The machining center is developed from a basic CNC milling machine. It integrates all the features and functions of the CNC milling machine. The only difference from the CNC milling machine is that the machining center has an automatic tool changer that can realize automatic tool change during machining. However, the CNC milling machine does not have an automatic tool changer and cannot realize the automatic tool change function. This is the only difference between the CNC milling machine and the machining center. Today I will introduce the automatic tool changer.
Composition of automatic tool changer in machining center
The automatic tool changer of the machining center is composed of parts such as a tool magazine, a robot arm, and a drive mechanism. The tool magazine stores tools required for processing. There are many types of tool magazines, which are mainly classified according to shape. There are many types of tool magazines such as bucket-type tool magazines, disc-type tool magazines and chain-type tool magazines. The capacity of these tool magazines ranges from several to hundreds of tools. There are two types of tool magazines commonly used in the machining center on the market: the two types of tool magazines and the disc type magazine. The chain type magazine is expensive, so it is not used by many manufacturers. The following editor will introduce the tool change method.
Tool changing method of the bucket-shaped tool magazine
The tool change method of the bucket-type tool magazine is relatively simple. This type of tool magazine does not have a mechanical arm, so there is no need to use a mechanical arm to complete the tool change. The tool change method of the tool magazine is this: the tool magazine moves to the spindle to realize the tool change. This type has the advantages of high cost performance, easy maintenance, and simple structure. The disadvantage is that the tool change speed is slow.
Tool changing method of disc type tool magazine
The tool-changing method of the disc-type tool magazine is relatively complicated. The robot arm mainly completes the tool-changing action. The manipulator takes the tool 180 ° out of the tool magazine and rotates it into the spindle to complete the tool change. This type of tool magazine has the advantages of fast tool change speed. Its disadvantages are its complicated structure, inconvenient maintenance, and high failure rate.
Although the tool change method, tool selection method and tool structure of these tool magazines are different, they are all controlled by the CNC system, and the selection and exchange of tools are realized by motors, pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, and manipulators.
