Approach Changeover from a Different Angle
This flexible tool adapter system for right-angle heads can slash changeover time on almost any lathe or mill using a single live tool – without having to commit to a quick-change system on the initial purchase – and significantly reduce inventory for the busy shop.
Posted: July 16, 2019
The U-tec® flexible adapter system for right-angle heads from Platinum Tooling Technologies Inc. (Prospect Heights, IL) provide the system’s rigidity and quick-change capabilities to users doing deep hole drilling with extended tools. This patented flexible tool adapter system allows a standard ER output live tool to accept various adapters for different applications so that users have the ability for quick changeover of tools on almost any lathe or mill, using a single live tool, without having to commit to a quick-change system on the initial purchase. A facemill adapter, for example, can be quickly positioned into the standard holder without the need for a completely new base being installed. This significantly reduces inventory costs as well as changeover time for the busy shop. “This system represents a real improvement in lathe and mill/turn tooling design,” said Preben Hansen, the president and owner of the company. “U-tec allows great user flexibility while a polygonal drive system ensures extremely high power transmission stability and faster set-up with absolutely no loss in performance or accuracy, because the live tool base remains in position and only the adapter and collet get swapped out.”
Hansen explained how the unique collet nuts on the U-tec system have internal threading for rigid mounting and that this new tool adapter system enables the actual cutting tool to be brought into closer proximity to the bearing, thus further improving performance in use. This benefit results from the short and compact tool length design. Internal coolant up to 2,000 psi (140 bar) is provided as standard. Every adapter in the U-tec system, complete with any necessary clamping nuts and adapters for arbor, Weldon, CAT 40 and CAT 50, is now available in shell mill, face mill, ER extension, side lock, shrink fit, hydraulic and blank styles. U-tec angle heads are compatible with most automatic tool changers, feature 360 deg manual positioning and include torque arms and a stop block. Torque is rated up to 150 Nm (110 ft-lb). The U-tec system is available for all major turning machines on the market.
Platinum Tooling Technologies Inc., 16 East Piper Lane, Suite 129, Prospect Heights, IL 60060, 847-749-0633, Fax: 847-749-2445, info@platinumtooling.com, platinumtooling.com.
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