Hydraulic Chucks, Reduction Sleeves Reduce Toolholding Complications

Manufacturers must overcome specific machining challenges cost effectively. With this goal in mind, Seco Tools offers its comprehensive range of hydraulic chucks and accompanying reduction sleeves in three versions, each able to accommodate several tool shank size variations for reduced tooling inventory. With 360° tool-shank holding strength and precise centering, the equipment ensures reliability, along with exceptional machining performance and maximized tool life.

For simple, easy-to-use, versatile toolholding, the three versions of Seco hydraulic chucks include the HC Conventional, HCR Reinforced and the HCS Slim. The HC Conventional version is reported to deliver precision holding for drilling, reaming and light milling. As a universal solution, the HCR Reinforced version provides effective holding for all applications from HSM to HPM and for a variety of tool shank types like Cylindrical, Weldon and Whistle Notch. The HCS Slim holder version, which is most suited for mold and die, is ideal for accessing deep, narrow part cavities during five-axis machining at high speeds. Similarly, the cylindrical extensions, which can be assembled in an HC or HCR chuck, have potential for reaching tight areas, which mold building is prone to.  

For added flexibility to accommodate a wide range of cutting tool sizes, 05FHC slotted reduction sleeves for the hydraulic chucks enable one holder to handle various shank diameters, according to Seco Tools. They provide through-tool or peripheral cooling capabilities and work with either metric or inch-size tools.

According to Yves Heitz, Seco product manager, at high spindle speeds, controlling toolholder runout is imperative. When machining at speeds up to 25,000 rpm for example, Seco hydraulic chucks and expansion sleeves minimize runout and the vibration it causes. Moreover, precise clamping — lower than 3 µm — is said to ensure nice finishes for high-speed applications like those found in mold and die applications.

To keep vibration under control, Seco’s chucks incorporate internal reservoirs in which oil generates strong 360° tool clamping forces and acts as a natural vibration dampening system. Additionally, reduction sleeves compress uniformly and completely around tool shanks for precise centering and holding strength.

The slotted reduction sleeves come in sealed and peripherical coolant versions, and the hydraulic chucks support all Seco round tools. The holders are compatible with all common machine tool spindle interfaces, including HSK, DIN, BT, BT Taper/face and CAT.