Job shops are famously resourceful. To solve difficult machining problems or make work easier, they often invent their own solutions. Then they realize they might have a product to sell to other machine shops. That is how the Versa-LOK came about. The device, shown at left, is designed to make it easier and safer to put toolholders, collets and cutting tools together. It's an alternative to using other methods that can damage the toolholder or invite unsafe use of hand tools.
This device was developed by David Lelonek's company, Automated Machine Technologies, Inc. (AMT), in Orchard Park, New York. The company started out as a contract engineering and manufacturing service company. As this business grew, so did the company's machining. Assembling cutters, collets and V-flange toolholders became a bottleneck, so Mr. Lelonek had one of his engineers design and build a fixture that worked better and was more versatile than devices currently available. |
