What to Look for When Buying Used Kennametal Erickson Toolholders
Erickson toolholders are precision-manufactured to ANSI, DIN, and ISO specifications and are designed for long service life in production machining environments. Used holders frequently retain excellent accuracy when properly maintained. Here is what to inspect.
Inspect the taper and flange for damage. Examine the taper surface for fretting corrosion, nicks, or discoloration from overheating. Even minor taper damage compromises runout and clamping force. On CAT and BT holders, check the V-flange for dings from ATC gripper contact. On CVKV dual-contact holders, verify the flange face is flat and clean. On HSK holders, inspect both the taper and radial driving slots for wear.
Check collet chucks and hydraulic chucks for internal wear. On ER and TG collet chucks, thread a collet and locknut into the body and verify smooth engagement. Test clamping grip on a gauge pin and indicate runout at the tool tip. On hydraulic chucks, verify the clamping screw actuates smoothly and that pressure holds without creep. Inspect the bore for scoring.
Verify retention knob condition and compatibility. The retention knob (pull stud) threads into the back of every V-flange and BT holder and takes the full force of the drawbar. Check for thread damage, galling, or elongation. Confirm the retention knob style (standard, coolant-through, high-retention) matches your machine's drawbar. Retention knobs are inexpensive to replace but must be correct for safe operation.
Erickson V-Flange Toolholders (CAT40 & CAT50)
Erickson CAT40 and CAT50 V-flange toolholders (ANSI B5.50) are the North American standard for machining centers. The lineup includes shrink fit holders, hydraulic chucks, HPMC milling chucks, ER and TG collet chucks, end mill holders, shell mill holders, tap chucks, floating holders, and whistle notch adapters. CAT40 is the most common size for mid-range VMCs and HMCs. CAT50 serves larger machines requiring higher torque.
Erickson BT & Dual-Contact Toolholders
Erickson BT30, BT40, and BT50 holders follow the MAS/JIS standard and are widely used on Japanese and globally specified machining centers. The same product types available in CAT taper (shrink fit, hydraulic, collet chuck, end mill, shell mill, tap) are produced in BT configurations. BTKV and CVKV dual-contact variants add simultaneous flange face engagement for increased rigidity, reduced vibration, and reliable performance at higher spindle speeds. Erickson CVKV40 and CVKV50 holders are prebalanced for effective operation up to 20,000 RPM.
Erickson HSK Toolholders
Erickson HSK (Hollow Shank Taper) holders are produced in HSK-A40, A63, A100, and A125 for automatic tool change applications, plus HSK-C and HSK-F variants for manual clamping and special machines. HSK delivers higher radial and axial stiffness than V-flange tapers at equivalent sizes, with superior repeatability under high-speed rotation. The Erickson HSK lineup includes shrink fit, hydraulic chucks, ER collet chucks, whistle notch adapters, and modular extensions.
KM Modular & VDI Toolholders
The Kennametal KM quick-change modular connection is an ISO-standardized interface for rapid tool changes on machining centers and turning centers. KM clamping units mount in the machine spindle or turret, accepting interchangeable KM cutting units that lock in place with high repeatability. This system reduces setup time significantly in high-mix production. VDI toolholders (Form A through Z configurations) serve CNC lathe turrets with axial and radial live tooling, boring bar holders, and static tool blocks.
Erickson Collets & Accessories
ER collets (DIN 6499, sizes ER08 through ER50) are the global standard for collet chucking, available in standard straight-bore, tap, and coolant-sealed configurations. TG single-angle collets (TG75, TG100, TG150) deliver higher gripping force for heavier cuts. DA double-angle collets serve automatic screw machines. Locknuts (standard, coolant, and balanceable), coolant disks, stop screws, and retention knobs complete the Erickson accessory range.
How to Sell Your Used Kennametal Erickson Tooling
Erickson toolholders hold resale value due to the Kennametal brand's global reputation, the precision manufacturing standards, and steady demand from shops upgrading, consolidating, or liquidating tooling inventories. CAT40 and CAT50 holders, HSK chucks, and KM modular units are in consistent demand.
Resell CNC buys used Kennametal Erickson tooling of every type nationwide.
- Contact us — call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, with no obligation.
- Accept the offer — we handle logistics and transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Used Kennametal Erickson Toolholders
What is the relationship between Kennametal and Erickson?
Erickson is Kennametal's toolholder and tooling systems brand. Kennametal acquired the Erickson toolholder line and markets it as part of its global tooling systems division. Used toolholders may carry either the Kennametal name, the Erickson name, or both depending on when and where they were produced.
Are used Erickson toolholders reliable?
Yes. Erickson toolholders are precision-manufactured to ANSI, DIN, and ISO specifications using premium materials and heat treatment. A toolholder with an undamaged taper and properly maintained clamping mechanism will deliver accurate, repeatable performance regardless of age.
What should I inspect before buying a used Erickson toolholder?
Check the taper surface for fretting, nicks, or heat discoloration. On collet chucks, verify smooth collet engagement and indicate runout on a gauge pin. On hydraulic chucks, test clamping pressure hold. Verify the retention knob is present, undamaged, and compatible with your machine's drawbar.
What Erickson products hold their value best?
HSK shrink fit and hydraulic chucks, CAT50 holders, KM modular clamping units, and CVKV dual-contact holders maintain the strongest resale values. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
What taper size do I need?
The taper standard is determined by your machine's spindle. Most North American VMCs and HMCs use CAT40 or CAT50. Japanese-specification machines use BT30, BT40, or BT50. High-speed machining centers typically use HSK-A63 or HSK-A100. Check your machine's spindle nose specification before purchasing.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Erickson tooling?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help your business acquire the equipment it needs. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Kennametal Erickson tooling?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy Kennametal Erickson toolholders, collets, and accessories nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.