A CNC milling tool changer is a device that stores different milling tools in a tool magazine and automatically changes tools with the help of a short G code. It eliminates the need for manual tool changes for many tasks, thus shortening the machining cycle.
To choose a CNC milling tool changer that suits you, you need to consider multiple factors such as machine tool type, processing requirements, tool management, cost, etc. The following are specific points:
Machine Tool Type and Specifications
- Machine tool type: Different types of machine tools have different requirements for milling tool changers. For example, vertical machining centers generally use tool magazine or robot tool changers, while horizontal machining centers may be more suitable for turret tool changers because they can change tools in multiple directions and can better meet the processing needs of complex parts.
- Machine tool specifications: Large machine tools usually need to carry more tools and changers with greater tool change torque. For example, large gantry machining centers may need to be equipped with large-capacity tool magazine tool changers to meet the needs of changing a large number of different tools; while small machine tools can choose linear or robot tool changers with compact structure and small space.
Processing Requirements
- Processing type: If you are processing multiple varieties and small batches, you need to frequently change different types of tools. Then a tool magazine-type tool changer with a large tool magazine capacity and a fast tool change speed is more suitable, which can improve processing efficiency; if you are processing a single variety and a large batch, the tool change speed requirement is relatively low, and you can choose a tool changer with a simple structure and low cost.
- Processing accuracy: High-precision processing requires the tool changer to have high repeat positioning accuracy and stability to ensure the position accuracy of the tool after each tool change. For example, in occasions with extremely high precision requirements such as optical parts processing, a tool magazine-type or manipulator-type tool changer with high repeat positioning accuracy should be selected, and the tool clamping and release device should be able to provide a stable clamping force.
Tool System
Tool type and size: Different tool types and sizes need to match the corresponding tool changer. For example, for large-diameter and heavy tools, you need to choose a tool changer that can bear a large weight and torque, such as some large tool magazine-type tool changers or turret-type tool changers; for small tools, you can choose a linear or manipulator-type tool changer.
Tool interface: The interface form of the tool (such as BT, HSK, etc.) must match the interface of the tool changer. Ensure that the tool changer can accurately grasp and install the tool, and ensure the connection accuracy and stability between the tool and the spindle.
Tool Change Speed and Efficiency
Tool change time: Tool change time is one of the important factors affecting processing efficiency. In some occasions where processing efficiency is extremely high, such as automotive parts processing, a tool changer with a fast tool change speed should be selected, such as a tool magazine tool changer with a high-speed tool changer manipulator, whose tool change time can reach several seconds or even shorter.
Action coordination: The coordination between the various actions of the tool changer will also affect the tool change efficiency. For example, the rotation speed of the tool magazine, the grasping and placing actions of the manipulator, etc. should cooperate with each other to reduce the waiting time during the tool change process.
Reliability and Stability
Brand and reputation: Choose a well-known brand and a tool changer with a good reputation, which is more secure in design, manufacturing process and quality control, and can provide higher reliability and stability. You can learn about the quality and performance of tool changers of different brands by consulting product information, consulting other users, or referring to industry reviews.
Protection and maintenance: The tool changer should have good protective devices to prevent chips, coolants, etc. from entering the mechanism and affecting its normal operation. At the same time, easy maintenance and care are also important considerations, such as convenient lubrication systems, easy-to-check and replace parts, etc., which can reduce maintenance costs and downtime.
Cost Factors
Procurement cost: The prices of tool changers of different types and specifications vary greatly. On the premise of meeting the processing needs, the appropriate tool changer should be selected according to the budget. Generally speaking, the price of tool magazine tool changers is relatively high, while the price of linear and manipulator tool changers is relatively low.
Operating cost: including energy consumption, maintenance and maintenance costs, tool wear, etc. For example, some high-speed tool changers have fast tool change speeds, but high energy consumption and relatively high maintenance requirements; while some simple tool changers have low procurement costs, but may have certain limitations in tool change efficiency and tool life, and it is necessary to comprehensively consider the impact of these factors on long-term operating costs.
The above content describes in detail how to choose a CNC milling tool changer. If you have any questions related to CNC milling, please leave us a message.
