An automatic tool changer often referred to as an ATC, is used to improve both the production and the tool carrying capacity of a computerised numerical control or CNC router machine. It does this by allowing the machine to work with various different tools. As such it is part of the process to achieve full automation.

 

An automatic tool changer is generally comprised of a base, arms with a gripper, a tool holder and a support arm as well as the tool magazines. The array of tools are stored within a magazine which allows the machine to access a wider variety of them without the need for an operator.

 

An ATC is capable of increasing the speed and accuracy as well as the reliability of a CNC machine but it does have certain requirements. Some of these include the need for the tools to be easy to centre as well as simple for the grabber arm to hold as well as easy to automatically disengage. To provide this, tools used in an ATC are usually held by specially designed tool holders.

 

ATC come in two variants depending on the magazine’s shape. Some are on rotary holders on a turntable type setup with claws holding each tool in its own location. Some are straight static racks of tools that are mechanically much simple.

 

If you need to know about an ATC CNC Router machine, you can learn about the product performance and price on the ACCTEK official website. If you have any questions, you can communicate with our staff online, we are honored to help you.