BLOCK CYLINDERS

"Floating Clamping" refers to the way that two equal, opposing clamps in the same hydraulic line shift fluid between themselves to center around a workpiece. In the example above, the workpiece's right side is pre-clamped against a fixed stop for location. Then, delayed by a Sequence Valve, the two Block Cylinders with locking support plungers "float" into position, each exerting the same clamping force (F_W). Once in position, the plungers lock to prevent any further floating of the web during machining (Retention Force = F_H). This arrangement is particularly suitable for absorbing vibration at ribs and webs.