Auto tool changer Q from newbie

[cncuser1]

On Vertical milling machines, when the toolholder is released from the spindle: Does the toolholder get knocked out from the spindle by the gripper mechanism?

Or is it pulled out by the rest of the change mechism or is gravity relied upon because it is not a self locking taper?

[Mitsui Seiki]

On the VMC's I've been working on there is no knockout mechanism.
The gripper releases it and the arm pulls it out.When the gripper opens the tool is pushed out a bit ,but not by a knockout pin.

[cncuser1]

Originally Posted by Mitsui Seiki .......When the gripper opens the tool is pushed out a bit ,but not by a knockout pin.

This is what I meant, the toolholder is given a little nudge by the gripper mechanism to break contact with the spindle taper.

[Mitsui Seiki]

Exactly.If it does, everything's ok.

[cncuser1]

I have another question.
When the toolholder is fully pulled into the spindle, is there any clearance between the toolholder flange and spindle face.

I would imagine there would be, because you'd want to have the full effect of the taper.