Working closely with clients to develop custom Xpandrels is how the full Xpandrel line was developed over the years.  We have carefully selected the constituents of our standard line to ensure that many project needs can be met through standard line modification.  However, it does not end there.  Call us with your most challenging project needs and see what we can do for you.

Diameters Up to 15” and lengths up to 60”

Give us a call with you current workholding & process challenges.

The 7 Steps to Configuring Your Own Xpandrel

Understanding the finish turn: All Xpandrels require a finish turn.  This is standardly 0.001 below your MMC, the Xpandrel is expanded to 0.002 over your MMC, then finished to 0.001 below MMC giving you 0.003 clearance for part on/off in the relaxed state.

1) Define Your Diameter Requirements & Tolerances

Tips: For parts with internal features, determine locations of diameter changes and desired contact areas.

Your Xpandrel can be precision ground if you require higher precision tolerances and surface finishes.      

2) Define Your Working Length Requirements

      Tips: For shorter length parts, determine if you want to run multiple parts at a time on one Xpandrel.  For longer           length parts you may need to consider all options or combinations of options for actuation methods.  For more            difficult blind and  asymmetric parts give us a call to discuss options.

3) Define Your Total Length Requirements

      Tips: Include any tooling clearance and chucking extension lengths to maximize operation with a single setup.

4) Select Your End Conditions

      Tips:  Another way to make your Xpandrel work for you is to have the right end condition to accommodate all                   processes your part will travel through.

5) Select Your Preferred Actuation Method

           Tips:  If you are planning on leaving your Xpandrel in the chuck or collet for part swapping consider a side                    actuation flange on the chucking end.

6) Add features

       Tips: See the Modification Options page to get ideas that may help you reduce set ups and part flipping.

7) Material Considerations

       Tips:  Some designs are standardly aluminum while others are 4140-HT.  It may be possible to use other                     materials however the Xpandrel design must be assessed for expansion and deflection if a different                     material is selected.

The Basics of Xpandrel Functionality Design Series Versatility End Conditions & Actuation Methods Materials Standard, Modified or Custom? How To Buy  Xpandrels

General Work Holding Process Flow Portability Inspection Timing & Balancing Composites and Windings Laminite Stacking

Thin Wall Machining Milling Grinding Stepped ID Holding

1000 Series  - expanding mandrel for small parts 2000 Series - expanding mandrel for short length parts 3000 Series - expanding mandrel for medium size parts 4000 Series - expanding mandrel for long length to diameter ratio parts 5000 Series - expanding mandrel for large parts