Common Uses for an Index Rotary Table

The top of the line rotary indexing tables offered by CNC Indexing & Feeding Technologies provide many capabilities to milling operations. 

What Is an Index Rotary Table?

Rotary tables are mechanical devices used for rotating an object held in place on the table around one or more axes of rotation. An indexing rotary table is specifically designed to rotate an object indexed through preset angles, usually with some sort of detent system that holds the object at each angle for accurate positioning.

What Does an Index Table Do?

Index tables are used in a wide range of applications, from machine parts to optics. CNC Indexing & Feeding Technologies offers high-end rotary index tables that are suitable for the most precise applications, including:

These tables can be rotated in controlled increments for precisely milled angles. When used with a dividing head and an index plate, the table operator can mount the table horizontally with a tail stock to make gears or drill holes in round stock.

Adding a three jaw chuck, the operator can bore holes of various sizes, mill slots to any angle needed and cut complex shapes such as hexagonal faces for wrenches to grip. To give your index rotary table the widest range of usability, you can mount it on a tilting table for compound angles and to give your shop the capability of machining complex parts.

Rotary Indexing Table for Precision Applications

Here is a list of some common uses for rotary indexing tables in manufacturing:

1) As a Tool Holding Fixture

Industrial parts and workpieces often require the holding of tools such as drill bits, end mills, gear cutters, and other cutting tools. Indexing rotary tables are often used to hold these tools in place while they are machined into the workpieces that are held on the table itself.

2) Rotating an Object for Additional Operation

Once one operation is complete, it may be necessary to rotate the object in order to perform another operation using a different tool. Indexing rotary tables make this possible, as objects can be rotated from one preset angle to another for various operations.

3) Measurement of Rotation

In some applications it may be necessary to measure the rotation of an object on an indexer by means of a dial indicator or other measuring device. This is particularly common in optics. Indexing can allow for quick and accurate measurements to be made on rotating components using a dial indicator or other measuring device.

4) Optical Equipment

Some optical equipment requires precise rotation of lenses or mirrors in order to function properly. A rotary indexing table is well suited for this purpose, as indexing provides the precise rotation required for the equipment.

5) Rotation of a Component During Machining

In some applications it may be necessary to rotate a component mounted on a rotary table while it is being machined. Indexing can provide the precise rotation required for this purpose.

Selecting Index Rotary Tables

The CNC index tables we offer at CNC Indexing & Feeding Technologies can be used for a wide range of applications and can be easily customized for the needs of your shop. We offer models with table sizes ranging from 18 inches in diameter to 96 inches in diameter, and they can be equipped with all the necessary accessories such as clamps, chuck, drill fixtures and turning tools.

Indexer Maintenance Checklist

Because an indexer is a precision machine, it requires regular maintenance. The following guidelines should be followed for proper care and maintenance specifically of our indexing tables :

• Perform regular cleaning of your table to ensure that dust does not get into the machine.
• Remove chips or debris from the machine with a compressed air gun or vacuum cleaner.
• Perform routine inspections at the beginning of every job to ensure that the rotary index table is in perfect working condition.
• Check all machine components to determine if they are worn.
• If possible, use a dial indicator to measure the rotary table’s bearings for any inconsistencies or wobbling, which can result in inaccurate indexing or sticking of the table.
• Replace any worn or damaged machine parts immediately.

Get Help Choosing the Right Machine Tool Accessories for Your Needs

CNC Indexing & Feeding Technologies’ machine tool accessories are designed to handle the most demanding machining tasks and optimize speed, performance and efficiency in your job shop. Give us a call today at (513) 770-4200 for more information about our rotary table options and other CNC accessories.