Assembly Planbook - July 2008 - (Page 74)

ASSEMBLY Power Tools Pulse Tools Get Smart New technology lets assemblers capitalize on the ergonomic benefits of pulse tools without sacrificing requirements for accuracy and error-proofing. P ulse tools have always been known for their ergonomic benefits and high run-down speeds. However, if fastening accuracy was a top priority, particularly on softer joints, conventional wisdom dictated that assemblers were better off with a DC electric tool or a pneumatic tool with an automatic shut-off. Now, thanks to technological managing director of SigmaSix LLC (Rochester Hills, MI). “No longer does ‘important’ or ‘critical’ mean that DC tools are needed.” Pulse tools are discontinuous-drive tools. They apply torque in increments rather than one continuous effort. When the fastener is running free, the tool isn’t pulsing, and the driveshaft moves very fast. A free speed of 4,000 to 8,000 rpm is typical for pulse tools, with some pistol-grip models topping out at 10,500 rpm. Once the fastener is snug, the tool “Pulse tools now compete for the entire range of fastening applications.” —Mark W. Lehnert, SigmaSix LLC begins pulsing, applying short bursts of torque lasting a few milliseconds. Depending on the joint, 10 to 15 pulses is usually enough to tighten a fastener. “Essentially, the tool is tapping the fastener into place,” says Alan Hirschmugl, training and marketing manager for AIMCO (Portland, OR). The source of the pulses is a unique hydraulic mechanism that consists of two rotating, cylindrical parts, explains Robert Arthur, vice president of Michigan Pneumatic Tool Inc. (Detroit). The first part, called the casing, has Pulse tools are discontinuous-drive tools. They apply torque in increments rather than one continuous effort. Photo courtesy Atlas Copco Tools & Assembly Systems By John Sprovieri Editor advances, assemblers can have their cake and eat it, too. They can realize the ergonomic and productivity benefits of pulse tools, without compromising on accuracy, control or data gathering for quality assurance. “Pulse tools now compete for the entire range of fastening applications,” says Mark W. Lehnert, president and 74 ASSEMBLY / July 2008 www.assemblymag.com http://www.assemblymag.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Assembly Planbook - July 2008

Assembly Planbook - July 2008 Contents Editorial Quality in Assembly Station to Station Assembly Lines Assembly in Action Surviving the Roller Coaster The Human Side of Manufacturing Do Your Fasteners Need a Preapplied Thread-Locker? Manufacturing Innovation A Century of Progress Trendsetting Plants Pulse Tools Get Smart Plastics: Design for X Product Reviews Products Advertisers Index Classified Leading Lean

Assembly Planbook - July 2008

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