Guidelines for Designers, Builders, and Operators
IMPORTANT: Review this document before designing, building, or operating hydraulic workholding systems.
Hydraulic power workholding systems generate substantial forces and operate at high pressures. Safe operation requires proper system design, correct component selection, and operator awareness. Retain this document for reference.
Critical Safety Warning
KEEP HANDS AND BODY CLEAR OF CLAMPS AND CYLINDERS DURING OPERATION. Hydraulic workholding components generate forces sufficient to cause severe injury. Always disconnect or isolate the hydraulic power source before installing, adjusting, or servicing any component.
Operating Pressure Limits
Every hydraulic component has a maximum rated operating pressure. Exceeding this pressure risks seal failure, structural damage, or sudden component failure. Consult product documentation for the pressure rating of each component in the system. Install a pressure gauge where the operator can monitor system pressure during operation. Fixture-mounted gauges provide the most accurate indication of actual working pressure.
Protection Against Pressure Loss
Evaluate whether sudden pressure loss could create a hazard. A severed hose, failed fitting, or power unit malfunction can cause rapid pressure drop and loss of clamping force. Where pressure loss poses a safety risk, install a pressure-sensing switch that signals the machine control to halt operation when pressure falls below a safe threshold.
Removing Trapped Air
Air trapped in hydraulic lines causes spongy clamp action and inconsistent force. Most systems self-purge after several clamp cycles. If air remains, manually bleed at the highest point in the circuit while the system is pressurized. Crack the fitting until fluid flows without bubbles, then retighten. Top off the reservoir after bleeding.
Flow Rate Considerations
Swing clamps, extending clamps, and fluid-advanced work supports have maximum flow rate limits. Exceeding these limits causes erratic motion or incomplete actuation. When using high-output power units, install flow control valves to regulate flow to individual components. Refer to product specifications for maximum allowable flow rates.
Coolant Exposure and Venting
Single-acting clamps and work supports contain internal air spaces that vent through filtered breathers. Submerging these components in coolant can draw liquid into the air cavity, contaminating internal mechanisms. Route vent lines to a protected location above the coolant flood zone. Product documentation identifies vent port locations and fitting requirements.
Die and Press Applications
Hydraulic die clamping on stamping presses involves different safety requirements than machining fixture applications. Press clamping systems require specialized components, safety interlocks, and compliance with press safety standards. Contact Carr Lane for guidance on press-tool clamping applications.
Component Installation
Follow manufacturer installation instructions for each component. Correct mounting orientation, fastener torque, and alignment are essential for proper function and service life. Improper installation can result in reduced clamping force, premature wear, or unexpected component movement.