AIM-Joraco Delivers Custom Press-Fit Solution for Utility Winch Manufacturer

SMITHFIELD, R.I. - EntSun -- When a leading manufacturer of utility winches needed to replace an arbor press used to install bushings into castings, the application initially appeared to be a straightforward press-fit operation.
The project required special features to work with the customer's existing equipment, assembly process, controls, and safety requirements. The application became complex than a standard press because it needed laser measurement and integration with the customer's PLC. To meet these needs, AIM-Joraco developed a custom solution based on its Direct-Aire® 400T press. This system combines high-force pressing with custom tooling, a manually operated slide tray, position sensing. The combination of a slide track and high-load press operation required precise dimensional control and alignment. In addition, the tight interface between the ram, bushing and casting created the potential for the casting to remain attached to the ram after pressing. The system also incorporates SPDT switch outputs within the SYNCHRO SIG™ Series Two Hand, Optical Touch Controller, allowing compatibility with future customer-integrated safety relays. Casting geometry and an integrated position sensor further limit the available space for hold-down components. The team conducted geometric analyses to establish the locations required for reliable position sensing and completed final fabrication of select slide-tray components after preliminary assembly, allowing dimensions to be established from the as-built alignment of the slide carriage and surrounding supports. The press tool incorporated an O-ring retention method already used in the customer's assembly process to hold the bushing in position before pressing. First-article testing helped establish the final interface dimensions and forces acting on the inside of the bushing.

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AIM-Joraco added a spring-loaded ejector pin to push the finished casting off the tool as the ram retracts, preventing it from sticking. The system includes the inputs needed to add quality checks to the pressing process. This allows the customer to monitor important assembly conditions during production. The press-fit solution works with their existing fixtures and process while allowing for future quality and controls upgrades.

About AIM Joraco

Joraco Press Company has been an innovator in the pneumatic press industry since 1947. The trademarked TOGGLE-AIRE® Series has been the core product of Joraco Press for over 60 years, having been installed in thousands of manufacturing facilities all over the world. The past 20 years have seen Joraco Press expand its benchtop pneumatic press products to cover more applications and more force ranges than ever before. Joraco Press Company is a division of Automated Industrial Machine, Inc located in Smithfield, RI. Our products are designed, fabricated, and assembled at the AIM headquarters. Head on over to our website http://www.joraco.com!

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