Not all tool holders offer the same quality, as shown in the photograph below. In fact, quality counts! The tool holder on the left is a GDP heat-shrink model made in Germany, adhering to the highest standards and ISO Norm. Vacuum-hardened to 54 HRC, it resists corrosion and has increased tensile strength, with a slender, aerodynamic design.
The holder on the right, from another manufacturer, is made in Southeast Asia. Its bulky shaft design and 8mm larger diameter, adds unnecessary weight. This extra weight can strain the CNC’s spindle bearings and can lead to costly repairs or replacements.
HSK heat-shrink tool holders excel at extending tool life and improving surface finish. However, they often come with a higher cost due to the required heat induction unit for tool changes. For replaceable insert cutting tools or diamond tooling, heat-shrink holders are an excellent choice.
HSK heat-shrink tool holders feature a standard length of A=75mm, measured from the holder’s shoulder to the bottom. They also come in a longer reach length of A=108mm, ideal for 5-axis machining. Custom lengths are available, and both HSK-E and HSK-A versions are offered. A minuscule price difference can make a big performance difference when quality matters!