MACHINE TOOL DISTRIBUTOR FOR CRYOGENIC COOLING OF CUTTING TOOLS ON A TURRET PLATE

摘要

A cryogenic fluid distributor for turret machine tools (e.g.,lathes) directs a stream of cryogenic fluid from an external, pressurized cryogen source to a working position of a machine tool to prevent overheating of the tool. Designed for easy retrofitting and synchronizing with multi-tool turret machines, the distributor allows for a "dual-fluid" machining capability combining a cryogenic fluid and a conventional cutting fluid (flowing via a conventional coolant system built into a given machine tool). Made of low thermal- mass, insulating polymer and metallic parts, the distributor utilizes the different thermal contraction coefficients of the parts to establish cryogenic sealing connections, which eliminates undesired turret plate cooling and assures rapid cryogen flow sta rt- up.