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Home > Spindles & ATCs > Details - ATC System > Getting Started with Your ATC System: Complete Checklist & Planning Guide
Getting Started with Your ATC System: Complete Checklist & Planning Guide
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The Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) system is one of the most powerful upgrades available for CNC machines — but it does come with added complexity. This guide helps you confidently prepare for your ATC installation and operation by outlining everything you’ll need, why you need it, and how to avoid surprises during your build.


🔧 Core ATC Components (Included in PwnCNC’s ATC System)

These are the essential parts that make up the mechanical and electrical tool-changing system:

  • ATC-Compatible Spindle (Air-activated drawbar, either 1.5kW 110V or 2.2kW 220V)

  • VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) — matched for the spindle’s voltage and frequency

  • Pneumatics Enclosure (PE) and tubes — controls the air required to open and close the drawbar

  • Spindle Power & Motor Sensor Cables — plug-n-play aircraft connectors for easy install

  • (4) ISO20 Tool Holders and ISO20 Wrenches — interchangable bit holders that the ATC motor picks up when commanded

  • (1) 1/8", (2) 1/4", 1/2" Collets - Used inside the ISO20 tool holders to hold individual bits.

  • (4) Tool Holder Racks - flush style tool holders included

🧠 Tip: All of the above is available bundled in PwnCNC’s ATC System listings.


📦 Additional Required Items (Not Included)

While the above gets the spindle and tool changer functional, these items are necessary for a working environment:

🛠️ Tooling & Fixtures

💨 Compressed Air System

  • Air Compressor (at least 4.5 gallon, 90+ PSI tanked or silent continuous system)

  • Inline Air Dryer / Filter — Removes moisture before reaching spindle or solenoids

  • Regulator — Maintain ~90 PSI at spindle input

  • Tubing & Fittings — Properly sized for compressor and solenoids (typically 6mm OD)

📌 The compressor must be available during tool changes, and some users keep it powered during the entire job to ensure consistency. The ATC requires air for tool release and air blast for dust protection.

💡 NOTE: We do not recommend skipping the air dryer — water in your airline can ruin a spindle over time.  Look for desiccant or refrigerated air dryers compatible with your PSI rating.


💡 Environmental Notes & Use Case Fit

  • A heated, air-conditioned basement with 40% humidity is a great environment — you may still want a dryer or at least a basic moisture separator, especially during summer months.

  • Compressor noise is only relevant during tool changes; the ATC system doesn’t need constant air unless using air blast.

  • If you plan for 8 tools/bits in the racks ready to be picked up by the motor then plan for:

    • (4) ISO20 tool holders - additional

    • (4) ER20 collets - matching the style of bits you want available


⚡ Power Considerations

You're already well prepared:

  • ✅ Dedicated L6-20R for the 220V 2.2kW ATC System- or Dedicated L5-20R for the 110V 1.5kW ATC System

  • ✅ Dedicated 110v circuit for your CNC machine and PE

  • ✅ Separate circuit for dust collector

 

These meet or exceed our installation recommendations.


🛒 One-Order Purchase Strategy

PwnCNC offers all ATC-required components except the air compressor and air dryer. When you’re ready, contact us directly and we’ll help assemble a custom order containing:

  • ✅ Correct spindle and ATC system

  • ✅ Enough holders/collets for your rack plans

  • ✅ Recommended accessories

This helps you avoid the dreaded 6-trip Home Depot run.


🔗 Useful Links


🤝 Need Help?

We're happy to help you build out a complete ATC system. If you have a cart ready but aren’t sure if it includes everything, email [email protected] with your build notes or questions and we’ll review it before you purchase.

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