Standard Features
Frequently Asked Questions
The link clamp arm arcs up and out of the way to accommodate hard-to-reach or hard-to-hit clamping points. Link clamps contain the beam mechanism often preferred by fixture builders. This self-contained beam eliminates the need to build or design a clamp mechanism as part of the fixture. Vektek's unique single piece body and pivot design provides the least side-to-side axial deflection and the most rigid product on the market today.
When should I use a link clamp?
A link clamp is often preferred when you must reach over, not swing over or around a height obstacle. Reaching down into a die casting, between two mounting lugs, or a direct overhead vertical load are good examples where these devices are required. Keep in mind that the vertical clearance must be greater when you are bringing a part into position, but direct drop in loading is easily accomplished by an operator or robot.
What is the vertical stroke of a link clamp?
The maximum part variation is included in the vertical stroke, when outside the specification, the force generated by the clamp will be reduced and may result in reduced clamp life.
When using a high flow pump, which is better, a swing clamp or a link clamp?
Avoid the high flow pump. The link clamp positions with less mechanical resistance, but mass, acceleration, and sudden stops affect all clamps adversely. Make your decision based on your acceptance of the shortened life cycle.
Is the link clamp more accurate than swing clamps?
In some cases it may be preferred, its link mechanism still has a limited amount of play and may not be as precise as you desire. This type of decision is application dependent.
The part thickness varies on my application. Which component will work best for my situation, the swing clamp or the link clamp?
Swing clamps have more part variation tolerance, with nominal installation height being at ½ of straight stroke, it can tolerate ±½ stroke variations. The limit on link clamps is spelled out on the catalog page.
When should I avoid using a link clamp?
If you are clamping on a draft angle, the angle will exert undue stresses on the linkage mechanism. Please avoid stressing guidance mechanisms of either swing clamps or link clamps as these stresses will cause premature failure not covered by warranty due to mis-application.
Metric Link Clamp