Another tool post holder

[deere_x475guy]

Hi gang, I made this a few weeks ago to get a fell for how the new mill and dro were going to do. I normally don't bother bluing however there have been times on a more complicated part I should have.

Any way here are some pics I took during the build. I know these are cheap to buy but I enjoy making them and wanted to see how the accuracy and repeatablity of the DRO worked.

First step was to square the block of CRS up:

Next I cut the tool holder slot 5/8ths using a 4 flute 1/2" end mill. I have an AXA set but I cut all my own holders to 5/8ths:

Next I laid on my bluing and scribed where I wanted the cuts and holes:

After cutting away most of the metal for the dovetail with a 3/4" roughing end mill I was ready to cut the dovetails in:

Testing for fit, was spot on the first time:

The set screw holes are now drilled and taped:

Almost done:

Here it is in the tool holder ready for a tool:

I like to have enough of these so that I can keep all my tooling set to the correct height and same z depth on all. By having the same z depth I don't have to re-zero everytime I change a tool. I can always come within .002 and that is close enough for most of what I do. And if I have to adjust to get close I use an incremental setting. Thus keeping my absolute the same all the time.

 

[Tin Falcon]

Nice exercise for the new mill
Tin

 

[BobWarfield]

Dang Bob, I see posts from you all over. You're having too much fun this weekend!

Best,

BW

 

[deere_x475guy]

Bob I am finally recovered enough from my surgery that I can get back to the shop. I still can't work for hours on end yet like I use to but it's coming. In the mean time I have been able to catch up on my shop organizing needs and kick out some small projects. It really feels awesome to get back into the swing of things and contritute to the board.