Any Auto tool changers out there?

[movingalong]

Is anyone here running automatic tool changers on their diy router machines?

If so, what kind, pics?

If not, why not?

Just curious

[Jack000]

I think the commonly available diy ATC has a max rpm of 10000 because of the large holder thingie. I'm not sure if this is fast enough for wood, since routers are usually around 20000+ rpm.

I'd be interested in a cheap atc as well.

[Thazul]

Here are the ones I have seen over the years:

http://www.hightechsystemsllc.com/rapid_changer.html
(seen here Two more of Joe's CNC Model 2006) I think it has changed some compared to the one implemented in this thread.

The next step up I think is this:
http://www.midwestrapidtool.com/

Then these, scroll down they are lower on the page:
http://www.kelinginc.net/CNCSpindleandController.html


Best Regards,

Andy

[frenzal]

I have been looking at buying a router spindle with ATC (from china) for our machine. Haven't bought anything from the company before but have spoken with them via email quite a bit. Was looking at getting a 1.5kw one which was about US$2100 with the tool holders being around 135 each. I think I came across them on alibaba. The company is called Rebeck Enterprise Co. See attached catalogue.

Cheers,

Leigh

[movingalong]

Originally Posted by Thazul Here are the ones I have seen over the years: http://www.hightechsystemsllc.com/rapid_changer.html (seen here Two more of Joe's CNC Model 2006) I think it has changed some compared to the one implemented in this thread. The next step up I think is this: http://www.midwestrapidtool.com/ Then these, scroll down they are lower on the page: http://www.kelinginc.net/CNCSpindleandController.html Best Regards, Andy

Hmmm... anybody have any experience with any of these systems?

[movingalong]

Originally Posted by frenzal I have been looking at buying a router spindle with ATC (from china) for our machine. Haven't bought anything from the company before but have spoken with them via email quite a bit. Was looking at getting a 1.5kw one which was about US$2100 with the tool holders being around 135 each. I think I came across them on alibaba. The company is called Rebeck Enterprise Co. See attached catalogue. Cheers, Leigh

Leigh,

It'll be interesting to hear how this turns out for you. Let us know.

[eloid]

Originally Posted by movingalong Hmmm... anybody have any experience with any of these systems?

Keiling has no experiance with atc toool changers he could not confirm with me if the spindle required a external actuator to move draw bar for the atc.
He didnt know if the the unit had a built in actuator, and would not provide
info or a product manual to confirm the required set up of the system.
When I inquired he has not sold any units...

If anyone has purchased a unit like this please share you findings.

[movingalong]

Still, no one, I thought a lot more people would have or at least want to have an ATC on their DIY routers.

Too expensive I guess?

[ger21]

Everyone wants one, but $3000 is a LOT of money. You also need to factor in the tool holders and collets, which will run about $150 per tool. So 6 tools brings the price up to $4000.

Keiling has no experience with atc tool changers he could not confirm with me if the spindle required a external actuator to move draw bar for the atc. He didnt know if the the unit had a built in actuator,

You just need compressed air to release and grab the tool. You'll need some type of solenoid valve to control the air going to the spindle.

[eloid]

Originally Posted by ger21 Everyone wants one, but $3000 is a LOT of money. You also need to factor in the tool holders and collets, which will run about $150 per tool. So 6 tools brings the price up to $4000. You just need compressed air to release and grab the tool. You'll need some type of solenoid valve to control the air going to the spindle.

If you buy from flee bay 3k is about right, with some research and illingness to do some leg work you could save a fair coin
but still a very large investment $ required.. i seen tool holders for 99 bucks...
depends on what you need for type..

keiling could not give and help as to how the system works or if his atc had a built in actuator in them.... sad...

[movingalong]

I'd really be interested in anybody who has had experience the the Midwest Rapid Tool system, if there is anyone out there?

[Levil]

This is just another Auto-Tool change solution. http://levil.com/CNC_Accessories.htm
The Spindle that you see there comes with an amplifier, 4 tool holders and tool holder rack (total $4500). If you just need the spindle with tool holders it runs about $3100.