Modular Tooling

Clickfit tooling combines high axial clamping forces with a large cylindrical clamping surface for secure and high-precision toolholding. The large cylindrical surface contact of the toolholder is achieved by micro-elastic deformation of the steel that occurs when a clamping screw pushes the shank of the tool through a narrowed opening inside the hollow adapter. This opening is slightly smaller than the diameter of the toolholder shank, causing micro-elastic deformation of the steel. The tool then sets itself inside in the cylindrical shaped pocket. Contact is made over slightly more than 180 degrees. At the same time, tightening the screw with its conical head into the corresponding hole in the tool pulls the tool backwards until face contact with the adapter is achieved.

The system is said to be stiffer than Weldon devices- in fact, testing showed Clickfit was more stable making a 40 mm depth of cut than Weldon clamping was during a 25 mm depth of cut. The system is available with BT, DIN69871, CAT, and HKS adapters, with straight shank endmills, and with various collet chucks.

Iscar Metals Inc., 300 Westway Place, Arlington, TX 76018-1021. Tel: 817-258-3200.