Category Archive: Blog

Workholding Highlights: Special Application Jaws for Gears

In precision machining, the power of a workholding solution isn’t just in the chuck itself but also in the jaws that come into direct contact with the workpiece. Custom jaws play an essential role in the efficiency, accuracy, and reliability of the workholding process. This is especially true when dealing with parts that require high precision, like gears. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the advantages of custom jaws, the engineering behind their design, and why these solutions are indispensable in applications like spur and helical gears.

We spoke with one of our lead engineers to discuss the thought process behind creating these specialized jaws for spur and helical gears, explaining why custom jaws are often the better choice for high-performance and accuracy.

 

Q: When designing custom jaws, why did you choose a floating pin design for spur gears?

Engineer: “Great question. With spur gears, there’s a lot of similarity in the shape, but no two gears are ever identical at the microscopic level, especially when you factor in tolerances. By using a two-pin design where each pin can ‘float’—meaning they’re not locked rigidly into place—we allow the jaws to self-adjust to each specific gear. This way, even minor variances in gear dimensions won’t affect clamping. Essentially, the floating pins hold the gear in place while allowing just enough movement to handle these slight differences. It’s a simple yet effective solution for ensuring the jaws consistently center each gear.”

Chuck with Special Jaws to hold Gear

Q: What limitations, if any, does the two-pin design have?

Engineer: “The floating-pin setup works best with spur gears since they’re straight-cut. These jaws only move back and forth in a single axis. If you were to use these jaws with helical gears, which have angled teeth, it would lead to slippage because the contact points aren’t aligned with the teeth angle. That’s where our helical gear design comes into play.”

Close up Jaws

Q: Let’s talk about the single-pin design for helical gears. Why the difference in approach?

Engineer: “Helical gears are more complex. Their angled teeth require precise positioning to avoid slippage. For gears   divisible by three, we use a single-pin design, but it’s part of a more sophisticated system. Each jaw has a cage structure   that fixes the position of the pin relative to the gear, which allows for a more secure hold. This is crucial because even a   few micrometers of misalignment with helical gears can result in slipping. With the fixed pin on the cage, we can ensure   each jaw aligns with the helical gear teeth’s orientation for a tight, secure hold.”

 

 

Special Cage for Helical Gears

 

Q: How does the gear cage work in relation to the jaws?

Engineer: “The gear cage, in a sense, decentralizes the pin positioning so that it doesn’t rely on the center of the jaws. This cage structure clamps the gear in place by surrounding it with a balanced and fixed hold, allowing the jaws to close tightly without forcing the gear to adapt. The result is a stable setup where the gear stays in position, especially during higher torque operations. This solution makes it possible to handle helical gears accurately, even when they’re more complex to grip.”Close up Cage

Q: What are the main advantages of opting for custom jaws over standard blank jaws?

Engineer: “Custom jaws are often a time-saver for operators who require immediate, accurate performance. With more than half of our jaw chucks equipped with custom jaws, we’ve seen how investing in tailored jaws pays off in production time and accuracy. We heat-treat and precision-grind each set to match the chuck, meaning there’s no additional work for the operator—no machining, no tweaking. They’re ready to perform out of the box, designed specifically for your part. This level of precision is hard to achieve with blank jaws that have to be machined onsite. Custom jaws also allow us to optimize the jaws’ design based on each application, which is particularly important for high-precision industries.”

 

Q: What does the design process look like for creating a custom set of jaws?

Engineer: “Every custom jaw design begins with a conversation about the part requirements. We evaluate the dimensions, the gear type, and the specific tolerances involved. From there, our engineers create a tailored solution that matches both the chuck and the gear, from floating pins for spur gears to specialized cages for helical designs. Each step is carefully planned, from heat treating to precision grinding, ensuring the jaws are perfectly adapted to their chuck and the gear they’ll be holding.”

 

For engineers and machinists dealing with complex applications, choosing the right jaws can make all the difference. As our expert highlights, each jaw set is more than just an accessory; it’s a purpose-built component that enhances the performance of your chuck and ensures precision clamping for high-value parts like gears.

 

Stay tuned for more insights into our workholding solutions, where we’ll continue to showcase the innovations that keep your shop running at peak performance.

