Weldon holder
The Weldon holder is a traditional, mechanical, and extremely sturdy tool holder that is widely used, especially for securing end mills, indexable drills, and insert drills. Weldon clamping is known for its reliability and simplicity: the tool stays firmly in place even during heavy roughing operations and in demanding conditions.
Operating Principle of the Weldon Holder
The Weldon holder secures the tool with a side screw, which presses against the Weldon flat on the tool shank, clamping it to the inside of the holder. This mechanical connection prevents the tool from pulling out or slipping under load, making the Weldon holder an excellent choice for applications requiring maximum torque transfer and holding force.
In addition to the basic model, there are also Weldon holders with coolant channels, allowing cutting fluid to be directed straight to the tool when the tool itself does not have internal cooling. This improves chip removal and extends tool life, especially in deep drilling and roughing applications.
Applications and Features of the Weldon Holder
The Weldon holder is particularly popular for heavy machining and as a holder solution for large indexable and insert drills. Its simple design, mechanical reliability, and low cost continue to make it a common choice in many machining centers and drilling machines.
Advantages:
- Extremely solid and secure clamping
- Good torque transmission and holding power
- Easy and quick to use
- Excellent for roughing and drilling
- Affordable and maintenance-free design
Considerations:
- The Weldon chuck is not the most precise holder, as side screw clamping does not fully center the tool precisely on the holder’s central axis.
- The structure is not optimally balanced, so Weldon holders are not recommended for high rotational speeds or high-speed machining.
- Do not overtighten the clamping screws—it is essential to use a torque wrench and tighten according to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
Usage and Maintenance
- Before attaching the tool, make sure the tool shank and clamping surface of the holder are clean and free of damage. Position the Weldon flat of the tool precisely under the chuck's screw, and tighten the screw by hand or with a torque wrench to the correct torque.
- Regular maintenance ensures the holder’s long lifespan. Clean the clamping surface and the screw after use, remove any dirt and chips, and protect the holder with a light oil layer to prevent corrosion.
Summary
The Weldon holder is a mechanical, side-screw tightened tool holder that excels in roughing, coarse milling, and drilling. It offers excellent rigidity and holding power but does not match the accuracy of hydraulic or shrink fit holders. It is not recommended for high-speed machining due to its limited balance. Nevertheless, Weldon holders are user-friendly, durable, and require minimal maintenance. Versions with coolant channels are also available, directing coolant directly to the tool.
