Kurt Workholding Expands Five-Axis Lineup with Versatile Vises and Zero-Point Pallets for Enhanced Machining Flexibility

Kurt Workholding is enhancing its five-axis workholding product range with the introduction of three new vise models, along with innovative manual and pneumatic quick-release pallets featuring 96-mm zero-point docking. The PFW420, PFW440, and PFW460 vises offer versatile workholding solutions, equipped with three snap-on, snap-off jaw options, simple adjustment features, and pull studs designed for automated pick and place operations. These vises are compatible with Kurt’s 96-mm pallets as well as other industry-standard systems, enabling seamless integration into existing machining setups.

The five-axis vises feature 4-inch quick-change jaws and zero-point mounting, which significantly speed up machine setup and job changeover processes. The jaws can be easily swapped out while the vise remains mounted, or the entire vise can be quickly removed and replaced using a hex bolt, a button push, or pneumatic actuation, thanks to the Kurt zero-point pallet system. The PFW Series vises also include serrated, dovetailed, and machinable jaw options, providing flexibility to meet various machining requirements.

Designed to cater to both small shops and large enterprises, Kurt’s five-axis ecosystem allows for scalable investments. Shops can start with a minimal setup and expand their workholding capabilities by adding more vises and pallets as needed. The common pull stud pattern across Kurt’s product lineup ensures compatibility and ease of expansion over time.

Kurt is also launching a range of zero-point pallets, specifically designed to complement their five-axis vise models. These include six pallet options, such as three manual pallets with a 96-mm pattern, one with a 52-mm pattern, a quick-release manual pallet with a 96-mm pattern that locks and releases vises with a single button push, and a pneumatic pallet. The pneumatic pallet system offers automated zero-point mounting that can be remotely controlled by an operator or fully automated using a machine tool controller, robot, or PLC.

Jeff Lenz, Executive Vice President of Proprietary Products at Kurt Manufacturing, emphasizes the flexibility of the new zero-point lineup, allowing customers to mix and match pallets and vises for rapid setups. He notes that the introduction of 96-mm mounting to traditional machining vises like the DX6 broadens the system’s applicability across multiple machine platforms, ensuring that this versatile system meets the diverse needs of modern manufacturing environments.