How to Choose the Right Collet Chuck

The world of workholding offers nearly as many solutions as there are workpieces, and often, there is no straightforward answer to what the correct solution might be. If you’ve made it to this guide, congratulations on taking the crucial first step: deciding on the type of chuck you need.

Now that you’ve chosen a collet chuck, we’re here to help you find the right one. Thankfully, selecting the correct collet chuck is a relatively straightforward process. A detailed review of all the Chucks and their technical data would make this blog post rival the University Physics with Modern Physics 14th Edition in length but we will link all Collet Chucks for you to easily take a closer look.

 

Stationary

The first step in selecting a collet chuck is distinguishing between rotating and non-rotating (stationary) work.

For stationary work, such as milling or drilling, there are two primary options:

CB-NRB Chuck: This hydraulically actuated, self-contained pullback design is ideal for non-rotating applications. The collet is drawn into the tapered seat when actuated, with part stops mounted inside the chuck body.

CB-NRD Chuck: A hydraulically actuated dead length collet chuck for stationary use. The sleeve moves forward under hydraulic pressure to clamp the collet, keeping the part securely in place.

 

Selecting Chucks for Shaft Work

If your process requires rotating work, it gets a little trickier, but don`t worry we will go through the list together.

The next step is taking a closer look at the Workpiece Type. If what you do is Shaft work, we have 2 more options for you:

CB-AG Chuck: This pullback design features a floating collet seat for machining shafts between centers. The compact design offers greater rigidity, and the floating seat can be locked to clamp parts on-center.

WSF Chuck: Ideal for machining shafts between centers, this chuck allows for complete machining of the shaft’s OD while securely clamping the end.

 

Choosing Chucks for Bar Work

For bar work, the choice of chuck depends on the bar feed type:

If it’s a Servo Bar Feeder what you need is a Pull to Close Collet Chuck, the CB-NDR is the right choice for you:

CB-NDR Chuck: Designed for use with servo bar feeders, this patented dead length design prevents the bar from being pushed off the servo stop.

On the other hand, if you work with a Hydrostatic Bar Feed Type and the Feed length is not critical the Collet Chuck you need is the

CB-NB Chuck: For hydrostatic bar feeds where feed length isn’t critical, this chuck efficiently translates draw tube force into maximum clamping force.

 

For situations where feed length is critical:

CB-ND Chuck: Suitable for collet sizes 120mm and larger, the collet remains fixed in the Z-axis, avoiding any pullback effect on the bar stock.

CB-NX Chuck: This low-profile, dead length design features a reduced diameter nose for maximum tool clearance, ensuring no pullback effect during clamping.

 

Handling Chucking Work

For chucking work, if your setup includes a sub-spindle and requires a dead length chuck, consider:

CB-ND Chuck: Suitable for collet sizes 120mm and larger, the collet remains fixed in the Z-axis, avoiding any pullback effect on the bar stock.

CB-NX Chuck: This low-profile, dead length design features a reduced diameter nose for maximum tool clearance, ensuring no pullback effect during clamping.

Both chucks maintain the collet fixed in the Z-axis, preventing any pullback effect on the workpiece.

For main spindle applications, where dead length chucks are needed, the above chucks are also ideal.

However, if you require a pullback collet chuck, especially for vertical spindles, the CB-NK Chuck is your go-to. This flexible design allows easy conversion from bar to chucking applications with the capability to mount end stops inside the chuck body.

 

Congratulations on making it through this guide! Now that you’ve identified the right collet chuck, choosing the appropriate collet is the next step—but that’s a topic for another day. If you have further questions about any of the chucks, feel free to contact us anytime.

Precision Meets Innovation: Tackling Challenges with Diaphragm Chucks

Diaphragm chucks have become a cornerstone in industries that demand extreme precision, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical manufacturing. Their ability to maintain tight tolerances makes them invaluable for producing high-quality parts. However, when tasked with handling irregularly shaped parts, even these sophisticated tools face significant challenges. Recently, MicroCentric’s engineering team tackled such a problem, showcasing their ability to innovate and adapt their technology to meet specific customer needs.

