Desktop MAX ATC

August 08, 2019
Desktop MAX ATC

ShopBot Tools has announced the launch of the ShopBot Desktop MAX ATC, the newest addition to its desktop tool line. The Desktop MAX ATC has all of the same capabilities of the popular Desktop MAX but has the additional power and efficiency of an automatic toolchanger (ATC). 

Like the company's other desktop tools, it utilizes a unique frame and bed design (36”x24” cutting area), which is completely open underneath. There are two different deck options: a universal vacuum hold down deck or an aluminum deck, which can be partially or completely removed for a wide variety of endmilling and edge work. It also features a dual-motor gantry design, providing impressive stability and precision.

An ATC reduces production time by quickly and robotically changing cutters between toolpaths, eliminating the need to change and zero tools individually. “The MAX ATC is a factory at your fingertips,” offers Ryan Patterson, one of the engineers on the team that developed the Desktop MAX ATC. “It’s out of the crate ready to add to a production line in any size shop and can be set up with a variety of accessories for virtually any custom application.” 

ShopBot's expanding array of CNC tools are used in prototyping, full production cutting, carving, machining and milling in a variety of materials, including wood, MDF, plastics, foams and soft metals. The full line of tools from ShopBot is oriented to be used for both standard and specialty operations. ShopBot's CNC tools deliver professional power and precision typically associated with more expensive CNC tools.

Jeanne Taylor, ShopBot’s COO, explains, “The ShopBot Desktop MAX ATC aligns our commitment to well thought-out tool design and our ongoing interest in helping small businesses be more productive and profitable. This small footprint – extremely accessible – CNC powerhouse, when paired with the automatic toolchanger capabilities, is truly a unique tool in the market.”

The tool ships fully assembled and uses 110v household power, it comes standard with a six-position tool bank, six ISO20 toolholders and six ¼” collets. Customers will need an air source to provide 4 cfm  at 90 psi to utilize the automatic toolchanger. The MAX ATC ships with ShopBot Control System software and comes bundled with two powerful software programs to create CNC projects. It also includes a simple, quick start set-up guide.

The ShopBot Desktop MAX ATC will begin shipping in late August 2019, ShopBot Tools is currently taking pre-orders for the tool. The Desktop MAX ATC starts at $14,950 and can be bundled with an Invision Full Enclosure, the ShopBot Edge Clamp Joinery Jig and other accessories.

Related Glossary Terms

  • automatic toolchanger

    automatic toolchanger

    Mechanism typically included in a machining center that, on the appropriate command, removes one cutting tool from the spindle nose and replaces it with another. The changer restores the used tool to the magazine and selects and withdraws the next desired tool from the storage magazine. The changer is controlled by a set of prerecorded/predetermined instructions associated with the part(s) to be produced.

  • computer numerical control ( CNC)

    computer numerical control ( CNC)

    Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts. Programmed numerical control activates the machine’s servos and spindle drives and controls the various machining operations. See DNC, direct numerical control; NC, numerical control.

  • endmilling

    endmilling

    Operation in which the cutter is mounted on the machine’s spindle rather than on an arbor. Commonly associated with facing operations on a milling machine.

  • gang cutting ( milling)

    gang cutting ( milling)

    Machining with several cutters mounted on a single arbor, generally for simultaneous cutting.

  • jig

    jig

    Tooling usually considered to be a stationary apparatus. A jig assists in the assembly or manufacture of a part or device. It holds the workpiece while guiding the cutting tool with a bushing. A jig used in subassembly or final assembly might provide assembly aids such as alignments and adjustments. See fixture.

  • milling

    milling

    Machining operation in which metal or other material is removed by applying power to a rotating cutter. In vertical milling, the cutting tool is mounted vertically on the spindle. In horizontal milling, the cutting tool is mounted horizontally, either directly on the spindle or on an arbor. Horizontal milling is further broken down into conventional milling, where the cutter rotates opposite the direction of feed, or “up” into the workpiece; and climb milling, where the cutter rotates in the direction of feed, or “down” into the workpiece. Milling operations include plane or surface milling, endmilling, facemilling, angle milling, form milling and profiling.

  • toolchanger

    toolchanger

    Carriage or drum attached to a machining center that holds tools until needed; when a tool is needed, the toolchanger inserts the tool into the machine spindle. See automatic toolchanger.