Bridgeport Spindle Not Releasing

Machine Shop
#1

Hello,

Got to the shop pretty early and saw a few tools were left out on the Bridgeport but no sign saying anything was in progress, so I went ahead with my work. After finishing some planning work I found that the spindle wouldn’t release the face mill.

I went through the past posts relating to this for troubleshooting purposes and:

  • The quill is fully retracted
  • Air is on
  • A little ‘love tap’ did not help

The quill also feels / sounds (based on attempted release) engaged - I shifted it into neutral and slowly raised the spindle whilst manually turning it to challenge this and don’t believe it to be disengaged.

Anywho, I had used this face mill last night without issue so there’s a fair chance that some of the work done last night may be related to what is going on (just hunting for clues, here).

Thank you,

#2

Did you get it out yet? There are times where under use that the spindle will heat up. It will cause the tool/collet to get stuck until it cools a little bit. Shouldn’t take too long, just a few minutes.

#3

I did not get it out before having left this morning. Between the first and last attempt, I imagine something on the order of 45 minutes had elapsed, so thermal expansion I feel can be safely ruled out.