The Challenge of Load Clearance

Diaphragm chucks differ from traditional jaw chucks in how they operate. Instead of jaws that move linearly to clamp a part, diaphragm chucks use a flexible metal diaphragm that bends to apply clamping force. This design is highly effective for precision clamping but comes with a limitation: the jaws can only open so far. For parts with regular shapes, this isn’t a problem. However, when the part is irregularly shaped, ensuring proper load clearance becomes a significant issue.

In this particular case, the parts had complex contours that required careful handling to prevent them from being damaged during loading and unloading. The limited jaw opening meant that the parts could easily interfere with the chuck, potentially causing misalignment or damage. To overcome this, MicroCentric’s engineers developed custom jaws tailored specifically to the unique shape of the parts. These custom jaws ensured that the parts could be loaded and clamped securely without risking damage or compromising the precision of the machining process.

Innovating Air Sensing for Diaphragm Chucks

Air sensing is a critical feature in precision machining. It helps detect the presence and correct positioning of a part within the chuck, providing an additional layer of security to ensure the machining process starts only when everything is perfectly aligned. In conventional jaw chucks, air sensing is typically routed through the jaws, which move linearly. This setup allows for straightforward integration of air sensing technology.

However, diaphragm chucks pose a different challenge. Because the jaws don’t move linearly but instead bend with the diaphragm, routing air sensing through the jaws isn’t feasible. MicroCentric’s engineers had to think outside the box to maintain this essential feature. Their solution was to route the air sensing through other components of the chuck, such as the part stop and the spider. This unconventional approach preserved the functionality of the air sensing system while accommodating the unique operation of the diaphragm chuck.

The challenge didn’t stop there. The chuck also required an integrated coolant system to manage the heat generated during machining. Typically, a standard quad air tube, which has an additional channel for coolant, could handle this. However, because this was a drawbar-actuated diaphragm chuck, the standard solution wasn’t suitable. The engineering team had to design a bespoke system that allowed both air and coolant to be routed through the chuck efficiently, ensuring optimal performance without compromising the chuck’s precision.

Custom Grippers for Irregular Shapes

Another major challenge was the clamping surface of the parts. The parts were not only irregularly shaped but also had very small clamping surfaces. Standard grippers, which are typically used in such applications, were not suitable for this task. The solution was to create custom grippers specifically designed to handle the unique shape and size of the parts.

Creating these custom grippers was a time-consuming process. The team had to design grippers that could securely hold the parts without causing damage or slippage during the machining process. This involved multiple iterations and testing to ensure that the final design met all the required specifications.

While the process of designing and manufacturing custom grippers added complexity and time to the project, it was a necessary step to ensure the parts were held securely and accurately during machining. This level of customization is a testament to MicroCentric’s commitment to providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of their customers.

Precision Manufacturing with Custom Fixtures

Once the custom jaws and grippers were designed, the next step was to manufacture them. Precision is critical in this phase, as any deviation from the specifications could compromise the chuck’s performance. To achieve the required level of precision, the team first created custom fixtures.

Fixtures are essential in manufacturing because they hold the parts in place during the machining process. In this case, the fixtures were used to hold the custom jaws and grippers, ensuring they were aligned and positioned correctly during production. This step was crucial to maintaining the high standards of accuracy and reliability that MicroCentric is known for.

The creation of these fixtures was a meticulous process. Each fixture had to be designed and built to exacting standards to ensure that the jaws and grippers were produced with the highest level of precision. This attention to detail is a hallmark of MicroCentric’s approach to manufacturing, where even the smallest components are crafted with care and precision.

Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead

The challenges faced in this project highlight the complexities of modern precision engineering. They also underscore the importance of innovation and adaptability in developing solutions that meet the unique needs of each customer. By addressing these challenges head-on, MicroCentric’s engineering team not only solved the immediate problem but also gained valuable insights that will inform future projects.

One of the key takeaways from this project is the importance of customization. Off-the-shelf solutions are not always suitable for complex or unique applications. By taking the time to understand the specific requirements of the project and developing tailored solutions, MicroCentric was able to deliver a chuck that met all the customer’s needs while maintaining the highest standards of precision and reliability.

