New Fastening Technology Improves Ergonomics, Throughput | ASSEMBLY

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According to ASSEMBLY magazine’s annual Capital Equipment Spending Survey, 38 percent of U.S. assembly plants will purchase electric or pneumatic fastening tools in 2024.

If fastening tools are on your shopping list, then The ASSEMBLY Show is the place to be! You’ll find dozens of suppliers offering cordless nutrunners, pneumatic screwdrivers, screwfeeders, digital torque wrenches and other fastening technology. Here’s just a taste of what’s on the floor.

Designed for precision, speed and control, Coretec integrated assembly nutrunners are equipped with advanced torque and angle feedback, comprehensive signature analysis, and seamless data collection. The tool automatically detects cross-threading, and it adjusts torque for the specific yield point of each bolt. Models are available to cover a torque ranges from 2 to 255 newton-meters. The controller can be programmed for signature analysis of each run-down for more reliable pass-fail decisions.

The system includes a tool with torque sensor and encoder; all interconnecting cables; controller with digital I/O and ports for Profinet, EthernetIP, DeviceNET, and other networks; configuration and data collection software; and an optional PC for collecting data from up to 32 tools. An intuitive dial, drag and drop interface simplifies the setup process. Booth 843

Absolute Gauge Technologiesabsolutegauge.com

ASG has introduced a next-generation version of its X-PAQ DC electric screwdriver. This transducerized tool now has a torque range from 2.5 to 60 newton-meters. With motor speeds up to 2,000 rpm, the X-PAQ ensures fast cycle times. The programmable tool allows adjustments at the individual application level. This enables engineers to optimize each operation without being confined to global settings.

The tool’s motor drive technology uses advanced materials that enable faster switching and lower resistance. This results in a cooler, more efficient motor drive that surpasses the performance of traditional technology. A flexible cable design with a simplified construction enhances the connection between the tool and controller, ensuring reliable and durable performance in demanding environments. Built-in textured surfaces provide a superior grip to reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries. The screwdriver is compatible with various ergonomic assist devices. Booth 517

ASGasg-jergens.com

Curatas is a suite of software modules designed to enhance the manufacturing process by enabling engineers to take complete control of their assembly and auditing procedures.

The first module to be released is Curatas Wrench Control, a software program specifically created to compliment Crane’s digital torque wrenches and TCI lineside controllers. The software enables engineers to set up a user-friendly visual sequence of actions that an operator can then easily follow to successfully complete partial or full assembly.

The software promises to increase speed, quality and efficiency and decrease training time and assembly errors. For complete traceability, data from the software can be retrieved and viewed in easy-to-read reports and graphs.

The software can be set up on a single workstation or as part of multiple assembly stations, depending on the needs of each user, and whether they are working on a subassembly or the full component. Booth 621

Crane Electronicswww.crane-electronics.com

The ASCD 18-1000 W34 AS cordless impact wrench provides up to 775 foot-pounds of torque for tightening threaded fasteners up to 1 1/16 inch in diameter. It can also provide 1,105 foot-pounds of torque for loosening bolts.

The tool has six electronic torque settings. The VARIO adapter expands the range of the impact wrench to include drilling, countersinking and tapping. The tool’s brushless motor provides 30 percent greater efficiency and longer service life. It has a 3/4-inch external square drive for mounting impact sockets.

The tool can install up to 600 fasteners on one charge. CoolPack 2.0 technology ensures a 135 percent longer battery service life, enabling longer operation time. State-of-the-art cell technology and intelligent battery management deliver 87 percent more power than conventional batteries. Electronic cell protection guards batteries against overloading, overheating and deep discharge. The tool is compatible with Bosch Professional 18-volt batteries and AMPShare batteries. Booth 1345

Fein Power Toolsfein.com

The RTS Connect mechanical pulse tool offers reactionless performance, robust wireless connectivity, and programmable settings. A proprietary torque control algorithm powers this simple and flexible tightening tool. Through a user-friendly interface, engineers can set 40 torque levels and seven flush levels. Featuring a lightweight and ergonomic design, the tool has a dual-speed noncontact trigger and a 360-degree LED ring light to indicate status. Booth 119

Ingersoll Randpowertools.ingersollrand.com

E-Drive ECT is a smart electric screwdriver. It has a built-in transducer that continuously measures torque in real-time to collect, record and store fastening data for analysis. Designed for high-volume and sensitive environments, this corded tool is durable and reliable. Models are available to handle micro-, low- and high-torque applications. A single electric screwdriver can replace up to 15 screwdrivers. The screwdriver is suitable for clean rooms up to ISO Class 5.

