November 1, 2006 - RAMSEY, MN - Command Tooling Systems has announced the expansion of its ThermoLock® Shrink-Fit product line with the addition of metric BT, DIN & various HSK toolholders, 3º tapered nose extensions along with five new tool changers, making this extensive new offering of shrink-fit solutions one of the most comprehensive industry-wide. Command ThermoLock toolholders and extensions incorporate industry-proven Shrinker technology, offering excellent clamping characteristics and balance repeatability. “The continued expansion of ThermoLock toolholders is essential for today’s high speed machining centers,” stated Dennis King, director of engineering for Command. “Shrink-fit provides an exceptional surface finish, superior repeatablity and extended tool life.”
King added, “ThermoLock extensions allow tools to fit in difficult-to-reach areas and expand the use of larger holders to utilize smaller tools.” The ThermoLock system offers superior runout for increased tool life and improved surface finish. Easier changeover and faster setup increases spindle uptime and throughput, along with faster cycle times and reduced scrap. ThermoLock has no moving parts, set screws, collets or nosepieces, yet provides excellent 360º concentric clamping force and the highest degree of balance available. The enclosed design makes ThermoLock components virtually maintenance-free.
Command’s offering of ThermoLock Shrink-Fit Extensions in both metric and fractional sizes provide an expanded cutting range in difficult to reach areas and are ideal for tools with small diameters. ThermoLock extensions are available with a 4.5º taper and new 3º tapered nose in slim and extra slim. Command has also expanded its offering of ThermoLock Shrink-Fit Toolholders to include metric sizes with BT40 & 50, DIN40 & 50, HSK50, HSK63 and HSK100 available in extended lengths up to 200 mm. Five new tool changers range from a simple one-station solution to a combination model with a presetting unit.
The Mini Shrink-Fit Tool Changer offers a single station tool changer unit for solid carbide tool diameters up to .630" (16mm). The New Generation Three-Station Tool Changer is designed for HSS and carbide tool diameters up to 1.26" (32mm) and the heavy duty New Generation Three-Station Tool Changer is designed for HSS and carbide tool diameters up to 2.00" (51mm).
The Combination Shrink-Fit Tool Changer with Presetter function is a single station changer for HSS and carbide tool diameters up to 1.26" (32mm) with length presetting up to 19.69" (500mm). Each of the tool changers are integrated with a new intelligent heating coil and rear wall cooling adapters. The coil adjusts to the length and diameter of the holder and heats only the shrinking area, which allows fast shrinking and cooling times.
Command Tooling Systems is the technology leader in toolholder manufacturing for high-precision machining operations serving many industries, including automotive, aerospace, computer, defense, electronic, job shop and medical equipment. Command is committed to providing tooling solutions of the highest quality, with immediate availability.