9.1 Umbrella Tool Changer Overview

Tool Changers

There are (2) types of mill tool changers: the umbrella style (UTC), and the side-mount tool changer (SMTC). You command both tool changers in the same way, but you set them up differently.

Make sure the machine is zero returned. If it is not, press POWER UP.

Use TOOL RELEASE, ATC FWD, and ATC REV to manually command the tool changer. There are (2) tool release buttons; one on the spindle head cover and another on the keyboard.

Loading the Tool Changer

CAUTION: Do not exceed the maximum tool changer specifications. Extremely heavy tool weights should be distributed evenly. This means heavy tools should be located across from one another, not next to each other. Ensure there is adequate clearance between tools in the tool changer; this distance is 3.6" for a 20-pocket and 3” for a 24+1 pocket. Check your tool changer specifications for the correct minimal clearance between tools.

NOTE: Low air pressure or insufficient volume reduces the pressure applied to the tool release piston and will slow down tool change time or will not release the tool.

WARNING: Stay away from the tool changer during power up, power down, and during tool changer operations.

Always load tools into the tool changer from the spindle. Never load a tool directly into the tool changer carousel. Some mills have remote tool changer controls to let you inspect and replace tools at the carousel. This station is not for initial loading and tool assignment.

CAUTION: Tools that make a loud noise when released indicate a problem and should be checked before serious damage occurs to the tool changer or spindle.

9.2 Tool Loading

Tool Loading for a Umbrella Tool Changer

1

This section tells you how to load tools into an empty tool changer for a new application. It assumes that the pocket tool table still contains information from the previous application.

Make sure your tool holders have the correct pull stud type for the mill.

2

Tools are loaded into the umbrella tool changer by first loading the tool into the spindle. To load a tool into the spindle, prepare the tool and then follow these steps:

Ensure the tools loaded have the correct pull stud type for the mill.

Press MDI/DNC for MDI mode.

Organize the tools to match to the CNC program.

Take tool in hand and insert the tool (pull stud first) into the spindle. Turn the tool so that the two cutouts in the tool holder line up with the tabs of the spindle. Push the tool upward while pressing the Tool Release button. When the tool is fitted into the spindle, release the Tool Release button.

Press ATC FWD.

Repeat Steps 4 and 5 with the remaining tools until all the tools are loaded.

9.3 Umbrella Tool Changer Recovery

Umbrella Tool Changer Recovery

If the tool changer jams, the control will automatically come to an alarm state. To correct this:

WARNING: Never put your hands near the tool changer unless there is an alarm displayed first.

  1. Remove the cause of the jam.
  2. Press RESET to clear the alarms.
  3. Press RECOVER and follow the directions to reset the tool changer.
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