The new HDS2 Heavy-Duty Slide System from Hepcomotion has a maximum load carrying capacity of 68kN.

It has been engineered to be exceptionally rugged for increased load and life requirements. In so doing it addresses new markets in heavy materials handling that involve much larger X-Z gantry systems.

Retaining the best features of its forerunner, the HDS2 is offered in a considerably expanded range. It is, however, technically superior to the original Heavy Duty models.

An important aspect of this is the introduction of specific components that reduce the engineering time required by the customer to get the system up and running.

These components include larger bearings with increased load capacity, three sizes of construction beam, single-edge V slides and flat tracks, as well as a range of drive options. All of this, with an option for stainless steel or corrosion-resistant components as standard, enables the HDS2 to satisfy the needs of most high-load applications.

Hepcomotion can supply the HDS2 in component form or as a ready-mounted assembly complete with rack-driven carriages. Customers can also choose from low-cost commercial slides for general use or high-precision ground slides for applications where superior accuracy and greater smoothness are necessary.

Slides and tracks are available in single-piece construction up to 4m long, which, in itself, will save on assembly time. They are supplied in single- or double-edge format both as V slides or flat track. The V slides have a simple alignment facility to achieve parallelism and the flat tracks overcome the need to align two slides exactly parallel.

Greater driving forces for heavier loads are achieved through a range of spur or helical rack-and-pinion options. The helical racks are suitable for applications that require a smoother transition of the driving force and lower noise levels. The engineering package is complemented by a range of rack-driven carriages, complete with an automatic lubrication facility and helical bevel gearboxes that can be driven by AC or servo motors.

For maximum design flexibility, versatile construction beams with multiple slide and track mounting options are a feature of the HDS2. In line with the new larger slides, the HDS2 programme includes a larger aluminium beam that eliminates the need for the customer to machine a steel structure. Also available is a compact version of the beam that is useful where space is at a premium. Alternatively it can be used to create a high-capacity lifting Z axis. Where customers need the extra rigidity offered by a steel beam, all slides can simply be fitted and aligned using the keyway option with dowel pins. There is also an option to mount directly to Hepcomotion standard backplates, again using the alignment facility.

The HDS2 also includes an increased range of bearing sizes. New introductions include a 150mm diameter vee bearing and a 144mm diameter roller incorporating high-capacity taper roller bearings. Maximum bearing capacity is now 50kN, which is a substantial increase on the previous 20kN, and all bearing options are available in stainless steel. In addition, all bearings are now offered in removable format so, in the unlikely event of bearing failure, they can be replaced without the need to remove the carriage from the system.

As well as providing higher load capacity, the double-row bearings are exceptionally tolerant of debris. Low-friction cap wipers expel dirt and help to retain lubricant and extend service life. A removable cover allows easy system adjustment without disassembly. Lubricators also offer an alternative method of lubrication and can be applied to both bearings and slides. They will be a lower cost option where conditions are not hostile.

Chris Rees, sales director at Hepcomotion, comments: "HDS2 really provides an exceptionally flexible programme for arduous applications. The additions to the range will enhance its performance and will provide customers with far more application possibilities."

HDS2 heavy-duty slide system