Operating conditions

• Unless otherwise specified, observe the following operating conditions:
  • Operation with hydraulic oils according to DIN 51524 with ISO VG 32 to VG 68
  • Use in temperate climate zones
  • Use in covered areas
  • relative humidity < 70%
  • Ambient temperature Ratio-Clamp^® -15 °C to +80 °C
  • Ambient temperature safety catcher 0 °C to +60 °C
  • Working temperatures for sealing elements: -15 °C to +80 °C

If other fluids (e.g., water, water emulsions, fire-resistant fluids or others) are used or other ambient or working temperatures are expected:

• Coordinate the use of the clamping unit under changed operating conditions with Hänchen.

Recommended cleanliness classes according to ISO 4406:

• for clamping unit with standard sealing elements: cleanliness class 19/16/13.

Potential hazards

• Potential crushing and pinching points should be secured by the operator, preferably by design, using fixed guards.
• Implement guards in accordance with the requirements of EN ISO 14120.

When using the clamping unit as a holding device to prevent a hazardous movement according to ISO 13849-1, in the event of a fault, the clamped rod may experience lowering/sinking due to its own weight:

• Use the clamping unit redundantly depending on the required Performance Level.
• Take measures to prevent the unlocking of the clamping unit before the load is held.

Unexpected start-up

• Prevent malfunctions or unexpected start-up in the event of a control system failure by circuit design using suitable hardware.
• In case of a defective output of the plant controller or plant control system, ensure a controlled restart.
• Ensure that the plant controller or plant control system returns to its home position and awaits release in the event of an unexpected start-up.

Uncontrolled movement, blockage of the piston rod

• Take suitable measures to prevent uncontrolled, jerky movements or blocking of the rod in case of defective regulation or control.
• Take appropriate measures to prevent uncontrolled movements or incorrect feedback in the event of a breakage of control lines from sensors or valves.
• Ensure that all outputs are de-energized in the event of a power failure.

Emergency stop

• In the emergency switch-off or emergency stop system of the hydraulic plant, take suitable measures to prevent hazards caused by the clamping unit.

Pressure rating

• All parts of the hydraulic plant and the clamping unit must be designed to withstand pressures that
  • are higher than the maximum working pressure of the hydraulic system or a component.
  • exceed the rated pressure of the hydraulic system or a component.

• Ensure that pressure surges and pressure fluctuations do not cause hazards.

Pressure loss

•  Ensure that pressure loss or a critical lowering/sinking of the pressure does not pose a hazard to personnel or damage the machine.

Pressure fluctuations

• Pressure fluctuations that lead to exceeding the rated pressures must be avoided by appropriate measures.

Mountings

• Design the mounting of the clamping unit such that
  • an excessive deformation of the clamping unit due to compressive or tensile loads is minimised.
  • the introduction of side or bending loads is minimized.
  • the maximum permissible, specified side loads act on the rod.
  • the load acts axially on the axis of the cylinder's piston rod.
• Design the mounting surfaces to prevent twisting of the clamping unit when installed.
• Design and install mounting screws for the clamping unit and accessories to absorb all foreseeable forces.
• Ensure that mounting screws absorb the tilting moments.
• Consider the maximum expected loads and pressure peaks.
• If the clamping unit is used as an end stop, design the mounting components to safely absorb all occurring loads.
• Avoid stressing the clamping unit through mounting surfaces.
• Consider pressure and temperature expansions.
• For pivoted mounting that requires continuous external lubrication: Minimize pivoting speeds.

Accessibility

• Ensure that the clamping unit and accessories are easily accessible for maintenance and adjustment purposes, and that safe adjustment and maintenance are possible.

Limit Values

• Observe the following limit values and tolerances according to specification or product documentation:
  • max. permissible axial load (permissible holding load or permissible load)
  • permissible pressures
  • Condition of the rod to be clamped
• Match the drive force or load to the holding load of the respective clamping unit (Ratio-Clamp^® or safety catcher).