The use of tool changers enables continuous production without time-consuming interruptions due to tool changes. The ability to perform several work steps such as machining, assembling or transporting workpieces with just one robot makes tool changers an indispensable component of modern systems. Their integration into automated systems offers numerous advantages. Increasing productivity and minimizing set-up and downtimes are the two most obvious. Thanks to the fast tool change, industrial robots can work continuously and thus make full use of their capacity.

The Zimmer Group offers high-quality tool changers and matching accessories such as energy elements, storage stations and much more. "The investment in tool changers is manageable and pays off in the long term, as they can significantly reduce production costs and considerably improve product quality," says Tobias Hikade, Product Manager at the Zimmer Group. The automation specialist sees tool changers as an indispensable key element on the way to full automation in the industry.

Manual or automatic changeover

As an experienced automation partner and handling expert, the Zimmer Group has a comprehensive portfolio of tool changers to offer its customers the right component for every industry and every application - whether for welding, laboratory tasks in clean rooms or complex assemblies within a complete system. But how do you find the right tool changer? Tobias Hikade knows what to do: "Choosing the right tool changer depends heavily on the system and the application in question. In the lower and medium payload range, for example, our manual tool changers from the HWR and HWR2000 series enable tool changes in a matter of seconds," he says. "Integrated air transmitters ensure the reliable supply of pneumatic and vacuum actuators. These can optionally be supplemented with a range of energy elements to implement additional media such as hydraulics, fluidics, electrical currents, signals and fieldbuses."

Variety of Zimmer Group tool changers with matching energy elements. © Zimmer Group

Both manual and automatic changing of small and medium payloads is possible with the FWR series. Depending on the application, the customer is able to carry out the tool change fully automatically without external control or manually by hand. The process in the depositing station is purely mechanical, meaning that no additional energy supply is required. In addition to four integrated pneumatic feed-throughs, corresponding energy elements are also available here for different media transmissions.

Secure hold even with pressure drop

The WWR and WWR1000 series offer very high flexibility and holding power. With a possible load capacity of up to one ton, the WWR1000 is a real heavyweight. This makes a secure hold all the more important in order to avoid endangering people and machines. "Safe operation is a priority for all our tool changers. For example, the combination of spring accumulator and high transmission ratio ensures a safe machine," says Tobias Hikade. "The workpiece and tool are held securely even in the event of a pressure drop, for example due to an emergency stop or power failure."

The very flat design of the WWR and WWR1000 series minimizes the torque load on the robot. It also enables the use of more cost-effective and smaller sizes. "Here, too, there are no restrictions for our customers in terms of their application thanks to the wide variety of media carriers," says Hikade. As an automation expert with over 40 years of experience, the Zimmer Group is close to its customers and knows that different industries require specific solutions. Its cross-technology expertise and high level of vertical integration make it possible to respond quickly and specifically to special requirements. Based on its standard portfolio, the Zimmer Group is also able to make individual adaptations for industry or customer-specific challenges.

Indispensable role on the road to automation

Tool changers play a central role on the path to full automation, as they significantly increase efficiency and flexibility in production. The Zimmer Group's extensive range offers tailor-made solutions for a wide variety of applications and industries and enables smooth integration into existing systems. Overall, tool changers are not only an important component of modern automated systems, but also a decisive factor for the future of industrial production.

Margot Johanna Pompe, Zimmer Group

SPS, Hall 3A, Stand 326