The Cliff PM-1 component preforming machine is designed to cut to length and preform axial lead components ready for fitting into a PC board, where the component is parallel to the board. The components may be fed in bandolier form (assuming a 5mm pitch between components or multiples thereof), or loose by means of the built-in chute slots. Finished components can be collected in a box (not included) placed under the cutter head, or (preferably) in front of the machine using the metal chute under the cutters. All adjustments are carried out on top of the machine using the built-in scales. Setting instructions are printed on the machine. Components are cut and formed without scoring or damaging the leads. Wire links can also be rapidly produced from bandoliered wire. General construction features anodised aluminium body with heavy steel sides.
The free running blades are 35mm diameter and produced in M2 high-speed steel
The cutting and bending wheels are in high carbon steel, all are hardened and tempered as appropriate
The bandolier drum supports have lugs which latch into keyhole slots on the sides of the machine allowing the drum to sit over the machine when in use
This system takes up less space and allows gravity feed of components into the machine
The machine will cut and form a comfortable and effortless 40,000 components an hour
Guards are fitted all round the cutting and vending wheels for protection of fingers
If you are constantly bending components then this could save you a lot of time and effort. This plows through 1000s of resistors, straight from the box, in seconds, bends them to the correct pitch and cuts the leads to length, too. It's a bit fiddly to set up, I still can't fathom it properly, but it seems to work. The only downside is the hefty price tag, you'll need to weigh up your time-cost and if it's worth investing.
