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How does it work?

The Grip Fast™ slides on/or in one direction and locks automatically in the opposite direction. The ball bearings jam themselves between the inner metal ring and the shaft, locking the collar and the object the collar is to hold, in place.

What situations have been noted as being possible causes for Grip Fast™ to not perform at 100%?

Due to the fact that the collar is made with ball bearings, the collar can spin radically on the shaft and slowly back off it's hold. As well, if there is too much play in the tolerance between the shaft O.D. and the collar I.D., it can be wiggled back and forth or side to side and cause it to slowly back off it's hold.

Action: For spinning there are few options to overcome this objection. First, if there is a thrust bearing placed between the collar and the object it is holding in place, the thrust bearing will spin and not the collar. Second, if the shaft and collar are keyed, the collar will not spin. Third option is also applicable to the wiggling scenario; if a radial groove is placed in the shaft at the precise place where the ball bearings should line up to hold the collar in place for their needs, this will keep the collar from backing off whether it spins or wiggles. There is a prototype design in the patent pending stage that will lock the collar in a rotational angle. It is now being tested in various applications.

What is the maximum holding force?

The Grip Fast™ is designed to hold and unlimited amount of weight. There are some variables that can play a role in deciding how much it can hold. If a customer has a specific application in mind and has the technical information, we can enter those variables into our computer analysis program to determine how the collar will react in that application and, if needed, make the necessary modifications to make it work. Here are the variables:

1. Ball bearing quantity, size and hardness
2. Shaft size, tolerance, hardness
3. Retention ring thickness, hardness, angle of taper
4. Coefficient of friction on all parts

Can I get them in metal?

Yes, but the holding force will not change! The price will.

What is the difference between plastic and metal?

Plastic will not rust, it is light weight, easier to handle and release, is more cost effective and has exactly the same holding force as the metal does. SMI Inc. warrants all Grip Fast™ collars for one full year after date of purchase - assuming normal use.

What are the tolerances for each collar?

Collars made to fit shafts of ½" and under are designed to fit their shaft size within +/- 0.010". All collars for over ½" shafts are designed to fit their bore size within at least +/_ 0.020 inches.

Is there volume pricing available?

Yes, call, fax, or e-mail for a quote.

Why does it cost so much more than standard collars?

They cost more to make than the standard collars and more than pay for themselves through increased productivity and decreased down time for the operation as well as increased safely standards and reduced potential of repetitive motion injury.

Can I get them in a different color?

Yes. There is a 1,000 piece minimum order per size.

Can it be modified to fit my application?

Yes. There are additional costs for specific requirements. Call for a quote.

Can I get more technical information/literature?

Yes. Call, fax, or write SMI.

Can I try just one, or a small quantity, for testing?

Yes, just call, fax, or write.

How long will it take to get my order?

Stocked models are generally shipped within one to seven days after receipt of the purchase order. Non-stock orders will generally take 3 - 6 weeks.