Back in the day, when a Bridgeport vertical knee mill was a serious piece of machining equipment, you could mount a tool simply by pushing it into a collet, lock the quill and an open-end wrench was your best friend.
Today’s equipment is multi-axis, automated and has tools that spin at incredible RPMs.
In the video above, we talk about how modern issues with machining parts are being solved thanks to the latest in hydraulic toolholding with Matt Panosh, group manager for tooling at SCHUNK.
“The three key components are balance, runout accuracy and ease-of-use,” said Panosh. “With hydraulic toolholder systems, it’s very simple – you turn the actuation screw down to a dead stop and it clamps the tool. You don’t need to worry about repeatability or accuracy when it simply clamps the tool concentrically.”
Schunk’s TENDO series of hydraulic toolholders are available in two different gauge lengths, including CAD40 and CAD50, HSK, CAPTO. Their Platinum series line include H11 tool steel, through-hardened to 52C-54C Rockwell.
Panosh explains that fast speed and fast changeover are possible with zero runout.
“It’s much easier and much more effective when we work within the elastic range for the material. Hydraulic toolholding systems have a tight tolerance between the bore and the cutting tool, requiring H6 tolerance tool shanks in carbide and high strength steel.”
Perceptions against hydraulic toolholding often come down to cost. Schunk designed their E compact line to bring affordability to the technology.
“We have hydraulic toolholders for everybody and for every budget,” Panosh said.
For more information on hydraulic tooling and Schunk’s available products, watch the video above or visit Schunk’s website.