What Materials Are Machine Collets Made From?

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Machine collets, like standard clamps, hold objects securely, but are comprised of high strength materials.

Chucks refer to clamps used to hold objects, typically with a symmetrical shape. Machine collets, a subtype of chuck, perform this function via a specialized design and durable material.

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Function

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A machine collet clamps onto, or holds, an object by forming a collar around that object. The machine collet, when tightened, exerts a clamping force on the object through the outer collar.

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Design

A machine collet consists of a sleeve comprised of an inner cylindrical surface with a conical-shaped, outer surface. A spring collet contains cuts along its length, enabling contraction and expansion, and can exert pressure around a matching taper until its inner surface contracts in diameter. This enables the collet to secure and hold the object or workpiece.

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Materials

High grade tool steel, or carbon and alloy steel with a carbon content between .7 percent and 1.5 percent, typically makes up standard machine collet sleeves. Spring machine collets are typically comprised of spring steel, a low alloy, medium carbon steel with a high yield point or yield strength.

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