Radius PT7

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PT7MainImage Pro-Tech Radius formers are the modern way to fabricate curved laminates such as arched headers and radiused moldings for windows and doors. Utilizing our patented technology we eliminate the traditional method of building and storing wooden forms. The PT-7 Radius Former uses a series of machined rails supporting dual sets of heavy aluminum arms, which are adjusted to define the pattern to be fabricated.

The provided computer program is used to determine the PT-7 setup parameters. The software leads the user through a series of questions such as type of shape, diameter, spring back, etc. that geometrically define the pattern. The software then calculates the exact location for each of the 82 aluminum form arms and generates a printout that is used by the operator to quickly setup the machine and fabricate a component without forms of any kind.

The Veneer Slats are clamped to the form arms with a series of 32 specially designed Aircylinders, which use pneumatic airpressure up to 120 psi and are connected to the clamp via quick disconnect. The clamp is then energized using a self contained valve which permits the air supply to be disconnected after actuation.

The PT-7 can be used as a cold press or equipped with an optional set of thermostatically controlled heat bands. Depending on the size of the component and adhesive used, the heat bands can cure the assembly in as little as 20 minutes.

The modular design of the PT-7lends itself to customizing for an end users' specific requirements. Some of the more popular options are listed here. If you have a specific requirement not listed here contact us. Chances are we have what you require or if not we will engineer and build it for you.

STRAIGHT LEG TABLE EXTENSIONS
Some customers Prefer to build their components without the joints typical in products with long extensions. We provide extension tables specifically for this purpose, The extension is mounted on castors which permit it to be removed when not required. There is no limitation on the extension length. Typical systems are 4 to 6 foot.

AIR PRESSURE BOOSTERS
The air cylinders on the PT-7 are rated for 200 psi air pressure . Most customers find that standard shop air pressure of 115 psi is more than adequate for their forming requirements. For Those individuals with demanding applications or low shop air pressures we offer a 2: 1 air pressure booster package complete with ASME certified air receiving tank.

CONDUCTION HEAT BAND CURING
To accelerate adhesive cure time the PT-7 can be equipped with a thermostatically controlled heat band system. This consists of a control system containing a programmable temperature controller coupled to a thermocouple. The controller regulates the heating temperature and cure cycle duration. The laminates are sandwiched between a set of heat bands during layup then connected to the controller upon insertion into the machine.

VARIABLE CLAMP CAPACITIES
The Standard clamp has a 6" stroke which provides a clamping capacity of 4 1/2". For those customers requiring additional thickness capacity clamps are available in 2 inch increments up to 8 1/2".

CASING ATTACHMENT
When fabrication narrow width components the casing attachment insures the centering of the component on the form arms and clamp centers. The attachment contains a lineal acme screw that can be driven by a power tool and assist in forming the assembly.

  • The machine can form parts with a minimum inside diameter of 12".  Maximum part size is dependent on the bed size selected.  Standard sizes vary from 8’L X 4’D to 12’L X 6’D
  • Maximum part thickness and depends on clamping system selected. Maximum thickness from 4 ½ " to 6 ½ ” are available

    Maximum part width is 7”
  • The machine includes a computer program is compatible with Microsoft Windows operating systems. The software leads you through a series of questions such as type of shape (halfround, true ellipse, etc.) to determine the proper set-up for the machine.
  • The program can provide a printout showing the required settings for each arm to minimize set-up time.
  • The computer software is designed to easily compensate for spring back of radiused parts.
  • The main press frame uses heavy wall steel tubing for strength and long life.

    Machined rails support dual sets of heavy aluminum arms to act as forms for various shape pieces. These arms are easily adjustable to assist in setting up various shapes.
  • Pneumatic clamps, each with manual control and a special quick connect fitting, apply clamping pressure to the parts for laminating.
  • Clamping pressure is applied in a progressive manner; beginning in the middle, to allow the laminates to move slightly in relation to each other for tighter laminated parts.
  • The machine does not require forms or fixed shapes of any kind.
  • The machine is shipped complete and ready to operate with either cold curing of glues or with the optional heat bands for faster curing times.
  • U.S. Patent #5,293,961