YOUR CARRIAGE AWAITS

Hepco is best known for originating the Linear Vee Guide System, the latest incarnation of which is the GV3 range. Out of this little acorn has evolved an ever-increasing range of variants, with the latest focusing mainly on ring and track systems - systems based on the Vee guide principle, but applied to a curvilinear format. By calling on a wide range of standard products and ring segments, Hepco can build ring tracks and continuous motion circuits of almost limitless size and variation.

The introduction of the PRT2 Precision Ring Track system has given a wider choice of ring slides and segments, bearings and ancillary components, the latest additions for applications where high downward or offset loads are anticipated. PRT2 high moment load carriages provide extra support and rigidity for high, dynamic or static offset loads.

Carriages are available in two configurations, both designed to connect to the track system support beam.

The static type carriage is designed to take an additional load whilst in a ‘static’ or stationary position. The carriage is supported by a pair of eccentrically adjustable roller bearings, fitted to the framework of the track system.

This provides the extra load capacity needed where large downward forces, such as punching or stamping, are involved.

The dynamic option provides continuous support to the carriage around the entire track whilst the load is moving. In this case, the carriage is fitted with eccentric roller bearings which can be adjusted to make contact with a support track following the main Vee Guide circuit.

The new carriages are available in a range of sizes, including an extra-wide carriage option. They can be supplied with a carriage locking system for positive location within +/- 50 microns and can also be used in straight line linear applications in conjunction with traditional GV3 components.

MORE TIMING BELT RING SLIDES, PULLEYS AND BELTS

 Hepco has also recently added a range of ring slides that are available in six sizes with pulleys and toothed timing belts for driven rotary motion. The design has a self-aligning V-groove in the pulley, which eliminates flanges.

High driving force and speed – up to 5m/s at the periphery – are complemented by accuracy and low backlash. Requiring no lubrication or re-tensioning, these new additions also run very quietly.

The new range is available with diameters ranging from 190 to 826mm; larger diameters may also be supplied to special order.

These additions are interchangeable with the PRT2 range of internal single edge ring slides, the only difference being that the timing belt version is slightly wider with a larger outside diameter.

Hepco timing belt ring slides are manufactured from high quality steel, zone hardened on the V edge and precision ground on all faces except the teeth. A datum register face is provided internally for ease of location. Tapped holes may be specified to enable the ring slide to be bolted from below. Stainless steel is also a standard choice.

Timing pulleys are available in three sizes to provide a whole number ratio for most ring and pulley combinations. They are made from stainless steel, as standard, with a precision bore and keyway and come complete with retaining washer, countersunk socket cap screw and set screw to secure the pulley to a drive shaft.

The polyurethane timing belts are reinforced with high tensile steel tension cords and are supplied to the length required by the application. Jointless belts, which take higher loads, are also available to special order.

In addition to the standard duty PRT2 timing belt rings, HDRT Heavy Duty Rings are available with a similarly modified profile for arduous and demanding applications that require bigger and stronger components.