The screwdriver must be used with the ECTD controller for programming. The controller includes free software for programming and analysis; no annual licensing is required. Digital I/O allows interfacing with a machine and PLC for line control. Engineers can implement error-proofing disciplines and adaptive fastening strategies. Booth 1606

Mountz Inc.www.mountztorque.com

The DLV70 series of current-controlled drivers covers a torque range from 5.5 to 62 inch-pounds with two types of drivers. Engineers can preset 30 torque levels and 30 fastening sequences. Screw counting is based on pass-fail decisions, and quality control is done by timer or rotation signal. The driver display indicates the job number and the number of screws remaining. The tool is equipped with an LED light that can illuminate in seven colors to indicate status, such as a good or bad fastening cycle. Fastening speed can be programmed in three steps. Booth 700

Nitto Kohki USA Inc.nittokohki.com

KingSet is an auto-feed, collated blind riveting system. It can install and feed the next rivet in just 1 second, automatically. With up to 100 rivets per coil and a quick, 5-second changeover between strips, this system dramatically boosts productivity compared to traditional methods.

KingSet is adaptable, handling rivets from 1/8 to 5/32 inch in diameter across various materials. It can also set 3/16-inch blind rivets in a limited selection of materials and lengths.

The system supports multiple fastener types, including:

The tool can be operated with one hand for greater flexibility and ease of use, even in downward positions, enabling 360-degree application. The ergonomically balanced design reduces operator fatigue. A built-in mandrel collection system vacuums all disposed nails, ensuring a clean and safe work environment. Additionally, the tool eliminates the need for operators to place their hands into containers of sharp rivets, significantly reducing the risk of injury.

KingSet has fewer parts and requires less air to operate, making it more economical than traditional bowl-fed or blow-feed systems. Maintenance is simple and cost-effective. Booth 1140

Industrial Rivet & Fastener Co.https://rivet.com

Sturtevant Richmont has introduced a new line of cordless fastening tools powered by a 20-volt rechargeable battery. The tools connect wirelessly with the company’s Global 400 and 400mp controllers. They are dependent on the controller for programming and torque results reporting. An adjustable clutch sets the torque limit. The tools automatically detect “double hits.”

The 2100PTA Series consists of wireless angled tools. Model 2100PTA-45 has a torque range of 18 to 45 newton-meters and variable speed of 210 to 300 rpm. Model 2100PTA-90 has a torque range of 40 to 90 newton-meters and fixed speed of 100 rpm.

The 2100PTP Series consists of pistol-grip tools. They have a torque range of 3 to 12 newton-meters and variable speed of 700 to 1,000 rpm.

The 2200PTP Series consists of pistol-grip tools. Model 2200PTP-18 has a torque range of 3 to 18 newton-meters and variable speed of 50 to 100 rpm. Model 2200PTP-24 has a torque range of 6 to 24 newton-meters and variable speed of 50 to 600 rpm. These tools report torque and angle values with the results. Kits also come with a side handle.

Sturtevant Richmontwww.srtorque.com

This pneumatic screwdriver is accurate to within ±3 percent of the set value. It is powered by the company’s new Tornado air motor, which provides 60 percent more power and 30 to 40 percent less counterforce than the previous air motor. It produces a noise level of about 67 dBA, which is 5 to 6 dBA less than the original.

It has a uniquely shaped resin handle with an ergonomic “Top Wave” design for good balance and easy grip. Operator can change the bit rapidly by pulling the bit sleeve. Color rings provide a clearly visible indication of the torque setting. Booth 714

Sumake North America LLCsumakenorthamerica.com

The Lobster R2A1 hydropneumatic riveter installs break-stem rivets ranging from 2.4 to 4.8 millimeters in diameter. Stroke length is 19 millimeters. With a two-color molded ergonomic grip, the tool weighs 2.76 pounds. It includes nosepiece, guide pipe and guide pipe collar. The hydraulic oil reservoir has been improved such that after 1 million cycles, stroke reduction was just 0.2 millimeter. The tool has interchangeable left and right air supply ports, and a shutter prevents kick-out of the mandrel. Booth 1718

Yamazen Inc.www.yamazen.com

See more articles from our October 2024 issue!