Improving Welding Clamps with Latching Technology

A manufacturer needed to replace the pneumatically powered clamps that held material for welding. A custom latching solenoid provided both the locking and latching functions the manufacturer required. Permanent magnets latched the solenoids in a retracted position without consuming power.

Welding Clamps

Customer Problem

A manufacturer needed to replace the pneumatically powered clamps that held material for welding. After welding was complete, the solution would release and allow the material to move down the line. In addition, the clamp replacement needed to be precise, holding each piece in a precise position.

The TLX Solution

A custom latching solenoid provided both the locking and latching functions the manufacturer required. Permanent magnets latched the solenoids in a retracted position without consuming power. While retracted, material could be positioned in the fixture for welding. A short pulse of power un-latched the solenoids, canceling the magnet and holding the part down with a heavy duty spring. When the welding was complete, a short pulse of opposite polarity returned the solenoids to the retracted position, releasing the part down the production line. The custom solenoids easily replaced the pneumatic clamps, providing an energy efficient solution.

Heavy Duty Latching Solenoid

Heavy Duty Latching Solenoid

Stroke
3.3 ± .508 mm
Net latching force
> 222 N
Supply voltage
6, 12, 24 Vdc
Response time
100 ms
Coil resistance at 20°C
.6 ± .03 Ω
Operating temperature range
10°C to 50°C
Spring load (de-latched)
178 N
Durability
> 100M cycles

All TLX components are customized to fit system requirements, meaning technical specifications are unique to each customer and design. Examples given on our website are for illustration purposes only.

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