Kottami is expanding its range of machine tool accessories: TSM vises with a self‑centering function.

Kottami, a well-known manufacturer of machine tool equipment and tools, announces an expansion of its product range with the TSM series of self‑centering mechanical vices. The new model has been developed taking into account the current needs of modern metalworking industries and combines high precision, reliability, and versatility of application.

Purpose and scope of application

Kottami self‑centering mechanical vises TSM are a reliable solution for machine tool equipment, designed to secure parts when performing a wide range of operations on metalworking machines. The equipment is optimally suited for turning, milling, grinding, and other types of mechanical processing of workpieces.

Thanks to the self‑centering function, the vise allows you to quickly and accurately position the workpiece strictly in the center, which significantly reduces setup time and increases labor productivity. This is especially important in mass production conditions, as well as in tooling and repair workshops, where frequent changeovers of workpieces are required.

TSM vises are in demand in mechanical engineering, aircraft manufacturing, instrument making, tool production, and other industries where high requirements are imposed on the accuracy of processing and the repeatability of results.

Design features and advantages

The key feature of the TSM vise is its well‑thought‑out self‑centering clamping mechanism: both jaws move synchronously towards each other, ensuring symmetrical and uniform application of force to the workpiece. This approach eliminates misalignment and guarantees a stable position of the part during processing.

Among the main advantages of the model:

• High positioning accuracy. The parallelism and perpendicularity of the working surfaces are maintained at the level of 0.02 mm — this allows the vise to be used in precision operations.
• Strong clamping force. With a torque of 160 N·m, the clamping force reaches 2800 kgf, which ensures reliable fixation even under significant vibration and dynamic loads.
• Versatility of configuration. The ability to install different types of jaws (with teeth 60 HRC and smooth 40 HRC) allows the vise to be adapted to various technological tasks: from rough fixation to delicate milling processing.
• Wear resistance and durability. The body and working elements are made of high‑quality steel with heat treatment: the body hardness is 55 HRC, the jaw hardness is up to 60 HRC (carburizing). This increases wear resistance and extends the service life of the tooling.
• Ease of use. The ergonomic screw mechanism ensures smooth and predictable movement of the jaws, allowing the operator to precisely control the clamping force.

Operating principle

The operation of the vise is based on a classic screw mechanism. When the screw is rotated clockwise, the jaws move closer synchronously, securely holding the workpiece. When rotated counterclockwise, they move apart, releasing the part.

The synchrony of movement is achieved thanks to the precise kinematics of the mechanism, which allows the workpiece to be automatically centered regardless of its dimensions within the maximum opening (174 mm).

Technical specifications

• Weight of the frame - 8.6 kg
• Clamping force - 2800 kgf at 160 N·m
• Maximum jaw opening - 174 mm
• Body hardness - 55 HRC
• Jaw hardness (with teeth) - 60 HRC (carburizing)
• The hardness of the smooth jaws (for milling) is 40 HRC.
• Parameters of the jaws with teeth (Z2.5): width – 119 mm, length – 44.5 mm, height – 32 mm.
• Parameters of the smooth jaws: width – 119 mm, length – 47 mm, height – 40 mm.
• The parallelism of the working surfaces is 0.02 mm
• The perpendicularity of the working surfaces is 0.02 mm

Configuration options and adaptation to tasks

The manufacturer offers a flexible configuration system that allows you to choose the best tooling option for specific production tasks:

• Jaws with serrations (60 HRC) — for reliable fixation of workpieces with untreated or rough surfaces. The serrated notch prevents slipping even under high loads.
• Smooth jaws (40 HRC) — optimal for milling operations and other types of processing where it is important not to damage the base surface of the part.

Upon request, it is possible to supply additional sets of jaws and special inserts that expand the functional capabilities of the vise.

Safety requirements and operating rules

To ensure safe and long‑lasting operation of TSM vises, the following rules must be observed:

• Before starting work, visually check the condition of the vises: the upper surface, jaws and stops must not have cracks, chips or metal deformation.
• Ensure that the vise is securely fastened to the machine table or workbench — this prevents spontaneous loosening and displacement during operation.
• Check the smoothness of the movement of the moving parts: the jaws must move freely, without any misalignment or jamming.
• It is prohibited to apply impact load to the parts of the vise or to use them for purposes other than intended.
• Do not exceed the recommended torque when tightening the screw — this may damage the mechanism.
• Regularly clean the working surfaces from chips and contaminants, and carry out preventive lubrication of the lead screw.

Certification and compliance with standards

The products (EAEU HS code: 8466) are not included in the "Unified List of products subject to mandatory Certification" and the "Unified List of products whose conformity is confirmed in the form of a declaration of conformity" according to Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated December 01, 2009 No. 982.

The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the design, construction, and configuration of the product without prior notice. The information provided is not a public offer.