Presetting Endmills to Retain Balance
by blueswarf in Workshop > CNC
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Presetting Endmills to Retain Balance
This technique will produce repeatable tool stack-ups when replacing worn endmills. It will retain its original balance and offset along with its dynamic properties.
Additional Reading, CLICK HERE
Balance and Tap-Test Assembly
Measure Stickout
Record this dimension in the DC software when tap-testing the tool.
Put Setting Ring on Endmill
They are made of aluminum and will not harm the cutting edges. The setting rings can be purchased HERE.
You May Have to Adjust Clamping Pressure
Align Slot With Tooth Edge
Rotate stop until the slot is aligned with the point of one tooth. Similar to sighting a rifle.
Set the Stop Gage
The Stop Gage can be purchased HERE
Make a Witness Mark
Use a Dremel engraver or die grinder to mark the location of the slot.
Remove the Ring
Set the Next Endmill
Using the Setting Gage and align the slot with a tooth point. You can preset multiple endmills at a time if you wish and have them ready for reloading.
NOTE: If you are setting variable pitch tools, you will need to make sure you are setting to same tooth and orientation to the Weldon flat.
Replace Endmill
- Insert new endmill
- Rotate the stop until the slot aligns with the witness mark.
- Tighten toolholder
- Remove stop
This will work with shrink fit and other toolholder systems. For Rego-Fix PG, we recommend using their length setting gage and aligning one of the slots on the collet to the tooth tip and the witness mark.