In this post, Chuck Shive with Chips & Tips explains why a shop would need a Rego-fix Press-fit Tool Setter System: what it does, why it’s used, and how to use it.
1. Why should your shop use a Press-fit Tool Holder?
They’re not cheap, but if you ask anyone who uses a Press-fit tool holder, they will tell you that they pay for themselves time and time again. Press-fit tool holders:
- Help maintain tight tolerances.
- Help achieve the best finishes on your parts.
- Reduce your tool runout.
- Reduce tool vibrations.
- Ultimately increase tool life.
- Improve precision.
2. How to operate a Press-fit system?
To operate a Press-fit system is very simple and user friendly. You just need:
- An automatic press fit machine, such as the Rego-fix Press-fit.
- A tool die for the particular tool shape and size you want to use.
- A Press-fit Tool Holder.
- A set of collets that have the ability to press fit various tool sizes.
- Choose the correct tool die for your tool shank.
- Insert and match up your tool holder taper to the proper location in the die.
- Close the door.
- Press the green button. On the Rego-fix machine, the button will flash while operating and turn solidly lit when finished.
- Take the tool out.
- Replace the collet.
- Insert the tool bit.
- Place the tool holder back in.
- Press the green button. On the Rego-fix machine, the button will flash while operating and turn solidly lit when finished.
- Remove your new Press-fit tool and you’re ready to go!
Also, if you look at the collet, you can manage your tool length because most collets have a set pin on the bottom. This allows you to preset the length of your tool, which ends up being super convenient.
3. What to expect from the Rego-fix Press-fit tool holder?
Fun facts about these Rego-fix tool holders and the collet system:
- They have a utility life of ≅20,000 cycles or uses.
- They come with a 5-year warranty
- It’s guaranteed to hold ≤ 3 micron runout at 3xd.
- The press unit does not require any maintenance other than normal cleaning.
4. What materials and shank sizes work for this system?
Most of your normal tooling materials work with a Press-fit system, including:
- solid carbide
- high-speed steel
- cylindrical welding
- whistle notch
Shank sizes depend on your die, but the Rego-fix Press-fit is capable of holding a 0.2 millimeter up to 25.4 millimeter size. It is compatible with multiple different spindle interfaces, including HSK, CAPTO, BT, SK, and CAT.
5. What’s the difference between Press-fit versus Shrink-fit?
Well, we asked our shop manager and he said hands down Press-fit tool holders are the way to go. He uses them all day in our own shop while making Onsrud machines. Why?
Press fit:
- Safer
- Faster changeover times between tool up.
- Longer utility life.
- Rego-fix does not require cooling of the tool after press assembly.
- Within 20 seconds, you can have your tool set, and ready to rip.
Shrink fit:
- You have to wait 5-10 minutes for larger diameter tools above a half inch per se before you can use that tool.
- Shorter utility life.
- Time may depend on if you have cooling jackets or if you’re using air.
6. Where to buy this system?
Lastly on our list of top things you need to know is where to buy one? You can purchase the Rego-fix automatic Press-fit system tool holders and collets right now on our website: https://www.cronsrud.com/store/index.php. Or give our tooling department a call at: 704-508-7000.
Or, if you’re struggling with any production issues and would like to see if we have a solution for you, please give C.R. Onsrud a call at: 704-508-7000, reach out via email: info@cronsrud.com. We are happy to help you any way we can.