Looking ahead, the lessons learned from this project will help MicroCentric continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in precision engineering. Whether it’s developing new solutions for air sensing, creating custom grippers, or designing bespoke fixtures, the company remains committed to innovation and excellence.

For manufacturers facing similar challenges, the experience of MicroCentric offers a clear message: with the right expertise and a willingness to innovate, even the most complex problems can be solved. By partnering with a company that understands the intricacies of precision engineering, customers can be confident that they’ll receive solutions that not only meet their needs but also set new standards for quality and performance.

In the world of precision machining, where every detail matters, MicroCentric’s commitment to innovation and excellence continues to set them apart. Whether tackling irregularly shaped parts or developing cutting-edge technology, the company remains at the forefront of the industry, delivering solutions that combine precision, reliability, and innovation.

Should I Use Oil or Grease for My Chuck?

When it comes to chuck maintenance in the world of workholding, one of the most common questions is whether to use oil or grease. Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer—it really depends on your specific application, environment, and operational preferences. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.

 

The Benefits of Using Oil

Oil is a go-to lubricant for many workholding applications because of its natural ability to flow into tight spaces between the moving components of a chuck. It seeps into areas that might otherwise go untreated, ensuring that all surfaces are properly lubricated. This is particularly advantageous in high-speed operations, where friction and heat build-up can cause wear and tear on sliding surfaces.

Advantages of Oil:

  • Penetration: Oil’s low viscosity allows it to flow easily into small crevices, ensuring coverage without requiring precise manual application.
  • Reduced Maintenance: Since oil automatically flows into tight spaces, there’s often less concern about missed areas, reducing the chance of parts wearing out prematurely.
  • Heat Resistance: Oil can handle high temperatures better than some greases, making it a good choice for high-speed operations where heat build-up is a concern.

However, oil has its downsides. One of the main issues with oil is that it tends to fling off the chuck when rotating at high speeds, especially in fast-turning applications like CNC machining. As a result, oil needs to be replenished frequently, increasing downtime for maintenance.

 

The Case for Grease

Grease, on the other hand, tends to stay put. It doesn’t fling off as easily during operation, meaning that it offers a longer-lasting solution. Once applied, grease clings to surfaces, providing consistent lubrication over extended periods. This reduces the frequency of reapplication, saving time and effort.

Advantages of Grease:

  • Longer Lifespan: Grease stays in place, offering better protection against wear in rotating applications, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
  • Adhesion: Grease sticks to surfaces, offering protection even in high-stress situations, such as heavy loads or extreme pressure.
  • Sealing Properties: Grease acts as a barrier to moisture and contaminants, which can help protect chuck components from corrosion or damage.

However, grease has its own set of challenges. Its sticky nature can cause it to attract debris such as chips and swarf. Over time, these particles can become embedded in the grease and cause wear or even damage to the chuck components. Regular cleaning and inspection become more critical when using grease to ensure these contaminants don’t build up.

 

The Convenience Factor: Oil vs. Grease

Choosing between oil and grease often comes down to a matter of convenience. Oil may require more frequent reapplication but is easier to apply and seeps into tight spaces. Grease, while long-lasting, demands a more hands-on approach to ensure it is applied where needed and isn’t trapping debris that could harm your chuck in the long run.

Ultimately, the decision boils down to your specific needs:

  • For high-speed applications: Oil is often the better choice due to its ability to withstand heat and penetrate small spaces.
  • For heavy-duty or long-lasting protection: Grease offers durability and resistance to wear but requires attention to ensure it stays free from contaminants.

 

The Auto-Lube Option: A Game-Changer for Chuck Maintenance

At MicroCentric, we understand that balancing the pros and cons of oil vs. grease can be time-consuming and sometimes tricky. That’s why we offer a solution to take the guesswork out of chuck lubrication: the Auto-Lube Option.

With Auto-Lube, your chuck’s lubrication system is managed automatically, applying the right amount of lubrication when and where it’s needed without manual intervention. This ensures consistent lubrication throughout the operation cycle, prolongs the life of your chuck, and frees your team from the hassle of regular maintenance.

