Cast iron tooling columns for horizontal machining centers

Single-piece cast iron tooling columns offer maximum rigidity, increase horizontal machining potential, and provide a solid basis for custom workholding to suit specific customer needs.

Several mounting options are possible including direct, with center pin locating or edge locating, and also quick-change applications via ZPS with K20 pull studs and 4 module subplate.

New column styles include square, cross, and rectangular. The square and cross styles are well suited for high-density multi-part fixtures or incorporating multiple operations into a single column. The cross style allows increased spindle access near the column, eliminating the need for extra-long tools. The larger upright faces of the rectangular columns are for applications involving larger workpieces.

Column construction uses stress-relieved, class 40 cast iron, with the base and sides milled flat, perpendicular, and parallel within 0.001"/ft, providing an accurate foundation to set up workholding devices or quick-change systems.

Other features include a center locating bore, inch, and metric hole patterns, and M12 lifting holes for secure hoist ring attachment.

Tooling columns are customizable and easily integrated into full custom design and build projects. Popular patterns and methods include tapped grid, bushed, and tapped grid for modular fixturing applications, or for quick-change, add either Ball Lock receiver bushings or ZPS modules.