Rotary Index Tables
Rotary index tables are used
most commonly in special high volume machining and assembly operations.
Also know as, index tables, indexing tables, rotary indexing tables,
transfer tables, rotary transfer tables, dial tables and rotary dial
tables, they are distinguished from programmable rotary tables commonly
used on CNC machining centers in that they are made to stop at precise
intervals a fixed number of times every 360 degrees of rotation.
This amount of stops, or “stations”, in one complete table rotation
determines the number of different machining, assembly, marking, filling
or measuring operations the machine can accommodate. For instance,
if a table has 8 stations, it will stop every 45 degrees and allow
for up to seven simultaneous operations with the eighth normally being
reserved for unloading of a completed part and loading of a raw part,
if it is a four station it will stop every 90 degrees, and so on.
The number of stations any particular table has is determined by several
different mechanisms which mechanically lock the table in position.
These different methods vary in cost, positioning accuracy and index
speed as well as a number of weights and forces that can be placed
on or performed on the table. These indexing methods, therefore, dictate
the applications for which each type of index table is best suited.
Some of the main types are as follows:
Below are common applications for each
type of index table. Click thru to view further explanation of the
drive type and manufacturers of each type. Submit any questions you
may have using the form on the left of each page, and our engineering
staff will respond with any answers or recommendations.
