With the new SPN series, the Zimmer Group presents a modular zero-point clamping system that offers numerous features and is suitable for high demands. The SPN series was also recently awarded the German Design Award 2021 twice by the German Design Council. The zero point clamping system received the award in both the "Excellent Product Design - Industry" category and the "Excellent Product Design - Eco Design" category.

In addition to a standard version reduced to the basic functions, which fulfills the basic functions such as unlocking and plus connection, there is also an advanced version to choose from. The SPN Advanced version is a high-end version that is particularly popular in automated production. Made from stainless steel, the hardened and therefore rust-free zero-point clamping system offers a range of functions that were previously unavailable on the market in this form and combination.

In addition to the standard Plus connection - an additional pneumatic connection that can be used to significantly increase the pull-in force - the practical function of an integrated support check should also be mentioned here. With the help of a connected flow meter or dynamic pressure meter, this allows you to check whether the workpiece or clamping pallet is resting on the surface of the zero point clamping system.

A pneumatic piston position monitoring system is already integrated as standard, as are blowing out the pin opening and cleaning the support surface. The SPN Advanced offers the user a high degree of flexibility with two connection options - on the one hand via a mirrored connection on the flange surface and on the other via a hose connection on the base of the system. Safety is also a top priority with the SPN Advanced, and so in addition to a blow-out function fitted as standard, an optional automatic sealing cap also ensures protection against the ingress of foreign particles.

High forces and repeat accuracy

Both zero-point clamping systems (SPN Standard and SPN Advanced) are able to absorb high forces with very high repeat accuracy. This is achieved thanks to a sophisticated clamping principle in which positive locking is achieved by means of clamping segments. In contrast to the usual point contact with balls in conventional systems, the clamping segments adapted to the clamping contour create a surface contact between the clamping system and the bolt, giving the systems a very high level of rigidity.

Clamping plates with integrated zero-point clamping systems extend the product range. These are equipped with standard SPN zero-point clamping systems as standard, but can also be equipped with an SPN Advanced if the customer requires a query option for their application. The range of accessories extends from clamping plates with two zero-point clamping systems to clamping plates with six zero-point clamping systems. This means that all practical requirements can be covered.

An automatic lock, which reliably protects the stud opening, and various clamping studs are also available as options. The clamping pins can be inserted directly into the workpiece in order to clamp it precisely, repeatably and cost-effectively using the zero-point clamping systems. In this way, complete five-sided machining is possible in one workpiece clamping. The different clamping pins ensure the desired precision clamping in different spatial axes.

The centering pin defines the reference point of the workpiece and generates the precision in the X, Y and Z directions. While the sword bolt ensures precision in the X, or Y and Z directions, the clamping bolt only clamps in the Z direction. In addition, a separate locking bolt is already included in the scope of delivery, which closes the bolt opening when not in use in order to protect it.

Gregor Neumann, Media & Communications, Zimmer Group