Fairlane Products’ Sof-Top Urethane Grippers, available from Fixtureworks, combine secure workholding with protection for finished surfaces, particularly in assembly, machining, inspection or repair operations. The nonmarking, non-staining Sof-Top grippers feature a bubbled urethane surface that provides a non-slip grip. The bubbled texture of the urethane top offers firm holding and allows air to escape so no suction is created between the contact surface and the top of the rest pad as it is compressed. The urethane surface, providing abrasion and wear resistance, is available in three durometers (strength ratings).
Sof-Top grippers are available in several sizes and mounting configurations to meet a wide array of application needs. With the fixed-gripper configuration, the urethane surface is permanently bonded to a 300 series stainless steel pad. They are blind-hole tapped for backside mounting and are offered in sizes ranging from 0.3125 in. to 1 in. (8 mm to 25 mm).
The replaceable swivel ball configuration features a cylindrical body that makes installation in tight areas possible. The replaceable ball swivels to allow self-alignment on uneven surfaces. A Viton O-ring holds the ball in place while keeping contaminants out and providing smooth ball movement. The housing is made from a smooth alloy steel, heat treated to Rc 43 to 46 with a black oxide finish, is tapped for backside fastening.
The thrust screw assembly configuration allows straight-line static load thrust without transmitting torsional or radial force to the contact area. The free-floating ball design allows the thrust screw to continue to rotate while the ball remains stationary against the contact surface. This configuration is good for irregular shaped or contoured applications. The housing is made from alloy steel, heattreated to Rc 43 to 46 with a black oxide finish.
