For Machines Mfg. Since 3/11 | O P E R A T I O N |
Four-Way Tool Post
The
Each tool can be quickly indexed to the workpiece by loosening the top handle, rotating the tool post to the desired position, then
Installing Tool |
|
Tool Needed | Qty |
Tool Post | .............................................. 1 |
To install a tool in the tool post:
1.Adjust the tool post bolts so that the cutting tool can fit underneath them (see Figure 60).
Tool Post
Bolt
Cutting
Tool
Figure 60. Example of tool mounted in tool post.
Over-extending a cutting tool from the post will increase the risk of tool chatter, breakage, or tool loosening during operation, which could cause metal pieces to be thrown at the operator or bystanders with great force. DO NOT extend a cutting tool more than 2.5 times the width of its cross-section or less (e.g, 2.5
x0.5" = 1.25").
2.Firmly secure the cutting tool with at least two tool post bolts.
3.Check and adjust the cutting tool to the spindle centerline, as instructed in the next subsection.
Aligning Cutting Tool with Spindle Centerline
For most operations, the cutting tool tip should be aligned with the spindle centerline, as illustrated in Figure 61.
Cutting | Spindle |
Tool | Center |
| Line |
Figure 61. Cutting tool aligned with spindle centerline
(viewed from tailstock).
There are a number of ways to check and align the cutting tool to the spindle centerline. If necessary, you can raise the cutting tool by placing steel shims underneath it. The shims should be as long and as wide as the cutting tool to properly support it.
Below are two common methods:
•Align the tip of the cutting tool with a center installed in the tailstock, as instructed on the next page. For this to work, the tailstock must be aligned to the spindle centerline (refer to Aligning Tailstock To Spindle Centerline on Page 45 for detailed instructions).
•Make a facing cut on a piece of round bar stock. If the tool is above or below the spindle centerline, a nub will be left in the center of the workpiece. Adjust the height of the tool, then repeat the facing cut to check the adjustment. Repeat as necessary until the center of the workpiece face is smooth.
