Pressing problem solved with Superbolt
Bolted joints are a key component of most machines, which make them essential to many of Japanese Sodick Corporation’s applications. The company manufactures industrial machines and machining tools as well as consumables and other products. Original research and development is a top priority, ensuring high-quality products that improve the customers’ manufacturing operations.
The Challenge
Sodick moulding machine engineers recently attended a seminar on solutions to the problem of loose bolts held by Ikeda Metals, a Nord-Lock Japan distributor. It touched upon exactly what they were struggling with.
Together with Ikeda Metals engineers, Nord-Lock engineers started searching for areas where they could help improve Sodick’s bolted joint design. They realized that in the Sodick moulding machines, the tie rod bolts were tightened by a traditional method. Tie rods are quite long, so if they are subject to torsion stress, and the machine is operating for a long time at the end-customer site, it is difficult to guarantee optimal performance. From the customer’s perspective, the ability to properly control the force on the joints becomes essential, because it is key to safe operation without costly downtime.
The Solution
Superbolt was the perfect solution as it just has pure tension. It does not create any friction and therefore can control the force on the joints without giving off torsion stress. The people at Sodick were impressed by how diligently the Nord-Lock engineers worked at finding solutions that catered specifically to their application needs.
The Result
Superbolt tensioners are premium products and while there are cheaper alternatives in the market, Sodick firmly believes that the cost performance of the product makes it appealing. About half of Sodick’s products are sold overseas, and some big machines cannot be shipped assembled. It is essential that the moulding machine assembly and changing of parts can be carried out easily, quickly and safely at the end-customer site. Sodick is pleased to hear reports that their customers are satisfied with having smooth, speedy operations.
