Automated Split Mandrel Coldworking - Toward Greater Manufacturing Efficiency

An automated, sleeveless method of coldworking, used in either robotic or traversing slide applications, is discussed. The coldworking end effector, developed by West Coast Industries, uses the split mandrel process, thus obviating the need for the complex handling of the split sleeve, and its associated costs. Sensors mounted on the end effector provide feedback to the robotic controller, and may be used for Statistical Process Control (SPC). The unit may be used to coldwork 2000 and 7000 series aluminum alloys, with hole sizes from 4.4 mm to 12 mm diameter, and 1.5 mm to 50 mm thick material.