Not only does Auto-Lube reduce downtime, but it also minimizes the risk of human error in lubrication application, ensuring your chuck is always optimally lubricated. Whether you’re dealing with the frequent reapplication needs of oil or the potential debris build-up with grease, the Auto-Lube system takes care of it all.

 

Conclusion: What’s Right for Your Application?

Both oil and grease have their places in chuck maintenance. If you prioritize ease of application and are working in high-speed environments, oil may be the way to go. If you need a longer-lasting solution and are willing to manage the potential for debris build-up, grease could be your best option.

Fortunately, with MicroCentric’s Auto-Lube Option, you don’t have to worry about choosing between oil or grease. You can let the system automatically handle lubrication for optimal performance and longevity. No matter what you choose, proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the long-term efficiency and reliability of your workholding systems.

Contact us to learn more about how the Auto-Lube Option can benefit your operations.

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MicroCentric’s Evolution: From Precision Gear Testers to Pioneering Chucks

Welcome to another chapter in our journey at MicroCentric. As we celebrate our anniversary, we’re excited to share the fascinating evolution of our company—from our humble beginnings with precision gear testers to becoming a leading name in high-precision Workholding solutions.

Alina catalog precision gear testerPrecision Measurement Alina Catalog

MicroCentric’s story began not with the chucks we’re known for today, but with a groundbreaking invention in precision measurement. Founded by Anton Fink, an Austrian mechanical engineer who relocated to Montreal and later to New York, the early days of MicroCentric were focused on refining measurement tools. Anton’s first patent, a precision gear tester, showcased his commitment to accuracy, even before he founded the company.

 

Before MicroCentric, Anton’s inventions, including his precision gear tester, were marketed through a company called Alina (see the old catalogs on the right).

Following this, he secured a second patent for a height gauge. These early innovations set the stage for what would become MicroCentric, originally known as Metrology Systems Corporation—a name that reflected our dedication to precision measurement.

 

 

Precision Height Gauge

Drawing from the Height Gauge Patent

The Shift to Workholding: Enter the Air Chuck

Our transition from measurement to workholding was driven by another innovative idea. In the 1970s, Air Chucks were common but faced frequent maintenance issues due to their complex design and inconsistent repeatability. Anton Fink, ever the innovator, sought to address these challenges. His redesign resulted in the MicroCentric High Precision Air Chuck—a product that would become a game changer in precision workholding.

Old Precision Air Chuck Catalog

With standard Total Indicator Readings (TIR) of 0.00005″ (0.0012mm) and, in some cases, an impressive 0.00002″ (0.0005mm), the MicroCentric Air Chuck set new standards for accuracy. This innovation not only cemented our reputation but also led to the establishment of two distinct departments within Metrology Systems Corp: one focused on measurement systems and the other on our pioneering Air Chucks. The evolution continued with the development of high-precision Hand Chucks, further reflecting our shift towards a new market.

 

The Name Change: Embracing the MicroCentric Identity

The name “MicroCentric” originated from our Air Chuck product line. As chucks became the core of our business, the name MicroCentric perfectly encapsulated our focus and expertise. Thus, Metrology Systems Corporation officially became MicroCentric—a name that signifies our unwavering commitment to high-precision workholding.

The Impact of CNC Technology in the 1970s

To truly appreciate our journey, it’s important to understand the broader context of the 1970s. This era marked the rise of the third industrial revolution, with the advent of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems. Before CNC, machining systems relied on Numerical Control (NC) using punch cards—a method that was cumbersome and prone to errors.

The introduction of CNC systems revolutionized machining by storing code directly within the machine, eliminating the need for punch cards and manual entry. This advancement brought unprecedented speed, precision, and efficiency to machining processes. However, even with these technological strides, the quality of workholding systems remained crucial. The greatest machines are only as effective as the chucks that hold their workpieces.

Old drawing

Reflecting on Progress and Precision

Looking back, the days when engineers manually drafted designs on large drawing tables highlight the remarkable progress we’ve made. Each drawing was a testament to human skill and precision, with every mistake potentially leading to hours of lost work. Today, we benefit from advanced tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, which streamline the design process and enhance accuracy.

