Re: Tool changing?

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, Jon Elson <elson@p...> wrote:

> I know about offsets in the program, but what about on the
> >machine? My machine has a MT2 spindle and I'm using collets to

hold the

> >cutters. Do I need to make stop collars or something for each

cutter?

> Collets generally can't position tools precisely. The problem is
> that very narrow tapers like the Morse can be moved a few

thousandths

> just by cranking on the drawbar.

Hmm, that's bad. I was planning to use just straight MT2 collets to
hold the cutters. It sounds like what I really need is a collet chuck
that stays in the spindle all the time.

> Of course, if you can't get end mill holders for the MT2 spindle,

you

> have a problem.

Endmill holders won't really help because you still have to deal with
the MT2.

How about this. If I make an extension to the end of the drawbar so
that it protrudes down through most of the length of the collet. Then
the cutter is pushed up into the collet until it hits the drawbar.
When the drawbar is tightened it pulls the collet in but the tool
can't move because it's up against the drawbar. It's sounds like kind
of a kludge but I think it might work.

C|