Power for changeover systems

A challenge that only specialists can master

Imagine this: a leading European mechanical engineering company is planning a new CNC machining centre with a hydraulic changeover system. The requirements are extreme – changeover times measured in milliseconds, combined with precise, repeatable positioning. However, the standard drive originally intended for the task quickly reached its limits: The built-in end-of-stroke damping was not precise enough, and the positioning accuracy was simply insufficient for the required operating conditions. What began as a routine project became a real test of mettle for everyone involved. It was clear: a standard solution would not suffice. Something better was needed – something tailored precisely to the application.

Partnership rather than compromise: from the initial idea to a production-ready drive

It was precisely at this point that Eckart Hydraulics’ strength became apparent. Instead of a quick off-the-shelf solution, the customer and Eckart opted for a close development partnership. After a brief joint discussion, the existing drive variant was rejected. Instead, a completely new, bespoke hydraulic drive was created based on the proven Eckart SM4 core – developed from scratch to meet the specific requirements of the changeover system.

The first prototype delivered had to prove its worth immediately: reliably handling 1.2 million load cycles, with consistent precision and controlled end-of-stroke damping in every single cycle. To test this performance under real-world conditions, a special test bench was built specifically to precisely simulate the actual operating conditions in production. Revision by revision, in close and continuous dialogue with the customer, the system was further refined. Every minor adjustment, every technical detail was directly incorporated into the optimisation. The result is now in use – in the latest generation of the changeover system. It bears the hallmark of decades of trusting collaboration and impressively demonstrates what can emerge from a genuine development partnership.

Technology that adapts perfectly and grows with you

The current versions of the Eckart drive far surpass the first generation. They enable significantly faster changeover speeds – depending on the requirements of the respective application. Whether simple swivel and linear movements or complex multiple movements with additional auxiliary functions such as opening and closing gripper tongs: the system masters everything with flying colours.

The flexibility is particularly impressive. Many configurations can already be operated using simple directional control valves and do not require complex special control systems. This not only saves costs but also makes integration into existing or new systems particularly simple and cost-effective. The actuator effortlessly moves loads of up to 1,000 kg – safely, precisely and with the typical Eckart durability.

Why it’s worth looking into Eckart products

Anyone seeking the highest productivity, maximum precision and long-term reliability in manufacturing will find more than just a supplier in Eckart Hydraulics. Here, tailor-made solutions are created that start exactly where others give up.

Find out more about the tool changer and other hydraulic drive solutions from Eckart Hydraulics on the company website.

Be inspired – and discover what a true partnership in hydraulic technology can achieve. Eckart Hydraulics looks forward to helping you overcome your next challenge together.