KM Quick-Change system gains ISO recognition

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team Nov 27, 2008

Kennametal has announced that its KM Quick-Change system has been recognised by the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) as a new ISO standard - ISO 26622.

Quick-change tooling consists of two basic components: the clamping unit and the cutting head.

The clamping unit mounts to the machine tool and is the receptacle for the interchangeable cutting unit.

When a tool change is necessary, an operator releases the locking system, replaces the cutting unit, and locks it into position.

This reduces machine downtime to a matter of seconds.

The new ISO 26622: 2008 is divided into two parts.

ISO 26622-1 specifies the dimensions and designations of tapered shanks and ISO 26622-2 does the same for tapered receivers.

The rigidity and stiffness of the KM joint is achieved through a combination of design elements incorporated in both the shank of the tool and the clamping mechanism.

The KM joint was developed as a system to obtain maximum benefit from the space utilised.

Moreover, the taper and face contact feature of the KM system provides a radial and axial repeatability of +/- 0.0001in (+/- 2.5 micron) for a specific cutting unit in a specific clamping unit.

KM Quick-Change systems can be used on multi-tasking, turning, rotating, and transfer machines in manual, semiautomatic, or fully automatic mode.

Fully automatic quick-change systems take advantage of a machine tool's tool storage and tool-handling capabilities and have a locking mechanism activated by a signal from the machine's control.

Combined with other automation systems, such as part loading and unloading and tool management software, automatic quick-change systems can dramatically improve machine utilisation levels.

Users can convert machines to KM Quick-Change by replacing the conventional tooling with square shank, round-shank, VDI, or builder-specific tool blocks utilising KM clamping units.

The KM Quick-Change system reduces machine downtime by reducing setup time, insert-changing time, and improves the overall quality of the manufacturing process.