Abstract
High Speed Milling is demanding more and more accuracy of the tool rotation axis and overall tool holder performances. In this paper the design and performance assessment of a thermal shrink fit tool holder is described. The holder is monolithic to improve the stiffness and reduce the tool rotation axis error. The tool is assembled manually, introducing the tool in the pre-heated tool holder; the subsequent thermal shrinkage assures the transmission of the cutting force and torque by friction. The disassembly is critical as the heat flow causes the thermal expansion of both the tool and the tool holder. This retention mechanism needs an accurate study for the choice of the tool holder material and geometry, of the heather geometry and power and of the heating procedure. A mathematical model of the system, based on coupled thermal-stress finite elements, has been set up in order to optimize the design and, consequently, to improve the tool holder expected performances. The tool holder has been manufactured and experimental test has been executed to validate the model and assess the tool holder performances.
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