BIG DAISHOWA. “The prototype lab is a place where everything is under a microscope in a way. All eyes are on the details. It was great to have the opportunity to demonstrate our tools under those conditions—that’s where the value is clearly evident, with what we refer to as the ‘economy of quality.’” Marty decided to purchase one package of 15 MEGA MICRO chucks to use with all of Trek’s cutters 0.25" (6.35 mm) in diameter and under. “The quality of the tool holders themselves was just phenomenal, better than I’ve seen on any tool holders before,” Marty said. “The finish on every single surface of the holder is just fantastic and that just screams quality when you pull it out of the box.” The slim nut and simple collet clamping turned out to be the best of both worlds for Trek, according to Marty. “The MEGA MICRO chucks have the same profiles and shapes of shrink fit holders with the versatility of collets,” he said. “You can use basically any size shank you want. They’re balanced a lot better, so they don’t vibrate as much as the ER 32s that we were running previously.” The extreme tilts the programming software once had to adjust for have been eliminated. “I’d say probably 50 percent of our reach issues were resolved just by changing holders without manually changing the way things are programmed. The machine only has to tilt maybe 10 degrees out of the way to get down into the pockets. We’re able to reach into places we weren’t before without extravagant, cobbled-together extensions, and all with higher speeds, feeds and finishes.” As with any specific technology or equipment, shrink fit holders have their unique advantages. And, as with every shop, the cost or time required for the perfect solution isn’t always an option. Marty knew exactly what he needed, though—easy changeover and access—and through research and trial found the alternative that could deliver on a budget. CONTRIBUTOR Cory Marty is the Senior Engineering Technician at Trek’s Prototype Development Lab. Mark Sazy is the Regional Sales Manager at BIG DAISHOWA. mark.sazy@us.bigdaishowa.com
CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT
The BIG-PLUS Difference Andretti Autosport’s Engineering Manager explains the BIG-PLUS Difference. Charlie Mitchell, Manufacturing Engineering Manager for Andretti Autosport, explains how the BIG-PLUS spindle system differs from conventional tool holders.
BIG-PLUS
Conventional
FIT
FIT
SPACE
WATCH VIDEO
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
C3 PROGRAM Additions include mono-block holders with a tough and reliable insert clamp that enables highly efficient cutting; square tool holders in 90° and 180° types; and round tool holders with an ultra-slim design.
SQUARE TYPE
ROUND TYPE
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