The Forkardt F+ is a manual 3-jaw chuck based on the wedge block clamping principle — a design pioneered by Forkardt that converts manual key tightening force into precise radial jaw movement. The quick-change jaw system allows jaw sets to be swapped without re-machining, and the DIN-standard top jaw interface means the same jaw sets used on an F+ manual chuck also fit the FNC power chuck series — simplifying tooling inventory for shops running both manual and CNC lathes.

What are the F+ size options?

Verified specifications for the F+ 200: 200 mm outer diameter, 52 mm through-bore, 3,000 rpm max speed, 160 Nm torque, 140 mm width, pitch circle Ø132 mm with M12 bolts, conical through-hole Ø105 mm. Full dimensional data for all sizes is available in the Forkardt F+ brochure (Fplus_e.pdf).

How does the wedge block mechanism differ from a scroll chuck?

Unlike a scroll chuck — where a spiral plate drives all three jaws simultaneously — the F+ wedge block mechanism uses individual wedge surfaces for each jaw. This design provides higher clamping rigidity with less backlash than scroll-type chucks, and the quick-change feature allows individual jaw replacement without affecting the other two jaw positions. The hardened chuck body and high-quality steel internal components are user-serviceable.

What applications does the F+ serve?

The F+ is particularly well-suited for grinding operations where the large through-bore accommodates longer shaft sections. The interchangeable jaw compatibility with the FNC power chuck series makes it practical for shops that split work between manual and CNC lathes — top tooling investment is shared across both machine types. The F+ is listed under Hardinge Workholding on industrial directories, reflecting the Forkardt Hardinge merger; the product is the same as the ITW Workholding / Forkardt F+ series.