A Recommendation for Overcoming Modern Milling Challenges

Titanium, Inconel, stainless steel and other similar materials are becoming increasingly popular for their combination of temperature resistance and strength – but this also happens to make them among the most difficult metals to machine. Add to that the complex geometries of modern end mills, shrinking parts and features, and the importance of being able to hold small tools with heavy, evenly distributed force is paramount.

Our engineers have been working hard to offer our class-leading Hi-Power Milling Chuck (HMC) in a super-slim design with a smaller clamping diameter. With the latest addition to the HMC series, the HMCJ, we’ve succeeded. First introduced at IMTS, the new chuck with peripheral coolant supply up to 70 bar is designed to support heavy-duty and finish end milling tasks directly clamping cutters as small as Ø1/2″ or Ø12mm.

The nut diameter has been slimmed down to an impressive 1.260″ (32mm), now the smallest in its class, while maintaining an uncompromising and substantial cross section of .394″ (10mm) to prevent chatter and deliver cutting security.

The HMCJ applies the highest gripping force to the cutting tool shank of any comparable milling chuck in its class, and five to six times greater compared to collet chucks. Thanks to a clamping bore with fine slots surrounded by hundreds of needle bearings, our HMC and HMCJ chucks go even further to ensure concentric, precise, and smooth clamping when the nut is tightened.

Despite being designed for heavy cutting, the HMCJ milling chuck can maintain a runout accuracy of ten microns at 4xD, giving it additional flexibility for use on finishing applications. For additional rigidity and accuracy, the CAT and BT interfaces are BIG-PLUS® as standard, however, a BIG-PLUS® spindle is not necessary to achieve the excellent performance of this chuck. A Ø32mm straight shank design is also available.

It is also possible to use smaller diameter milling tools using PJC Reduction Collets. The Ø.500″ HMCJ can then accept Ø3/8″ and Ø1/4″ shanks, and the Ø12mm HMCJ can accept Ø10mm, Ø8mm and Ø6mm shanks.

Learn more about HMC Milling Chucks and the new HMCJ here.