Wedge or Piston QCTP

[Skimpass]

Ready to order a QCTP for my lathe. Going with an BXA. Is one better than the other in reference to wedge or piston type?
Whats the best Aloris clone?

 

[RJSakowski]

It is my understanding that the wedge type is superior to the piston type. The reasoning is that the piston type pushes the tool holder away from the QCTP so the contact surfaces oare the dovetails and the piston. In contrast, the wedge type pulls he tool holder in so the contact surfaces are the wedge and opposing dovetail and the body of the QCTP. This in theory, results in a more rigid and more reproducible mounting of the tool holder.


That said, I have a piston type and haven't had any problems with it. Mine is a Grizzly. I haven't used any other brands but based on the tool holders, the Shars appears to be better quality. I have had no experience with the Phase II QCTP system though.

 

[woodchucker]

I went with a Wedge. I'm no longer sure it matters. Years ago I read how the wedge were better.
But I see a lot of high end (not Aloris type) that are piston. The wedge type pulls the holder to the flats and fills the dovetail so it would seem better. But one of those dovetails is moving.

The piston type relies on the fixed dovetails (so no moving) and relies on the piston pushing tight to them.

I no longer believe one better because of the moving jaw...

 

[Skimpass]

The AXA i had on my SB was a wedge style... i had some issues with repetitive tool height but yes it seems wedge style would provide a better interface.

 

[Larry$]

I also have a wedge type that came on my PM lathe. It seems fine but I've never used a high end one. You just need to make sure it is clean when you change tool holders.

 

[Winegrower]

There is, in my experience, about zero difference between high and low end QCTPs. I would not willingly spend more for Aloris. The exception is the 71 parting blade…now that piece works the way you’d hope it would.

 

[Skimpass]

There is, in my experience, about zero difference between high and low end QCTPs. I would not willingly spend more for Aloris. The exception is the 71 parting blade…now that piece works the way you’d hope it would.

The AXA i had on my SB was a China clone and worked great and provided excellent surface finishes.

 

[Superburban]

Unless you are going to push your machine to its limits, I do not see that you will ever notice a difference. Yes, one might be a tad more rigid, but is it enough to justify the cost? I never heard of either style breaking. Or for that matter, a clone breaking.

 

[davidpbest]

Dorian makes the best Aloris clone. Stick with wedge type.

 

[NCjeeper]

Yeah another vote for wedge style.