An automatic tool changer – or ATC – is one of the most beneficial forms of automation you can implement within your CNC machine operation, helping you seamlessly change tools in seconds without having to pause operation. Here is a closer look at what an automatic tool changer is and how it works.
What is an automatic tool changer?
An automatic tool changer improves the production and tool-carrying capacity of a CNC machine by changing tools very quickly without the help of a manual operator. In doing so, the ATC dramatically reduces downtime on a given project.
ATC is generally used to improve the capacity of a machine to work with several tools at one time. There are generally two types of automatic tool changers – disc tool magazine and linear tool magazine. With 8-10 pieces auto tool changers. You can choose the number of tools according to the actual machining needs.
How does an automatic tool changer work?
Once set up on your CNC machine, an automatic tool changer follows a quick set of steps to swap tools in and out. Here’s how it works.
1. The tool change command is given to the machine via the computer.
2. The tool to be changed assumes a fixed position known as the “tool change position.”
3. The ATC spindle moves to that position to pick up the tool.
4. The z-axis moves between the machine tool rack/rotary to pick up/drop off tooling.
5. Internally, the spindle opens or closes the chuck to exchange tooling before returning back to work.
In a matter of seconds, an ATC enables you to switch tools automatically without any need for human involvement (apart from programming the change).
The automatic tool changer generally loads several tools
The CNC router table size is different, and the number of tools loaded by the automatic tool changer it is equipped with is different. In general, the automatic tool changer of 4x4 cnc router and 2x4 cnc router can load 4 tools; the automatic tool changer of 4x8 cnc router and 5x10 cnc router can load 8 tools; the larger size ATC CNC router can load 12 tools . The number of specific tools also needs to be selected according to your processing needs, which is related to how many operations you perform on a sheet.
The video shows you the process of 5x10 ATC CNC router machining of the door panel. The whole process involves three different processes. The machine can complete the automatic tool change in just a few seconds and start the next process. The work efficiency is very high. The CNC machine with automatic tool changer plays an important role in the development of large enterprises. It can improve the production efficiency for the workshop and expand the business scope for the company.
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