Blue Photon’s Adhesive Workholding Pallet System Optimizes Complex Part Machining

Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets are designed for quick change and
​adhesive workholding of complex and hard-to-hold parts for
EDM, grinding, inspection, laser and milling operations.

compiled and written by Bernard Martin

Blue Photon has introduced five Grip Pallets and three new inserts for 52- and 96-mm quick-change receiver systems.  Blue Photon's Grip Pallet is a revolutionary adhesive workholding solution for machining complex, delicate, or hard-to-hold parts in EDM, grinding, inspection, laser, and milling applications. These systems are specifically designed to increase spindle uptime, reduce scrap, and streamline part loading in modern manufacturing operations.

Advanced Design for Enhanced Machining Access
The Grip Pallets allow for 5- and 6-sided machining by securely holding components without mechanical clamps, maximizing accessibility to critical surfaces. Available in 150-mm, 225-mm, and 300-mm square configurations, the pallets are compatible with standard 52-mm and 96-mm quick-change receiver systems already utilized in machining centers.

Each pallet accommodates Blue Photon’s patented gripper technology, known for delivering high clamping forces using UV-cured adhesive. The grippers hold parts firmly without distortion or damage, a critical advantage for thin-walled or precision components. This innovative adhesive workholding system is particularly suited for 5-axis machining, as it enables unrestricted access while maintaining rigidity and stability throughout the process.

Grip Pallet Specifications

• 150-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum or steel, designed with a 52-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 9 grippers.
• 225-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum or steel, designed with a 96-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 21 grippers.
• 300-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum with a 96-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 33 grippers.

Each pallet includes:

• Two ergonomic handles in multiple color options for ease of handling.
• Four precision spacers with a 25.4-mm standoff, ensuring a consistent 1-mm nominal adhesive joint thickness between the gripper and the part.
• Optional clamp studs for integration with 5th Axis, Jergens, Lang, and Mate systems.

Versatility with New External Inserts
Blue Photon has developed three external insert options tailored to their small, medium, and large grippers. These inserts simplify gripper installation at the optimal height, delivering maximum adhesive holding power and flexibility to accommodate varying part geometries and sizes.

Easy Part Removal and Cleanup
Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets prioritize efficiency, not only during machining but also during part removal:

• Parts can be released with a ¼ turn twist of the gripper or by a hot-water soak.
• Residual adhesive can be easily removed with a handheld steamer or a light peeling action after soaking.

This intuitive removal process minimizes downtime and ensures the pallets are quickly reusable, maintaining production flow without compromising workholding performance.

Why Choose Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets?
​The Grip Pallet system is ideal for manufacturers seeking:

• A reliable solution for delicate or complex geometries.
• Improved access for multi-axis machining.
• Enhanced repeatability and precision using adhesive workholding technology.
• Seamless integration into existing quick-change receiver systems.

​For more technical specifications or to explore how Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets can transform your operations, contact us at JMI CNC & Automation.