Propshaft Balancing Machines

Precision Measurement & Correction

The UNI-44 control system at the heart of each Unibal propshaft balancing machine employs demodulated sine wave technology and latest Windows-based touch-screen controls, enabling it to provide fast and accurate results in up to four balance planes.

The system’s sophisticated software not only determines the correction weight to be applied at each balance plane, but also indexes the workpiece to the correct position for them to be secured using automatic, medium frequency weld heads.

Machines can also be fitted with laser run-out monitoring units, as well as super-accurate tooling equipped with air sensing to confirm correct seating of components prior to cycle start.

Fast Operation

All Unibal propshaft balancing machines are designed for maximum production throughput.

A variety of loading systems can be supplied, ranging from manual component location at a pre-load position, to fully-automated twin conveyor systems.  These are complemented by a series of work handling modules and custom-designed tooling to suit individual applications.

The system’s high capability software also enables the UNI-44’s simple, robust industrial PC unit to be configured precisely to user requirements – and to deliver cycle times up to 50% faster than some competitors’ equipment.

Reliability & Durability

Reliability and durability are two key attributes to Universal’s propshaft balancing equipment.  Each machine is designed on a modular basis to provide compact and rugged installations capable of round-the-clock operation.  Easy access for maintenance is complemented by the use of proven mechanical assemblies and off-the-shelf proprietary parts to ensure minimum downtime and running costs.  In addition, machines can be equipped with high precision ceramic bearing spindles for greater stability at all operational speeds.

Simple, Intuitive Control

All Unibal propshaft balancers offer simple, touch-screen commands with clear and intuitive displays.  They also provide pop-up menus with step-by-step screen prompts to ensure that even untrained operators will achieve accurate results straight away.

On installation, machines will be configured to customers’ specific requirements.  However, a number of user-definable parameters can be easily re-specified by operators, subject to access rights, using the softwares’ in-built ‘options’ folders.

The control system also offers a wealth of additional features, including a job library and storage facility; real time displays of the position and amount of unbalance at each correction plane; colour-coded graphics to indicate in or out of tolerance results; and a variety of reporting options.

Service & Support

All Unibal systems are backed by the highest levels of telephone and on-site support.  The company also offers user-specific training packages geared to the needs of customers’ own production and maintenance personnel.

Spares for most units are normally available ex-stock from Universal balancing, or through our world-wide network of business partners.  Furthermore, the company’s latest generation control systems offer full 24/7 operation and a comprehensive off-site trouble-shooting and diagnostics capability.

Propshaft Balancing Machine:

• Robust simple mechanics
• Fast cycle times <1min 1 piece shaft floor to floor. <1min30sec for 2 piece shaft
• Unbeatable accuracy tooling
• Easy setup between all shafts
• Industrial standard parts used
• Low cost non-standard parts. Ie a UB drawbar spring costs £50 a Schenck spring £1000. A UB pick up £150
• Modular design, machine can be expanded upto 4 planes on site in the future
• 3000mm shaft length
• High Accuracy ceramic spindles
• Medium Frequency welding
• Easy to maintain
• Low maintenance
• Latest technology used all round
• High power spindle motor & drive
• Regenerative braking
• Fast accurate positioning
• Protected against surges and lightening. Safe and easy re-start
• Any PC can be used in emergency
• AirCon and climate controlled enclosures
• Complete machine incl. Electric enclosures mounted on machine to reduce-installation and connections.
• PLC & UNI44 modem support
• Laser run out option can be added on site if not originally ordered
• Paint marking can be added on site if not originally ordered
• Compact footprint
• Air sensing to check correct part location
• Vibration Shutdown
• HMI ease of customisation and full diagnostics
• Auto clamp tooling
• Auto release tooling
• Auto retract at end of sequence
• Commercial benefits to include turn key package
• Flexible working with customers needs UB can provide machine upgrades and reconditioning

Upgrades & Refurbishments of Propshaft Balancer:  

Refurbished and Upgraded Schenck 2 plane manual propshaft Balancer. The original machine is over 30years old, but with Universal Balancing’s ability to transform old equipment to virtually new the machine can now perform under todays demanding production criteria.

Refurbished and Upgraded BE (Balance Engineering) 3 plane propshaft Balancer. This machine prior to upgrading had old instrumentation and worn out mechanics, Universal Balancing (UB) provided a turn key solution to refurbish and upgrade to the latest technology and accuracy.

For more information on upgrades click here: Upgrades

Chucking is very important on today’s tight tolerance propshafts so extremely accurate tooling is required. Modern diaphragm or Hydraulic chucking systems provide the highest of accuracy which is needed when balance tolerance our now frequently <90gmm. Universal Balancing (UB) provide a range of chucks to accommodate all joints, this is a value added service in conjunction with consultancy  to provide the ultimate turn key solution.

Link: Propshaft Medium Frequency Welding