Changed my mind about leaving the tool in the holder between runs

I used to pull the tool out after every job to clean it, thinking it was better for the machine. Last week, I left a 3/4 inch end mill in the holder for three straight jobs, just wiping it down. The runout check was still perfect, and I saved about 15 minutes of setup. I learned that constant removal might cause more wear on the taper than just leaving a clean tool be. Has anyone else found a simple habit they thought was right but was just extra work?

2 comments

2 Comments

iris_ellis1mo ago

Been there, done that for sure.

schmidt.amy1mo ago

Remember getting so lost in a project I forgot to eat lunch. Looked up and it was dark outside, totally missed three calls. That weird focus is a double-edged sword for sure. You get a ton done but lose track of everything else. Makes you wonder if the trade-off is worth it sometimes.