One of the primary challenges faced by the sheet metal working industry is minimizing downtime between completing one batch of parts and starting the next. VICLA has addressed this issue by developing an innovative tool storage solution tailored to press brake tooling: ATC Automatic Tool Changer.
VICLA ATC Tool Changer: Efficient Tool Storage, Loading, and Unloading
Designed to streamline the interface between the press brakes and the storage system, the VICLA Automatic Tool Changer ensures quick, effortless, and safe storage, loading, and unloading of all sizes of punches and dies.
Key Features of the Automatic Tool Changer
- Modular Design: Easily customizable to fit any press brake configuration and usage requirements.
- Scalability: Expand storage capacity by adding additional modules as needed.
- Versatile Options: Available in double input models and XXL sizes for large and heavy-duty press brakes.
- Comprehensive Tool Management: Efficiently store and manage not only punches and dies but also special tools like hemming tables.
Key aspects of automatic load and unload of punches and dies
This system is customisable and designed to measure according to client requirements; it reduces setup by 4 or 5 times compared to the ordinary manual operation and it automatically performs even the most complex equipment, managing tool sets up to 1-3/4” V opening and rod holding tools. The upper tools can also be rotated 180 degrees. It also allows the use of Promecam or WILA clamping systems.
Automation covers everything, including upstream operations. One of the more interesting aspects is programming by the technical office: the CAD/CAM system processes the three-dimensional file, creates the best bending cycle and sends the program to the machine that is automatically equipped, recalling the bending sequence directly on the numerical control. All tooling and machining data are automatically saved at the end of the work and exported to management for a 4.0 key data analysis.
Advantages:
- Reduction of set-up times
- Increase of productivity
- Customizable configuration
- Versatile and automated programming
- Simple and intuitive use
- Handling of complex setting
Setup two press brakes at the same time
VICLA ATC system - Single or Twin – is designed to automate and speed-up the setups for efficiently producing small batch sizes. The system combines one or two hybrid press brakes with an automatic tool changer, allowing for multiple tooling setups, reducing setup times by 4 or 5 times compared to the ordinary manual operation.
The main element of the system is a compact shuttle that serves as robotic tool changer that places the tool sets, up to 1-3/4” V opening, in the clamping systems of the upper and lower beams. This shuttle retrieves and replaces tools in the tool magazine, which can store up to 197 ft. of dies and punches. The tooling can be used in manual or robotic setups. The upper tools can also be rotated 180 degrees.
Offline programming
One of the many advantages of the VICLA automatic tool changer is the offline programming capability. The CAD / CAM system processes the three-dimensional file, creates the best bending sequence and sends the program to the machine, which is automatically equipped, and calls-up the bending sequence directly on the numerical control screen.
All tooling and processing data are automatically saved at the end of the job and exported to the management system for data analysis.
Need More Information?
Whether you're seeking to optimize your press brake tool management or have specific questions, don't hesitate to contact us. Download our brochure or submit an online request for a quotation.