The MD Series from Applied Robotics is a 2-jaw hydraulic power chuck with an integrated indexing mechanism — designed for robotic machine-tending cells where the workpiece must be repositioned between machining operations without manual intervention. Each chuck indexes through four 90° positions under hydraulic control, achieving ±1 arc minute repeatability in approximately 2–4 seconds per index cycle.

How does the integrated indexing work?

The MD Series uses a patented Tecnomors indexing motion that drives both clamping and rotation from a single piston assembly. Four hydraulic ports manage the system: two for jaw clamping (open/close), two for indexing (advance/return), plus a manifold drain. The indexing sequence — partial unclamp, rotate 90°, re-clamp — is fully programmable and synchronized with the machine tool CNC or robot controller. A safety feature retains workpiece clamping force even during a complete hydraulic pressure loss, preventing part ejection.

Why is this suited to robotic cells?

Robotic workholding demands chucks that can receive and release parts from a robot gripper without operator touch. The MD Series 2-jaw layout presents an open top for robot access, while the indexing mechanism eliminates the need for a separate rotary axis or manual repositioning station. Centrifugal force compensation — a feature typically found only in high-speed spindle chucks — is incorporated here to maintain consistent grip force on easily deformable parts even as indexing occurs, enabling higher throughput without part damage.

Size range

The MD Series spans outer diameters from 160 mm (6 in) to 550 mm (22 in), covering workpieces from small turned components to mid-sized castings and forgings. Per-size clamping force, stroke, and weight specifications are available in the Applied Robotics technical catalog. The chuck body is fully sealed against coolant, chip, and dust ingress — a practical necessity in unattended robotic cell operation where maintenance access is limited to scheduled intervals.