Slide system `makes specials standard`

Hepco Slide Systems has unveiled the fourth generation of its linear motion system, offering so many permutations and combinations that it will solve any linear motion problem, according to the company.

"We`re turning specials into standards," says Hepco`s sales director, Chris Rees. There is no other single system offering as many options, he adds.

The company has spent three years and more than £1m developing the GV3 system which combines components from its Generation II and CM slide systems with new elements. There is a choice of more than 100 slides, 100 carriages and 200 bearings.

"We`ve taken the best of the existing system and added the bits that customers said were missing," says Rees.

To provide the flexibility to supply such a wide range of components, Hepco has invested heavily in just-in-time (JIT) production techniques that will allow it to produce small batches quickly and economically. Any item will be available in seven or eight days, says Rees. "We are holding components in a part-finished condition and feeding them through CNC machines when needed," he explains.

The GV3 system includes slides in three degrees of precision, three type of bearing (twin, double-row and single-row types) removable carriages, and three styles of rack-driven carriage.

Robin Hill, Hepco`s marketing executive, says that GV3 will become the company`s core product, accounting for around 70% of its sales.