As we reflect on our past, we appreciate the strides we’ve made and the innovative spirit that has guided us from precision measurement to high-precision workholding. Our journey is a reminder of how far we’ve come and the importance of continual innovation in the ever-evolving world of machining.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through MicroCentric’s history. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the milestones and innovations that have shaped our company. Here’s to many more years of precision and progress!

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History of Workholding

What do a French cannon, a wooden chair and a car have in common?

Don`t worry they are not walking into a bar. But if they were it probably would end with all of them ordering the same drink and swapping it around because what unites them is the concept of interchangeability.

Now before you start throwing chairs at castle walls during your next siege let me explain it a little further.
Whilst the products are not interchangeable with each other the parts each product is made of are.

Each of those products marks an important step during the industrialization to go from handmade single parts to mass produced interchangeable ones. This concept is also known as the interchangeable manufacture.

One of the first people to advertise for this was Lieutenant General Jean- Baptiste Vaquette de Gribeauval, a French artillery officer. His concept laid the groundwork for the de Vallière system, which was essential for the success of the Napoleonic Wars.

While he did not achieve true interchangeability, he did inspire others who would.

Jean- Baptistes idea of standardization spread not only all over Europe but also to America where in the early 19th century multiple engineers, including Captain John H. Hall, Simeon North and Eli Whitney, were tasked with finding a way to quickly produce weapons for the newly formed American army.

They eventually managed to achieve true interchangeability and mechanization- two essential parts of what became known as the American system of manufacturing.

Before we move on there is one more name that is noteworthy in this endeavor: Eli Terry Sr.
While he did not manufacture guns (he was a clockmaker) he is considered the first person in American history to accomplish interchangeable parts with no government funding.

But when do the chairs come into play?
The answer can be found in a small town in the Czech Republic, called “Koryčany”. Back in the day this city belonged to a region called “Moravia” and was a part of the Austrian- Hungarian Empire.
But neither a Moravian nor an Austrian or Hungarian would become famous here. It was in fact a German called Michael Thonet, who obviously loved to travel all over Europe.

The design of Thonets chairs is still around today. But it wasn’t just the look that made them the talk of the town at the Great London Exposition in 1851. It was how he made them. Thonet was the first person to ever successfully mass- produce furniture. But he didn`t stop there. Unlike every other piece of furniture Thonets chairs could be dismantled for transport and quickly and easily be assembled after. Kind of like a 19th century version of Ikea.

The key that made all this possible once again was the standardization and interchangeability of parts.

The fact that furniture was now mass-producible made it cheaper, which meant that larger portions of the population were able to decorate and re-decorate their homes with new furniture. Safe to say once mass production made its way to consumer goods it never left. The American system of manufacturing had officially arrived in Europe.

But there was one guy who took mass production even further: Henry Ford.

Henry Ford did a lot of great things in his life- he pioneered the five-day work week; he created the franchise system – but more than anything he believed in lowering production cost.

Ford saw the American system of manufacturing and took it one step further.

But how did he do it? By the time the Ford Motor Company was founded the concept of standardization and interchangeability was over 100 years old. Factories with different production lines were also common at this point. What is it that made Ford the true Master of Mass Production?

The answer is in his tools. It was always in the tools.

Back in 1816 Simeon North managed to get ahead of his competition after inventing milling machines.
Thonet invented a special machine to form and quickly bend wood into the furniture shape.

And Henry Ford? He created tools for every step of his production. Every single part of the production line had its own special purpose machine tool. From multi spindle drill presses to multiple head milling machines. Everything was planned out. Every step was truly standardized. Therefore, every piece was 100% interchangeable.

This made the price of the Ford T model drop from 825$ (26,870$ today) in the first year to 360$ (10,131$ today) only 8 years later. Which meant that nearly every American was able to afford a car and drive. For comparison the average cost of a car back then was 1000$ (28,141$ today). This means simply by using better and specialized tools Ford

was able to save over 10,000$ production cost per car.

Standardization and Interchangeability might have been the key ingredient to mass production, but it was the machine tools that made these two things possible.

The machine tools paved the way for tight tolerances and a high repeating accuracy, which allowed us to produce the same part over and over again.

