A collet is a system of chuck that forms a collar around an object. When it is tightened, a strong clamping force is exerted on the object. This clamping force is exerted via a tapered design that utilizes an interior tube-shaped surface. This is used to hold a workpiece or a tool. The collet sort works by being pressed over the component to be held, which results in exact arrangement and static friction. There are many types of collet chucks available for use, differentiated by design and size such as R8 Collet, 5C collet, etc. Each one of them has its own use and benefits.
Here, two types of collet chucks will be discussed, a 3J collet chuck and a 16C collet chuck. But before comparing the two, let’s look at them individually.
3J Collet
These are perfect for holding the tools which are being worked on, such as a lathe. This collet has a unique and thorough capacity, and its length is about 3-3/4”. These are generally connected with a thread and a drawbar, making them suitable for long-term use. The 3J Round Smooth Collets are used to hold plastics, metals, ceramics, etc. The material used to make this collet is hard steel which makes it suitable for extensive contraction and expansion.
16C Collet
This is a type of emergency collet and is useful for fast drilling boring or stepping out to the accurate dimension as per the needs. For exact machining, pins are provided with every emergency collet. Still, you need to keep in mind that these collets are designed for short-term use and are generally needed when a ground collet is not accessible.
Nowadays, some companies are providing two types of 16c Collets. The first one is an emergency collet having a 1/6th pilot hole with a 1/2th straight out the drawn-out nose. The second one is the EN1-4 emergency collet having a 1/16th pilot hole and a one straight out the drawn-out nose.
Difference Between 3J and 16C Collet Chuck
Both of these chucks are not much different from one another. The 3J Collet Chuck has a through-hole capacity up to 1.75”, while the 16C Collet Chuck has a 1.625” through hole capacity. The main difference between the two lies in the oversize collets, which are also called Step Chucks.
The 16C step chucks are available in different lengths, 1/2” and 1-1/4”, and diameter ranges from 2”-6”. You would also need a closing ring in order to make them work on your machine. On the other hand, the 3J Step Chucks are available in 2”-5” diameters and a maximum bore depth of 1/2”. They don’t need closing rings to work.
Now that the differences between the two are clear choose the collet chuck that will satisfy your need the most. PG Collets & Accessories is one of India’s oldest Custom Collet Manufacturers, and they offer a wide range of customized collets such as F-series Collet, 5C Collet, etc.
Our Other Products: