Zimmer HWR Manual Tool Changer Review: Specs, Price and Applications
The Zimmer Group HWR series is a manual tool changer that lets operators swap robot tools in seconds. A locking lever built into the housing secures the tool without any additional tools.
Integrated air transfer activates pneumatic actuators on the tool, and electrical power transmission is also possible. Zimmer positions the HWR as a way to cut startup costs and changeover downtime.
Quick Verdict
A straightforward, low-cost route to fast manual changeovers. Integrated media transfer avoids reconnecting hoses at each change.
Zimmer HWR Manual Tool Changer at a Glance
Specification | Details |
System type | Manual robot tool changer |
Locking | Locking lever integrated in the housing |
Change time | Seconds, without additional tools |
Media | Integrated air transfer; power transmission possible |
Price | Request a quote |
Design and Operating Principle
A manual changer consists of a robot-side part and a tool-side part. The HWR's lever pulls the two together and locks them, giving repeatable positioning so the robot program remains valid after a change.
Air transfer through the interface means grippers and other pneumatic tools receive air automatically when connected. Optional electrical transfer can supply sensors or electric tools.
Because there is no automatic actuator, the HWR is lighter and cheaper than automatic changers, ideal when tools change only a few times per shift.
Integration and Selection
Select the size for tool mass and moments, and fit a tool-side plate on each tool. Plan air channels and any electrical modules.
Train operators on the locking procedure and verify the tool in the robot program after each change.
Industry Applications
Industry | Typical use |
Machine tending | Switching grippers between batches |
Job shops | Frequent manual changeovers |
Plastics | Changing grippers at molding machines |
Cobot applications | Sharing a cobot among several tools |
Functional Uses
Tool-free manual changeovers
Automatic air connection
Repeatable tool positioning
Optional electrical transfer
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Changes in seconds
No tools required
Integrated air transfer
Low cost compared with automatic changers
Limitations
Operator required
No automatic changing
Tool plate needed per tool
Who Should Consider the Zimmer HWR Manual Tool Changer?
The HWR suits operations that change robot tools manually a few times per shift.
Price and Availability
Price: Request a quote. Zimmer Group prices the HWR by size, options and quantity, so the final figure depends on the exact configuration. Budget for the complete tooling package, including fingers or adapters, mounting, air or electrical connections and commissioning time, rather than the module alone.
Further Reading
Zimmer HWR Manual Tool Changer FAQ
What is the Zimmer HWR?
A manual tool changer for robots with an integrated locking lever.
How fast is a tool change?
Zimmer states tool changes in seconds.
Does it transfer air?
Yes, integrated air transfer activates tool actuators.
Can it transfer power?
Power transmission is possible.
Are tools required?
No, the locking lever is built into the housing.
How much does it cost?
Request a quote from Zimmer Group.