To say Ford was right for believing and investing in these tools might be an understatement.

Investing in the right machine tools is an investment in the future of your company.

The big question that remains is: what are the right tools for your specific production line?
Today there are a thousand different tooling companies and machine manufacturers to choose from. This is a whole article in its own, but the short answer is:
The key to success lies in interchangeability. Therefore, look for a tool that offers you a high repeating accuracy (TIR).

In conclusion, it doesn’t matter what it is, you want to build the key to success always stays the same. No matter if it’s cannons, chairs, cars or something different like airplanes. The right tools will not only save you money but also time and help you achieve a better standard of quality.

Whatever challenges your specific use case might bring, with over 50 years of experience we at MicroCentric Corporation will be able to help you find the best solution for your problem.

No matter if it`s turning, milling, drilling, grinding or anything else– each MicroCentric product is backed by superior design and precision workmanship for reliable, long-term performance and unmatched accuracy.

Contact us today at 800.573.1139 – 516.349.7220   for more information or read more about different tooling solutions here: https://bit.ly/44cp4td

Precision Change Jaw System

In the realm of machining and manufacturing, every second counts. Efficiency isn’t just a desirable trait; it’s a necessity for staying competitive in today’s fast-paced industries. One area where efficiency can be significantly improved is in the process of changing jaws on chucks. Traditional methods involving dowel pins are time-consuming and often require meticulous adjustments. However, the advent of the Precision Change Jaw System has transformed this process, making it faster, easier, and more cost-effective. 

The traditional method of mounting top jaws onto a chuck involves the use of dowel pins, typically around five per jaw. These pins must be removed individually before the jaws can be changed. With three jaws per chuck, this adds up to a total of fifteen dowel pins per chuck. Not only is this process time-consuming, but it also introduces opportunities for error and requires careful attention to detail. 

Enter the Precision Change Jaw System, which replaces dowel pins with QC buttons per jaw, reducing the total number of screws to just six for the entire chuck (for a standard 3 jaw Chuck). This streamlined approach cuts the time required to change jaws by more than half, significantly improving workflow efficiency. 

One of the most significant advantages of Quick Change Jaws is their ability to maintain repeatability and tolerance after jaw changes. Unlike traditional dowel pin jaws, which often require sending back to the manufacturer for adjustments, Quick Change Jaws allow users to make changes themselves. This not only saves time but also gives operators greater control over their machining processes. 

Furthermore, Quick Change Jaws come in various heights and configurations, including pie jaws, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether it’s a standard chuck or a specialized chuck like a Diaphragm Chuck, Quick Change Jaws offer versatility without compromising on accuracy. 

In comparison, the drawbacks of dowel pin jaws become apparent. Not only is the process of changing them time-consuming, but it also compromises accuracy. When dowel pin jaws are changed, more than half of the accuracy can be lost. To regain this accuracy, the jaws often need to be finished on the chuck, which often times involves sending the whole chuck back to the manufacturer. This results in downtime and adds costs, as the chuck is not available for use during this time and therefore replacement Chucks need to be kept ready. 

The flexibility offered by the Precision Change Jaw System extends beyond time savings. Being able to change jaws quickly and easily means more flexibility in workflow. Moreover, using the same chuck body for multiple applications is now possible, saving both time and money. This adaptability is especially crucial in environments where rapid changes are the norm. 

One key feature of Quick Change Jaws is their patented design, ensuring reliability and performance. Unlike dowel pins, QC buttons eliminate play, as they are tapered into the chuck, providing a secure and stable grip on the workpiece. 

The ease of use and ergonomic benefits of Quick Change Jaws cannot be overstated. With just two screws to tighten to the recommended torque, changing jaws becomes a straightforward task, reducing strain on operators and improving overall efficiency. 

In conclusion, the Precision Change Jaw System represents a significant advancement in chuck technology, revolutionizing the way jaws are changed in machining and manufacturing. With its time-saving benefits, improved repeatability, and versatility, Quick Change Jaws are a must-have for any modern workshop looking to stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape. 

Want to know how your shop could benefit from the QC System? Get in touch with our Sales Department and request a quote today!