Tool coolant application and direction assembly

Abstract

A coolant assembly for supplying coolant fluid to a tool includes an outer ring defining an inlet and an insert pressed within the outer ring including an annular channel. The annular channel is in communication with the inlet defined by the outer ring and includes a plurality of passages disposed to direct fluid along an axis of a tool. At least two of the passages are disposed at different angles relative to the axis of the tool to direct coolant along the entire length of the tool in order to provide a uniform and consistent stream of coolant and uniform and consistent temperature of the tool.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 197,390 filed on Jul. 17, 2002.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to an assembly for directing coolant flow onto a machine tool, and specifically to an assembly for directing coolant flow onto a tool at different locations along the rotational axis. [0002] Typically, in a conventional machining process a stream of coolant is directed onto the cutting tool to maintain a constant temperature. Without coolant flow, friction from the tool and the workpiece generate heat of a degree sufficient to damage the tool. Further, not only would the tool be damaged, but also the quality of the machines surface of the work piece is degraded. For these reasons it is desirable direct a stream of coolant onto a tool during machining operations. Machining produces metal chips that are preferably evacuated from the machining area in order to prevent damage to the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] The insert also includes at least one coolant hole communicating coolant fluid to an interface between the rotating tool and an inner diameter of the insert. The coolant hole creates a fluid bearing between the tool and the inner diameter of the insert that retards frictional build-up of heat. The inner diameter of the insert slides over the rotating tool and is held in place on the tool by a semi-flexible coolant line. The collar simply slides over the rotating tool providing for quick tooling changeovers.

[0011] Accordingly, embodiments of this invention provide easy mounting to existing tooling and machinery while directs coolant along the entire length of a tool without complex piping and valving and does not interfere with the work piece tool interface during machining.

Problems solved by technology

Without coolant flow, friction from the tool and the workpiece generate heat of a degree sufficient to damage the tool.

Further, not only would the tool be damaged, but also the quality of the machines surface of the work piece is degraded.

Often during the machining, the work piece or chips bump and contact the coolant lines changing the position of the hose such that the coolant is no longer directed as originally positioned onto the tool.

In addition, hoses are often not positionable for providing coolant as desired when machining of relatively deep openings or holes.

Further, in some part configurations an adjustable coolant hose is simply not feasible and does not supply and direct coolant flow adequately to the tool.

Such systems require expensive and complicated fluid routing mechanisms in order to route coolant fluid substantially near the axis of rotation of the tool.

Further, such systems are not easily adaptable to tool changes.

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