HYGETM
Yoke Lock Conversion
Systems
manufactured prior to 1972 used a single pneumatic lock pin
with clevis on front of Set cylinder that secured the trust
column by locking the sled to front of cylinder.
To
convert the lock-pin configuration to the newer lock-yoke design.
The existing front cover and lock bars are replaced with a new
cover with two integral sliding locks which are pneumatically
moved into position to secure the thrust column. A safety switch
is located on the rails to assure the locks close only when
the thrust is in the fully retracted position. In addition,
the locks will only open if the carriage is in position.
This
feature may be incorporated into either manual or automated
control systems.
The
Lock Yoke replaced the single lock pin to enhance the safety,
operation and convenience:
-
Two
smaller pneumatic cylinders mounted top and bottom
-
Thrust
column remains secure even if operation air is lost
-
Sled
can be moved to and from firing position without releasing
the thrust column securing.
-
Sensors
on pneumatic cylinders to give positive feed back of status
-
Reduces
alignment problems sled to thrust column and sled to lock
pin
-
Bearing
arrangement on front cover reduces fluid leakage from front
of thrust column
-
Interlock
to issuer thrust column is in retracted position before
engaging
-
Lock
yokes will only open when sled is in position to fire
-
Reduces
the weight of cylinder front end components - making maintenance
easier
-
Locking
ring on front of sled is no longer needed reducing sled
weight and increasing payload capacity
-
No
longer requires pit at front of rail system, reducing safety
trip/ fall hazard
