Precise tool design for Grade A molding

FLEXIBILITY is a common challenge in the development of molding technologies depending on the sector and the use of tubes.

But in the process of diversification, the machine is not the critical component in looking for the right solution, but rather the tool.

Stefanie Flaeper, managing director at transfluid Maschinenbau GmbH, says its machine and the process are certainly very varied given the diverse and individual demands.  He adds,

“So, for instance, our upsetting technology could be in demand, with the upsetting capacity of 98 kN, 147 kN or 196 kN.”

Flaeper mentions their roller technology facilitates tooling-independent molding with only one tool. Even combination machines that display the axial and roller molding in a tube clamping are potentially necessary.

In order to secure powerful results, it is important that the tools used during the procedure guarantee the design of every individual product.

The rigorously customized tool development undertaken at transfluid include feasibility studies, if necessary a sample production and the prototyping for that. An entirely new department has been created to cater to the latter, where specialists inspect components and tools of up to 45 mm diameter.

Tool design is an especially relevant topic even for axial tube molding. For instance, the cycle time allows for that, transfluid often inserts an intermediate clamping unit in hose connections. It provides internal support for the entire geometry. The technology prevents the tubes from bending inwards at sensitive locations.  

Pneumatic guard, cold welding prevention

In the case of multiple upsets that cannot be produced in the above-mentioned manner, the company uses a single-tier ‘sliding split molds.’ These tools are equipped with an internally controlled pneumatic guard lock. That prevents scratches from forming on the geometry if clamping claws are opened after the molding. And the position of the sliding element is always recognized.

A technical feature concerns the upsetting tools that open up when the molding tier moves back and forth. In the case of longer strokes, they prevent contact between material and tool. Thus it prevents cold welding between tool and material, and the surface of the material remains undamaged. Multiple beading along with an intermediate clamping fixture can also be produced using this technology.