Tool changer for rotatable tool assemblies in punching machines

Tool changer for rotatable tool assemblies in punching machines, including an upper rotatable housing (1) for guiding an axially movable upper tool and a lower housing (2) coaxial and synchronously rotatable therewith for guiding an axially stationary lower tool cooperating with said upper tool in tool working positions as obtained in the guided condition of the tools when received in said upper and lower housings, characterized in that the tool housings (1,2) comprise a first guide part (11,11') rotatable about an axis common to said upper and lower housings and a second guide part (12,12') latchable to said first guide part and coacting therewith, said second guide part being movable by means of transfer means (20,21) engaging the second guide part for moving the second guide part from a retracted position away from the first guide part and beyond a tool received in a magazine in a delivery position therein for transferring an upper and a lower tool to working positions in the respective housings by pushing the tools along guide surfaces on magazing tool reception arms and aligned guide surfaces on the respective first guide parts, and means (13) being provided for latching the second guide part (12,12') to the first guide part (11,11') in tool working position without obstructing the rotatability of the tool housing.