ATC module for ER20 spindles

[Daz]

Hello everyone,

I have developed an Automated Tool Changer module for ER20 spindles. It works on the impact driver principle and delivers 35Nm or more of nut-tightening torque, meeting the ER20 spec. Happy to chat and answer any questions. Let me know what you think.

Here is a video of its operating principle:
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/eBymr9Z7TvU

And here, when I used it to mill an aluminium vacuum holding plate, doing some decent cuts with an 11mm, 2 flute end mill.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FH3Ue6h8MHE&t=1s

[EddyCurrent]

Daz,

I've posted a link to this on the CamBam forum, it is very interesting. https://cambamcnc.com/forum/index.ph...80626#msg80626

[Daz]

Thanks, much appreciated! Let me know if you have any questions, happy to chat.

[needleworks]

No idea how it works mate but it certainly looks good !!

[EddyCurrent]

Daz,

Someone on the CamBam forum asked if there were any issues around cross threading of the collet nut.

[Daz]

Hi, thanks. I was trying to register on the CamBam forum, but the registration is disabled. I have reached out to the support for help.

With regard to the question about cross-threading, I have performed about 300+ tool loading and unloading cycles during development and subsequent use and didn't have a single cross-threading problem. The cross threading can happen if the spindle doesn't have a good concentricity with the tool holder, or the tool holder gets dirty with swarf, and the nut doesn't sit straight in the holder.

The tool holder can take quite a large degree of concentricity misalignment, but if a machine has crap homing, and one of the axes is off by a few mm from the previously set position, then I expect the cross threading can happen.

[EddyCurrent]

Daz,

There have been ongoing problems with the CamBam forum but in the past month or so a new top admin has stepped in to sort things out, his handle is "kneave".
Our stalwart admin is David, handle "dh42", he has had limited access to perform top level stuff but has worked hard on the things he could do, I've alerted him to your case.

300+ is a good record for no cross threads. I have found in the past that it's mostly the nut at fault rather than the spindle nose so that's a good thing at least.
As you point out in the video, shielding the tool holder rack from swarf etc. is key.

[Daz]

My project this weekend is to upgrade the tool rack cover. I will post a video once I have it running.

[dh42]

Hello

Send me a PM with the login, email and password you want and I'll create an account for you on the CamBam forum.

I can't find how to send you a private message ...

++
David