To Next PageTo Next Page
Need help?Do you have a question about the Haas DT-1 and is the answer not in the manual?
Diagram illustrating the core components of the spindle tool clamp system, including drawbar cam, rocker arm, and air cylinder.
Procedure for removing the C-clip and clevis pin from the air cylinder to access the rocker arm assembly.
Guidance on correctly installing the two-part pivot block onto the rocker arm shaft with attention to orientation.
Steps for removing the air cylinder from the assembly and installing a new one, including adjustment.
Instructions for accessing the drawbar cam by removing the spindle motor fan and unfastening the cam.
Procedure to measure tool push-out using a split tool and indicator, aiming for a 0.030" value.
Steps for adjusting tool push-out controlled by the drawbar cam during automatic tool changes.
Using feeler gauges to check and adjust the gap between rocker arm cam followers and the release guide.
Diagram illustrating the core components of the spindle tool clamp system, including drawbar cam, rocker arm, and air cylinder.
Procedure for removing the C-clip and clevis pin from the air cylinder to access the rocker arm assembly.
Guidance on correctly installing the two-part pivot block onto the rocker arm shaft with attention to orientation.
Steps for removing the air cylinder from the assembly and installing a new one, including adjustment.
Instructions for accessing the drawbar cam by removing the spindle motor fan and unfastening the cam.
Procedure to measure tool push-out using a split tool and indicator, aiming for a 0.030" value.
Steps for adjusting tool push-out controlled by the drawbar cam during automatic tool changes.
Using feeler gauges to check and adjust the gap between rocker arm cam followers and the release guide.
The Haas DT-1 Spindle Tool Clamp System is a critical component for tool changing operations on the DT-1 machine, managing the clamping and unclamping of tools in the spindle. Unlike systems that use a Tool Release Piston (TRP), the DT-1 system relies on a combination of a cam and an air cylinder acting on a rocker arm to control drawbar action. This integrated system ensures precise and reliable tool changes, whether initiated automatically during a machining cycle or manually for tool loading.
The core function of the DT-1 Spindle Tool Clamp System is to facilitate the secure clamping and release of tools in the spindle. This is achieved through the coordinated action of three main assemblies: the drawbar cam, the rocker arm assembly, and the air cylinder.
During automatic tool changes, the drawbar cam, located within the toolchanger cambox, is the primary driver of the clamping/unclamping action. As the cam rotates, its profile interacts with the cam follower on the rocker arm. This interaction translates the rotational motion of the cam into linear movement of the rocker arm, which in turn actuates the drawbar to either clamp or unclamp the tool. The drawbar cam bearing supports the cam's rotation, ensuring smooth and consistent operation.
For manual tool loading or release, the air cylinder takes over the clamping/unclamping function. The air cylinder is connected to the manual release arm via a clevis pin, allowing it to directly actuate the rocker arm. When air pressure is applied, the cylinder extends or retracts, moving the rocker arm and thereby controlling the drawbar. This provides a convenient and controlled method for operators to load or unload tools without relying on the automatic tool changer cycle.
The rocker arm assembly is the central linkage in this system. It receives input from both the drawbar cam (via the cam follower) and the air cylinder (via the manual release arm). The rocker arm pivots on a two-part pivot block, which is secured to the spindle head casting. A tension spring is connected to the rocker arm, providing a return force and ensuring consistent engagement with the cam follower. The rocker arm's movement directly controls the drawbar, which is responsible for physically gripping or releasing the tool holder. The release guide helps to ensure proper alignment and movement of the rocker arm.
The DT-1 Spindle Tool Clamp System is designed for seamless integration into the DT-1 machine's tool changing process. Its dual control mechanism (cam for automatic changes, air cylinder for manual operations) offers flexibility and reliability.
During automatic tool changes, the system operates in conjunction with the machine's Z-axis and tool changer carousel. The Z-axis jogs to the appropriate position, and the spindle orients itself for the tool change. The drawbar cam then engages, releasing the current tool and allowing the carousel to present the new tool. Once the new tool is in place, the cam re-engages to clamp it securely. This automated process minimizes operator intervention and maximizes machining efficiency.
For manual tool operations, the air cylinder provides a direct and controlled method of tool release. This is particularly useful for initial tool setup, inspection, or when troubleshooting. The manual release arm, connected to the air cylinder, allows for a clear indication of the drawbar's state.
The system incorporates several adjustment points to ensure optimal performance. The push-out adjustment, for instance, is crucial for ensuring that tools are reliably ejected from the spindle taper. This can be performed manually using a split tool, probe indicator, and feeler gauges, or automatically by observing the tool changer axis movement. The adjustment involves modifying the air cylinder clevis position or adding/removing shims in the rocker arm assembly. Proper push-out prevents tools from sticking in the spindle and ensures smooth tool changes.
Another important adjustment is the rocker arm/release guide gap. This gap, measured between the rocker arm cam followers and the release guide, ensures proper clearance and prevents interference during operation. Adjusting the rocker arm retract bolt allows for precise control of this gap, contributing to the longevity and reliability of the system.
The DT-1 Spindle Tool Clamp System is designed with maintainability in mind, allowing for component replacement and adjustment to ensure continued optimal performance. Access to the system's components typically requires the removal of the spindle head cover panels, and potentially parts of the tool changer carousel cover and chip shield.
Replacement procedures are outlined for each major component: the rocker arm assembly, the air cylinder, and the drawbar cam.
For the rocker arm assembly, removal involves disconnecting the tension spring, removing fasteners from the pivot blocks, and carefully working the assembly out of the spindle head casting. Installation is the reverse, with specific attention to assembling the two-part pivot block and ensuring proper alignment. The right-hand pivot block has a specific top and bottom, which must be observed during installation.
Air cylinder replacement involves removing the clevis pin and retainer blocks. Installation is the reverse, followed by necessary adjustments to ensure correct push-out.
The drawbar cam replacement requires jogging the Z-axis to align the spindle motor fan with the cam, then removing the fan for access. Screws holding the cam are removed, and jacking bolts can be used to ease its removal. Installation involves lightly greasing the cam shaft, aligning a locator pin with a locator hole in the cam, and securing it with screws torqued to a specified value.
Regular lubrication of the cam shaft is recommended to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear. The tension spring, clevis pin, and C-clip are also easily accessible for inspection and replacement if needed.
The adjustment procedures are a key aspect of maintenance, allowing technicians to fine-tune the system's performance. The manual and automatic push-out adjustments ensure consistent tool ejection, while the rocker arm/release guide gap adjustment prevents mechanical interference. These adjustments are critical for preventing dropped tools, spindle damage, and ensuring the overall reliability of the tool changing process.
Testing procedures, starting at low rapids and gradually increasing to 100%, are recommended after any maintenance or adjustment to verify that tool changes complete successfully and smoothly. This systematic approach to testing helps to confirm the system's integrity and readiness for production.
General| Spindle Speed | 15, 000 RPM |
|---|---|
| Table Size | 30 in x 16 in |
| Control | Haas CNC |
| Travels X Axis | 20 in |
| Travels Y Axis | 16 in |
| Rapid Traverse X Axis | 1, 575 ipm |
| Rapid Traverse Y Axis | 1, 575 ipm |
| Rapid Traverse Z Axis | 1, 575 ipm |
| Max Weight on Table | 500 lbs |
| Spindle Taper | BT-40 |
