Re: Auto tool changers - preloading

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., "stephen_stallings" <stevesng@n...>
wrote:

> RayHex,
>
> The something that you missed is that the
> changer arrangement on many large CNC
> machines uses a "fork" with two, or more,
> tool slots between the tool carousel and
> the machine spindle.

Ther may also be som "semantics" problems here too.


A automatic Tool Changer is a mechanical device which physically
takes a cutting tool and it's holder and moves it from one physical
location to another, by removing it from its mounting socket. A CNC
mill with an automatic tool changer is usually referred to as a
Machining Center.

A lathe turret is not a tool changer. It is an indexable tool holder
containing multiple tools. All the tools are moved at once to make a
tool change. It could possibly be called a TOOLS changer ;-) A CNC
lathe with an indexable turret is usually called a Turning Center.

Some expensive lathes have been outfitted with special automation
devices (usually robotics based, end effecters) that can remove a
tool from a random access magazine and securely and accurately place
it in the working area of a lathe. (This feature or the addition of
driven, live spindles for milling or drilling, tools to a Turning
Center is usually also called a Machining Center, which really makes
for confusion.)

Best Regards,

Fred Smith
IMService