CNC Machining Center Tool Magazine: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding the CNC machining center tool magazine is crucial for anyone in the manufacturing industry. This guide dives deep into its various types, functionalities, and troubleshooting methods.

Introduction

The CNC machining center tool magazine is an indispensable component of CNC machining centers. It’s a device specifically designed to hold and manage tools, enabling automated tool changes controlled by a program.

Types of CNC Machining Center Tool Magazines

1. Umbrella-type Tool Magazine

• Description: Resembling an umbrella, this is the foundational tool magazine for CNC machining centers.
• Features: Most affordable with the smallest maximum capacity. However, it boasts a low failure rate.

2. Synchronous Tool Magazine

• Description: A modern tool magazine variant, ideal for high-speed machining centers.
• Features: Extremely fast tool change speed, taking less than a second. However, it’s limited to direct-coupled spindles.

3. Robotic Arm Tool Magazine

• Description: Also known as the arm-type or disc-type tool magazine, it’s a common choice for many CNC machining centers.
• Features: Faster tool change than the umbrella type and suitable for batch processing.

4. Arm Clamp Tool Magazine

• Description: A traditional choice for drilling and tapping centers.
• Features: Average tool change speed but has been a standard for many domestic drilling and tapping centers.

5. Flying Saucer Tool Magazine

• Description: Exclusive to drilling and tapping centers.
• Features: Holds up to 21 tools with a tool change speed of 1 to 2 seconds.

Troubleshooting the CNC Machining Center Tool Magazine

Messy Tools Solution:

1. Manually reset the tool magazine.
2. Initialize the tool magazine counter to 23 via the system PMC parameter screen.
3. Return the actual tool to the magazine using the system MDI mode.

Misplaced Tools Solution:

1. Remove all tools and re-sort using the M70 command in MDI.
2. Adjust the D127 setting to match the current tool holder position.