Forming Processes Electric Press for Precise Joining Connections

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FAULHABER Drive Systems

According to Tox, the Flex Press complements the existing modular pressing system.

Tox is expanding its portfolio of modular press systems with the Flex Press Station. The electrically driven platform is designed for a wide range of joining and forming processes and combines powerful drive technology with ergonomic design and continuous process monitoring. The design of the electric press allows it to be used as a manual stand-alone workstation as well as for integration into automated production lines.

The Flex Press Station is suitable for applications where reproducible results, high process reliability and flexibility in configuration are required. The usable press force range extends from 0.05 to 200 kilonewtons. Fields of application include clinching, press-fitting and forming.

Modular Architecture for Different Production Requirements

According to the manufacturer, the Flex Press Station combines robust C-frames as well as 2- and 4-column versions with the electromechanical Tox Electric Drive servo drives. Integrated sensors record force and displacement data for precise control of the joining processes. The press is designed in such a way that it can be flexibly adapted to different process requirements and production environments.

It should be possible to configure and add tool modules, safety concepts and operating elements. This allows the Flex Press Station to be adapted to specific process requirements. It can also be easily integrated into existing (automated) production lines.

Ergonomic Operation and Integrated Safety

According to the manufacturer, ergonomics and user-friendliness were the focus when designing the workstation. Good accessibility, short set-up times and intuitive user guidance ensure smooth operation. The height-adjustable version makes it possible to work ergonomically both sitting and standing.

There is a choice of three coordinated safety concepts: 2-hand start, one-hand start in combination with a light curtain and an electrically interlocked safety gate. The user interface with Tox UDI Panel enables the control and display of all relevant process data. Integrated LED RGBW status lighting visualizes the process status directly in the work area.

The control cabinet is fully integrated into the press frame and can be positioned either on the left or right. This reduces the amount of cabling required and enables a particularly compact layout. Thanks to its space-saving design, the Flex Press Station is also suitable for use in production environments where space is limited.

Process Monitoring with Industry 4.0 Connection

The Tox software records force and displacement curves along the entire pressing cycle and evaluates them in real time. Deviations are displayed visually and all process data is documented, says Tox. The data can be integrated into higher-level systems via standardized interfaces such as OPC UA and MQTT.

The Flex Press Station thus supports end-to-end traceability of all process steps and meets the requirements for networked production processes. The process quality remains stable even with changing components and short cycle times.