In modern mechanical processing, CNC holders are one of the essential tools. They are used to hold different types of tools, such as end mills, drills, and taps. Choosing the right CNC holder can not only improve processing efficiency but also ensure machining accuracy. This article will explore the different types of CNC holders and how to choose according to actual needs.
Cylindrical Straight Shank Holder
The cylindrical straight shank tool holder is a common CNC holder that can hold tools evenly, ensuring optimal runout accuracy during milling, drilling, and reaming. Its structure is simple, but without plane or locking functions, its torque and axial force limitations are significant. Exceeding these limits may cause the tool to shift within the holder. Therefore, it is essential to consider the working conditions during selection to ensure the tool holder's clamping ability is not exceeded.
Hydraulic Holder
Hydraulicholders are favored for many high-precision machining applications due to their strong clamping force and excellent runout accuracy. They are easy to install and remove without additional equipment. The collet design of hydraulic holders reduces the number of required holders while efficiently delivering coolant, making them particularly suitable for situations requiring efficient cutting and good cooling. When selecting a hydraulic holder, consider the workpiece material and tolerance requirements to ensure optimal machining results.
Heat Shrink Holder
The heat shrink holder is a type of CNC holder that uses the principle of thermal expansion, mainly for solid carbide round shank tools. Its holder bore is slightly smaller than the tool shank diameter, and tools can be easily replaced after heating. Heat shrink holders are suitable for production sites where tools are set in a tool room, providing medium to high clamping force and good runout accuracy. When selecting a heat shrink holder, ensure there is adequate heating equipment to complete the tool replacement successfully.
Tool Type and Machining Requirements
When choosing a CNC holder, first consider the type of tool used and the machining requirements. For drilling and light milling applications, ER spring collet holders may be an economical choice, while hydraulic or heat shrink holders are more suitable for applications requiring high clamping force and precision.
Material and Tolerance Requirements
Different materials have different requirements for tool holders. For example, soft metals like aluminum alloys may not require high clamping force, whereas hard metals like stainless steel need a stronger clamping ability. When selecting a CNC holder, it is necessary to consider the workpiece material and tolerance to ensure the stability and accuracy of machining.
Production Scale
Production scale is also an important factor when choosing CNC holders. High-volume production usually requires quick tool changes and high efficiency, making hydraulic holders more suitable. In contrast, hybrid production may be more suited to the flexible ER spring collet holders to meet the needs of different tools.
When choosing CNC holders, considering tool type, material tolerance, and production scale is crucial. Different types of CNC holders have their pros and cons and are suitable for different machining scenarios. By making reasonable choices, processing efficiency can be increased, and product quality can be ensured. Therefore, in practical applications, reasonable evaluation and selection of appropriate CNC holders will bring significant advantages to your machining process.