General Questions
What is a tool holder cone and why is its quality so important?
The tool holder cone is a crucial component that connects the tool to the machine's spindle. Although it's often overlooked, its quality directly impacts the entire work process. A high-quality cone ensures precision and stability, which in turn reduces vibrations, improves the quality of the finish, and protects the machine's spindle from premature wear, avoiding costly downtime and repairs.
What makes STS Line tool cones different from standard tool cones?
STS Line cones are made of certified stainless steel, which makes them stainless to the core. Standard cones, on the other hand, often have only a thin surface coating (like black oxide) that can be easily damaged, leading to rust and irreparable corrosion.
Why should I choose a tool holder made from solid stainless steel?
A solid stainless steel tool holder provides **consistent hardness from the core to the surface** (54 HRC), offering superior durability and strength. This protects your spindle from premature wear, prevents tool chatter, and leads to better finishes. Coated cones have a very hard surface but a soft core, which makes them less resistant over time.
Can STS Line cones rust?
Under certain harsh conditions, STS Line cones may develop a light, skin-deep surface oxidation. However, this is easily removed with a simple cleaning, restoring the cone to its original condition. Unlike coated cones, the corrosion does not penetrate the core and does not compromise the cone's integrity.
Are STS Line tool cones more precise?
Yes, STS Line tool holders are **100% rectified** at the very end of the production process. This allows for an exceptional h6 shaft centering tolerance (0.016 mm), which is significantly more precise than the h7 to h8 tolerance of competing cones.
Technical Details
What is the break load of the pull studs?
Every STS Line pull stud is tested, and the lot is released only if the **break load exceeds 26000N**, which is more than double the break load of many competitors.
How can I be sure of the quality and traceability?
STS Line offers 100% traceability. All tool holders and pull studs are identified with a unique serial number, which allows for tracking the entire production process, from the initial steel bar to the final grinding.
What is the “Salt spray test”?
The salt spray test is a controlled test used to check the corrosion resistance of materials and coatings. The STS Line cones are tested to withstand over 36 hours before showing light oxidation, while coated cones, once scratched, can start to rust much faster and irreversibly.
What machines are the STS Line cones compatible with?
The range of products is expanding daily to be compatible with the most popular machines, including Intermac, Bottero, Bavelloni, Breton, Denver, Donatoni, Helios, Thibaut, Park Industries, and Northwood.