Tool Heat Shrink Technology: Your Advantages
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
To what temperature is the tool holder heated during the heat-shrink process?
This depends on the holder's geometry, the clamping diameter, and the taper size. While some standard holders have a 4.5-degree taper, slim holders have a 3-degree taper. Depending on the type, different temperatures ranging from 150˚C to 350˚C are used during shrink fitting.
What types of cutting materials can be used in shrink-fit holders for the shrink-fit process?
Steel, HSS, carbide, heavy metals, metal powders, collet extensions.
What is the required tolerance for the shank diameter of the cutting tool when used with a shrink-fit tool holder?
The shank tolerance of the cutting tool must be h6 or h5.
Is it possible to monitor the lifetime of the tool holder and the number of shrink cycles it has undergone?
With the ZOLLER »powerShrink«, it is possible to monitor the tool holder’s heating cycles using a unique tool holder ID number—for example, via ZOLLER »idChip« technology. Each cycle is monitored and recorded in the »pilot« software.
What are the minimum and maximum heating times?
The heating time depends on the geometry of the tool holder and the clamping diameter. For small diameters, it takes 2 to 3 seconds; for large diameters, 5 to 7 seconds.
What are the minimum and maximum cooling times?
ZOLLER offers two types of cooling systems: a non-contact cooling system with air cooling and cooling adapters. Depending on the tool diameter, the cooling time with cooling adapters ranges from 60 to 120 seconds. With »zStream« air cooling, the process is called “conditioning,” during which the entire tool holder is cooled from the projection to the flange. The conditioning time depends on the diameter of the tool holder and ranges from 3 to 5 minutes.
Is an air-conditioned room required to install the »powerShrink« device?
An air-conditioned room is not required. The device can be installed in a dust-free area in the machine shop.
How does shrink fitting work, and what kind of process takes place here?
The concept is simple. Each shrink-fit tool holder is manufactured with an inner diameter that is slightly smaller than the shank diameter of the cutting tool. An induction heater is used to rapidly heat the nose of the tool holder in order to increase the inner diameter. At this point, the cutting tool can be inserted into the tool holder. The tool holder is then cooled, causing the diameter to shrink and applying force to the shank of the cutting tool to hold it in exact position.
What is non-contact cooling and contact cooling?
When tool holders are cooled without direct contact with a liquid, this is referred to as non-contact cooling. This is achieved, for example, using cooling adapters or air cooling.
When tool holders are cooled with a liquid after being heated, this process is called quenching. The tool holder’s lifetime is reduced, and it will rust if it continues to be used with liquids in direct contact with it. The coolant becomes contaminated after a short time and must be replaced; otherwise, it will break down, emit a strong odor, and contain harmful substances that are dangerous to human skin.
Is it possible to use the same shrink machine for standard diameters ranging from 3 to 32 mm and heavy-duty shrink holders for diameters greater than 32 mm?
Yes, it is possible with the ZOLLER »powerShrink 600«, which allows the 14 kVA induction coil and the 22 kVA induction coil to be quickly and simply exchanged using the quick-change interface.
Is it possible to adjust the total length of the tool after it has been shrunk with the »powerShrink« machine?
Yes, with the »eQset« and »liteSet« adjustment systems, it is possible to preset the total length of the tool on the »powerShrink«.
