Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Tool changing

Actually, Alan, I have an ENCO quick-change adapter set
that fits the R-8 spindle of my ENCO 9 x 42. In fact, when
it looked like they were phasing them out, I bought two
more sets! They were going for, like, $699 per set, but if
you've ever used your mill for money payin' jobs, you'd see
how much Q-C is worth. The units came with a Master Holder
that accepted their fat-tapered tool holders, several sizes
of end mill holders, a set of collets & holder (I think
ER-40, 1/8 thru 1, by 1/8ths). Also, a JT-33 drillchuck
holder. Sadly, ENCO doesn't sell them anymore (I got mine
in early '90's last century, not the one before).

RayHex


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> From: Alan Matheson <hokianga@...>
>
> I'm interested in the possibilty of fitting an automatic

tool change

> mechanisim to my R8 CNC converted drill mill. My thoughts

were to use a

> pneumatically activated 20 mm R8 collet that picked up

tools (mainly drills

> and small slot mills ) each mounted in 20 mm diameter

holders. These would

> be in a dispenser at one end of the mill table. The

holders would have a

> flange of some sort at the collet end to fix the position

when the collet

> was closed. Means I could only use tools up to a shank

diameter of say 16

> mm but that would be enough for many jobs. All activated

by a modified

> TurboCNC.
>
> Has anyone done this sort of thing. Ive looked around the

web quite a bit

> but so far haven't found too much detail on how automatic

tool changing on

> commercial CNC machines is accomplished. Any leads would

be appreciated.

>
> I don't really have to have this feature BUT what a nice

toy!

>
> Alan Matheson