Automatic Tool Changer

The full form of ATC is automatic tool changer it is used in CNC machines for changing tool automatically which helps to reduce the cycle time. If we think that tool will be changed manually then it will take more time and it is harmful to operator so in modern technology automatic tool changer is used the tools are fitted in the tool magazine as per the required operation the tool which change the tool from tool magazine and change it automatically so tool changing time will be reduced.

Mainly there are two types of ATC are:-

1) Drum Type

2) Chain Type

Drum Type:-

For holding small number of tools usually not more than 30, it is stored on the periphery of drum and tool search speed is faster in this type of ATC.

Chain Type:-

For more number of tools (40 or more), tools search speed will be less in this type of ATC. 

Advantages of ATC:-

1) Lines changed in seconds instead of hours

2) Increase operator safety by changing tool automatically

3) Changes the tool in seconds of time 

4) Increase flexibility

Figure of Automatic Tool Changer is shown below:-