Schmalz vacuum blocks and suction plates for nesting table systems.
In the nesting process, workpieces are machined directly on a vacuum-clamped nesting table — without supports, without set-up time, with maximum sheet utilisation. The heart of every nesting system is reliable vacuum clamping: only when the workpiece is held securely are precise milling, sawing and drilling operations possible. We stock Schmalz vacuum blocks and suction plates specifically for nesting table systems — suitable for all common nesting machines, available from stock, ready for dispatch across the EU.
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Abhebesystem | mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Abhebesystem | mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
mit Abhebesystem + Tastventil
Passt auf Nestingtische und Rastertische
How does vacuum clamping work in nesting?
In nesting, a spoil board (MDF or similar material) is placed on the vacuum table. A vacuum pump then creates negative pressure beneath it, which holds the spoil board — and therefore the workpiece lying on it — flat against the table. Block suckers are also used in the nesting process when individual workpieces need to be clamped at specific points, for example with small formats, complex contours or on machines that support both nesting and beam processing.
Schmalz clamping technology for nesting tables — our product groups
- VCBL block vacuum suction cups clamp workpieces at specific points on the nesting table — in different heights and support surfaces depending on the workpiece geometry and machine type.
- Suction plates (VCSP) are wear parts for block vacuum suction cups and should be replaced regularly to ensure constant vacuum performance and optimum holding force.
- MultiClamp suction plates are suitable for manual and semi-automated clamping of smaller workpieces on the nesting table.
Nesting vacuum suction cup
The VCBL-N and -R series block suction cups have been designed for machining workpieces on nesting tables and grid tables. Use is very straightforward. Setup is possible without tools. Suction cups in the -N and -R series can be used for two main applications:
1. without a friction clip for use on a grid table, and
2. with a fitted friction clip for use on a nesting table.
Schmalz lifting system
The Schmalz lifting system is mounted securely to the block vacuum cup. Recognisable by the projection, the system makes it easy to move workpieces to the position required for machining. Once the vacuum has been activated, the lifting system is moved downwards and the workpiece is placed on the suction face of the vacuum cup.
How to improve adhesion in nesting machining
Nesting machining has gained more and more importance in recent years. This is due to the many advantages, as well as the high degree of flexibility. However, there are a number of points to bear in mind with the process. Problems can arise if the adhesion of the raw board and the "nest" is not optimal. Here are a few tips on how adhesion can be improved:
- Make the sacrificial board more air-permeable
- regular face milling
- Vacuum management
- Use block suction cups
- Optimise the nest with optimisation software
Nesting vs. console machining — when is each system appropriate?
Nesting machining is particularly suitable for high quantities, panel-shaped workpieces and fully automated production lines. The entire sheet surface is utilised, and set-up times are eliminated. Console machining with block suction cups is the better choice for individual workpiece geometries, varying dimensions and frequently changing workpiece thicknesses. Many modern CNC machining centres support both operating modes — Schmalz clamping technology covers both scenarios.