, 3x & 4x Steelface® Sensors can

increase the sensing range up to four times the normal distance, avoiding impact all

together. This lowers sensor maintenance and replacement issues dramatically.

Balluff Cushion Mounts are the answer in unavoidable impact installations that are

relatively clean of burrs, chips, fouling liquids, or weld fl ash. It’s a two-part solution

consisting of a spring-loaded proximity mount that absorbs repeated blows, plus a

tough threaded Delrin cap with beveled edges. This screws over either shielded or

unshielded sensors to defl ect blows and eliminate abrasion of the sensor face.

Balluff Prox Mounts are an excellent all around sensor protector. Its front fl ange protects

the sensor face from physical contact. It can be easily adjusted to mount the sensor at

its rated distance for a specifi c application. Its metal enclosure acts as an effective heat

sink in intermittent heat burst applications. Tefl on coated versions allow use in welding

environments. It also provides quick-change capability, allowing fast and easy sensor

change out without the need for recalibration.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]

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Metal Forming Application Note

Progressive Die Sensor Protection Process UpgradeMany progressive die stamping processes use a sprint-actuated plunger at

each die station to verify part positioning. To verify correct part positioning,

these plungers must often be within a fraction of a millimeter from a small

diameter proximity sensor before the plunger is detected. With tolerances

this tight, the sensors are often impacted by the plunger, forcing frequent

sensor replacement.

Need:

1. Reliable plunger detection at longer sensing ranges.

2. Retrofi t and system upgrade without signifi cant die tooling redesign

or cost impact within a regular maintenance program.

3. Elimination of the need for constant sensor replacement.

Improved Plunger Detection Program

Step one in this part positioning upgrade is to remove the steel plunger

actuator from the spring-loaded mechanisms located at each stage of

a progressive die installation. The actuator is then magnetized. Next,

a common form-factored Balluff M8x1 tubular BMF magnetic fi eld

sensor replaces the incumbent sensor. The actuator travel is reduced

to interact correctly with the new sensor. No other modifi cation is

necessary.

In the previous installation, the tip of each small diameter actuator,

presented “head on” to the sensor, had to be within a fraction of a

millimeter from the sensor face before the limited range sensor sent a

signal to the press control. Any misalignment could cause repeated

hits to the sensor face, causing premature sensor failure, increased

maintenance costs, and unnecessary downtime. With the actuator

magnetized and the longer range BMF sensor installed the detection

of the actuator occurs at a 6…7 mm range, saving the sensor from

damage, with concurrent savings in maintenance time and cost, while

providing increased system up time and effi ciency.

Part positioning apparatus is positioned at each step of a

progressive die program.

With standard inductive sensors, the plunger often hits

the sensor face due to the need of the tip of the actuator

to get within a fraction of a millimeter to trigger the sensor.

Balluff M8 tubular BMF sensors provide greater sensing

range, avoiding the danger of actuators hitting the face of

the sensor.

Please Order From:Clark & Osborne, LLP 317-255-5668 Phone6617 Ferguson Avenue 317-253-4486 FAXIndianapolis, IN 46220 [email protected]