Arbour

Arbour Details

Arbor is a tool or machine component used to hold cutting tools, workpieces, or other devices in place while being rotated by a machine, such as a milling machine, lathe, or drill press. Arbors are essential in various machining processes, acting as the interface between the machine's spindle and the cutting tool or workpiece. They come in different forms, depending on their specific use, such as mounting saw blades, milling cutters, or drill bits. Arbors ensure the accurate transmission of torque and rotation, allowing for precise machining and reliable operation.

Key Components

Shank: The shank is the part of the arbor that fits into the spindle of the machine. It can come in different types and sizes, including tapered or straight, depending on the machine it is used with.

Body: The main body of the arbor provides support and stability for the cutting tool or workpiece. It can vary in length and diameter depending on the application and the size of the cutting tool.

Keyways or Slots: Many arbors feature keyways or slots to help align and lock the cutting tool or workpiece in place. This ensures that the tool or workpiece doesn't slip during the machining operation.

End Nut or Washer: The end of the arbor is often secured by a nut, washer, or flange. This component keeps the cutting tool or workpiece securely in place on the arbor during machining.

Sleeves or Spacers: For some arbors, spacers or sleeves are used to adjust the position of the tool or to accommodate different tool widths, especially in milling or sawing operations.

Advantages

Milling Operations: In milling machines, arbors are used to hold milling cutters, such as end mills, face mills, or side and face cutters. The arbor ensures the cutter is mounted securely and maintains proper alignment during high-speed rotation, ensuring precise cutting.

Sawing Operations: In sawing machines, arbors hold circular saw blades, allowing for accurate cutting of metal, wood, or other materials. Arbors maintain the blade's stability during cutting, ensuring that the cuts are straight and smooth.

Drilling Operations: Arbors are used in drill presses and CNC machines to hold large or specialized drills, allowing for deep or precise holes to be drilled into materials like metal or wood.

Turning Operations: On lathes, arbors hold workpieces or tooling in place, ensuring they remain stable during the turning process. This is crucial for machining symmetrical components and maintaining tight tolerances.

Boring Operations: Arbors are used to hold boring bars or heads, ensuring that the tool remains stable while enlarging holes in materials like metal or wood. The arbor keeps the tool aligned with the axis of the hole for precise boring.