Overview
Where used
Mach 500 · Mach 300
Summary
Spreader bars allow a simple means of cutting small, repetitive parts quickly by duplicating the same
cutting action simultaneously across multiple cutting heads. In general, machines that are equipped
with a spreader bar operate the same as one that does not–the multiple heads need only be
considered from a part size standpoint.
Operating parameters
Maximum distance between outermost cutting heads
600 mm spreader bar …………… 710 mm
900 mm spreader bar …………… 1016 mm
1200 mm spreader bar …………… 1320 mm
Minimum distance between any two cutting heads
All spreader bar lengths ……………116 mm
Tips
Tips and recommendations for cutting with a spreader bar:
• If a cutting head won't turn on, check the associated blue pneumatic tubing—it may be pinched
or blocked. If the cutting head won't turn off, it most likely needs an on/off valve repair.
• Cutting is slightly less accurate near the ends of the spreader bar than near the center. Use the
minimum practical spacing for your part, it saves material as well.
• If you use a particular position pattern a lot, purchase additional high-pressure tubing and bend
the tubing specifically to fit your needs. Flow will also fabricate custom high-pressure tubing for
you based on a sketch—contact Technical Service for more information!
• Some users use the spreader bar as an "on-machine spares" system for more predictable
uptime, especially with a quad head. Cut one with one pair of cutting heads (#1 and #3) until
you have a problem—such as a clogged orifice or worn on/off valve—and then switch to the
other pair of cutting heads (#2 and #4). If you do this, you can postpone downtime until it fits
your schedule and do all your maintenance at once!
© 2021 Flow International Corp.
Retrieved from Flow KB on April 13, 2021 PST
Cutting with a spreader bar
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