Machining center utilization improves significantly using the new Kurt PinLock™ system. It enables machining of multiple parts per load while reducing setup time.

The PinLock is a pre-engineered system for precisely locating, attaching and removing fixtures, subplates and vises on a single or a series of machining centers. Users report up to 80 percent improvement of machine utilization when using the PinLock system. It reduces part changeover time, reduces cycle time, eliminates previous load/unload time, and increases overall product throughput.

The PinLock system consists of high precision pins, bushings and liners that provide locating and locking repeatability up to ±.0005 inch. Manufactured to Kurt’s high precision workholding standards, PinLock shanks and bushings are precision machined of heat-treated, alloy steel with a black oxide finish.

Installing a PinLock system for a particular job on one machining center establishes a mounting platform easily replicated on adjacent machines. This allows for setting up a “shop wide” workholding process and maximizing machine utilization to the fullest. PinLock has a universal design so that it can be adapted to a wide range of machines both existing and new ones when added.

What’s unique about Kurt’s PinLock is its new helical extraction design and pin feature. This feature aids in overcoming binding in side load conditions and enhances the removal of the PinLock in any application. The pin feature adds “line contact” (as opposed to “point contact” with competitive systems), which gives a larger clamping surface and holds the clamping force constant throughout the entire machining cycle. The PinLock system is also interchangeable with competitive ball locking systems.

PinLock liner bushings are available for fixture plate thickness of 0.75 and 1.00 inch for the 13, 16, 20, 25 and 30 mm sizes. The larger size PinLock liner bushings (35 & 50mm) are available for 0.75, 1.00, 1.50 and 2.00 inch fixture plate thicknesses. Back mount and front mount receiver bushings are available for receiver plate thickness of 0.75 to 2.00 inches.

The PinLock system matches up for use with Kurt sub plates, tombstones and vise adapter plates, so existing as well as new workholding components can be used with the system. The PinLock system also is interchangeable with competitive ball locking systems. PinLock form Kurt provides manufacturers with a time-proven, one-stop source for building modular workholding as needed for quick changeovers and high repeatability.