Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] 4th axis rotary table - suggestions?

In a message dated 8/19/00 1:32:23 AM Hawaiian Standard Time,
munro@... writes:

<< Loads shouldn't
be a problem, but I've always thought that massive iron construction was
the key to accurate and chatter free cuts. How have other people dealt
with the 4th axis problem?

David M. Munro >>


David,

Most quality rotary tables have the worm mounted in an eccentric bushing.
By turning this bushing and locking it, one can adjust the lash down to an
acceptable level. Make sure you adjust the thrust bearing on the worm shaft
also. Then, if you are machining on it while rotating, chatter can be
minimized. If you are using your 4 th axis as an indexer only, then you may
consider air cylinders on the table lock levers. Connect your air solenoid to
a M function output and program the air cylinder(s) to lock or unlock at the
appropriate time. Yes, generally, the larger the rotary table, ( more cast
iron) the less chatter is a problem.

Peter
THRD, Inc.