Different types of input and output are combined depending on the requirements of the application.

Types of input and output

MAPAL uses five different types of input to link actuating tools and the machine tool. In addition to the machine type (machining center or special machine), the decisive factor is whether the machine used has a control function or not.

Six types of output are divided into the areas of 'moving and controlling' as well as 'compensating and lifting'.

A wide range of possible combinations result from these types of input and output. The most suitable combination is selected in close coordination between the MAPAL product specialists and the customer.

Types of input in detail

  • An actuation tool from MAPAL that uses coolant pressure as drive type.

    Input by means of coolant pressure

    The coolant pressure regulates the actuation of the slide or the positioning of the inserts.
    The feed rate is set manually via a regulator valve. Slides or inserts are returned via an internal spring.

    Tools actuated by coolant pressure can be used in machining centres without actuating function due to their variable connection.

  • An actuating tool from MAPAL with input by means of contact stop.

    Input by means of contact stop principle

    With this principle the contact stop socket comes into contact with the fixture or the workpiece. As a consequence the tool adapter is pressed into the tool and the slide actuated. The feed rate is defined by the machine axis. The slide is retracted by an internal spring. 

    Tools actuated by contact stop can be used in machining centres without actuating function due to their variable connection.

  • In this case, the TOOLTRONIC U axis is used as type of input for actuating tools.

    Input by means of TOOLTRONIC U axis / U axis spindle integration

    As a self-contained drive module, TOOLTRONIC represents a fully-fledged NC axis integrated into the machine control system that makes possible a wide range of applications using inductive energy and bidirectional data transmission.
    The slide is actuated by an actuating motor in the tool. 

    As a general rule, actuating tools that were activated in the past by coolant pressure, the contact stop principle or using a drawbar, can be driven and controlled both on machining centres and special machines without actuating function with TOOLTRONIC.

  • An actuating tool from MAPAL for use on machines with U axis systems.

    Input by means of the machine's U axis

    The slide is actuated via the U axis on the machine tool. The feed rate is set via the U axis. As a rule this axis is rotary and a fully functional NC axis.

    Wherever machining centres are equipped with U axis systems, suitably prepared controllable tools can be used.

  • Input by means of drawbar/push rod

    In a special machine, the central drawbar/push rod can be used for actuating the slide or positioning the inserts. 
    The feed rate is set via the U axis. This axis also provides the retraction (NC-controlled).

Types of output in detail

  • Schematic representation of a linear slide from MAPAL actuating tools.

    Linear slide

    The linear slide, which is perpendicular to the centre line of the tool, is actuated via angled teeth on the drawbar/push rod.

    Machining operations:
    • Recessing
    • Contour turning
    • Facing
    • ​​​​​​​Thrust bearing turning

  • Schematic representation of an inclined slide drive from MAPAL actuating tools.

    Inclined slide

    The inclined slide's angle in relation to the centre line of the tool that is not 90°. It is actuated via angled teeth on the drawbar/push rod.

    Typical machining operations:
    • Recessing
    • Chamfering
    • ​​​​​​​Taper turning

  • Schematic representation of a swivel slide drive used in MAPAL actuating tools.

    Pivoting slide

    The pivoting slide is operated via a central pin using an internal lever mechanism. A spherical segment is produced by the inherent rotation of the tool and the superimposed rotation of the pivoting slide. 

    Machining operations:
    • ​​​​​​​Turning spherical ball

  • Schematic representation of a rotary slide drive used in MAPAL actuating tools.

    Rotary slide

    The rotary slide is actuated via a combination of twist shaft and twist sleeve. During this process the axial movement of the twist shaft is converted into a rotation using a twist sleeve. The radial stroke is provided by an eccentric located slide.

    Typical machining operations:
    • ​​​​​​​Recessing
    • Contour turning
    • Facing
    • Thrust bearing turning

  • So-called deflection and tilting holders are also used as an output type for MAPAL actuating tools.

    Deflection and tilting holders

    An angled surface on the drawbar/push rod is responsible for the actuation of the cartridge on the deflection holder and the tilting holder. The holder is set to the appropriate centrifugal circle diameter depending on the position of the drawbar/push rod. 

    Typical machining operations:
    • Compensating cutting edge wear
    • Turning small contours
    • Recessing