Z axis tool setter
e Z Finder simply makes tool setting on mills and lathes quick and accurate.
e Z Finder extends the reference surface of the work holder to the side allowing the tool to be quickly positioned without collision. Each end of the finder is on the same plane but opposite sides.
In setting the tools it takes time to creep up to the cutter, touch the work without crunching the tool, and find the point where the feeler (paper, cellophane, or gauge) just touches. If it is important there is the offset of the feeler to take into account. Dial type setters have large offsets, do not rest on small parts easily, can get out of adjustment, and are costly.
e Z Finder has two coplanar surfaces that extend the reference surface plane out past its edge. The reference plane could be the work top, the vise bottom, step jaws, parallels the work sets on, or just about anywhere you choose.
Setting tools with powered movements such as CNC machines require careful movement near reference surfaces. e Z Finder allows quick positioning by extending the tool past the reference point. This tips the finder indicating its position. Backing up the tool until the finder lies flush on the reference surface sets it on Z zero, not some offset amount. For precise positioning the finder can be moved under the tool to "feel" the contact.
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Photo 1 shows e Z Finder in the tipped position with the cutter going down, past the plane. Bringing the tool in contact and down past the plane will tip e Z Finder letting you know you have passed it. Reversing the direction until e Z Finder sets back down on the reference surface completes the setting if close is good enough.
Photo 2 is viewed from above showing swing action to "feel" the contact with the cutter. For accurate settings, slide e Z Finder under the cutting tool to "feel" the contact thus putting it exactly on plane as needed. It's like having a zero thickness feeler gauge. Contact pressure is 0-7 grams depending on where you balance e Z Finder on the edge. Finger pressure is the only added pressure in the process. This allows finding the reference point for delicate cutters, like engraving tools, without damage.
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A tool setter cannot account for tool deflection under load, bearing load, fixture deflection or anything else that causes the cut to be different that its setting. The bottom line is you must make a test cut with any kind of setter to know the end result is within your requirements.
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e Z Finder is simple, small, 1/2 wide X 2" long, made of A2 tool steel for long wear life. No moving parts to adjust. Made with lab standard accuracy. The two surface coplanarity is within + - 0.00005".
e Z Finder works quickly with no chance of crashing the cutter. It works to set manual machines and motor driven CNC machines.
Aids to prevent tool to fixture collision.
Sets tools on reference plane with zero offset.
Magnetic spot (optional, Not yet offered) holds it to vertical surfaces.
Precision ground to allow positioning better than 0.001".
Made from A2 tool steel for long wear life.
e Z Finder is patent pending.
Once you use it you won't use the old methods again.
Made and sold by Electronic Resources
Contact David or phone (405) 440-1795 Your questions are welcome.
NOTE: The magnet version is not yet available. The product is finished with black oxide. Photo's were made unfinished for clairity.