Index Table Assists With Low Production Capacity

Large workpieces, a lack of space in the machining area and a lack of automation can limit production capacity. Pascal Engineering Inc. says its index table is designed to assist in resolving production capacity problems in the following three ways. It features a brakeless design, enabling it to be used at high speeds in combination with large workpieces. Its compact design accommodates various machine sizes to save space. Finally, its numerous ports increase automation.

Photo Credit: Pascal Engineering Inc.

Pascal’s MDF index table operates with a 90° index 0.5 sec. Its distinct rolling gear transmission is maintenance free and can operate with high accuracy for an extended period of time, Pascal says. In comparison, traditional worm gear undergoes abrasive wear with the potential to lead to backlash, causing machining failure and degrading index accuracy.

Due to its compact nature, a small machining center can be selected instead of a medium-sized machining center. With this, the number of machines in the installation area can be increased, resulting in the production capacity increasing 1.5 times its original size. For example, it can enable a machining center to increase its production capacity from 16 Robodrill units to 24 units in the same amount of space.

Pascal reports the MDF index table has a total of 20 ports. The intention behind this number of ports is to make it well-suited for automation. 18 of the ports can be used for hydraulic and air while two are for coolant. A double acting cylinder with sensing can be used instead of a single cylinder, and its rotary joint accommodates a 7MPa pressure circuit.