Machining or metalworking requires precise cutting and shaping of metals. Machining is accomplished with the use of milling machines and lathes. Often accessories must be used to create a specific machining task. One such accessory is the rotary table. A rotary table is comprised of a circular surface mounted on a lathe or milling machine. Its specialties include precise measurements and table rotation for multiple maneuvers. Here are some things you should know about using this type of machining equipment.
How Is a Manual Rotary Table Used?
When a metalwork project requires precise positioning to cut and shape metal, a rotary table is essential. The rotary table is positioned under machinist tools to cut or drill specific measurements of width and depth. The rotary table rotates or swivels to a precise location as set by the machinist. By swiveling the rotary table, machinists are enabled to create intricate tools and parts for various industries from automobile to aeronautics, environment control components and press fit assemblies.
A rotary table can be used to:
• Create large diameter holes
• Cut a round piece with a protruding tang
• Cut complex curves
• Cut straight lines at any angle
• Cut arcs
• Cut circular pieces
• Drill equidistant holes on a circular flange
• Machine spanner flats on a bolt
• Mill helixes
A rotary table may be mounted horizontally, vertically as well as inverted onto a milling machine. Horizontal mounting is like a standard table -- mounted flat or level with the floor. Vertical mounting is mounted at a 90-degree angle to the floor. Inverted is horizontal, but upside down, away from the cutting tool.
Rotary tables can be used in automated work as well as manual work. The drive of the rotary table enables movement of the rotary table by a machinist once it is mounted horizontally, vertically or inverted. Manual rotary table drives are hand cranks used to rotate the table into optimal position. More complicated rotary tables rotate on multiple axes, allowing the table to spin horizontally, vertically and tip left or right and forward or backward. Some rotary tables are equipped with brakes, which slow the movements of the table to aid the cutting of the tool. Other machine tools accessories include spindles and collets for smoother rotation.
Choosing A Rotary Table
When choosing a rotary table, it is vital to consider what size will be adequate for the sort of work needed to be accomplished. The weight of the table is critical due to their weight-bearing limitations. Make sure the table is rated for adequate radial weight load as well as table weight load to bear the weight of the object being machined. The rate of movement of the rotary table must be considered, too. Appropriate rotation increments are necessary to complete machining specified by plans and vary from job to job. Make sure the rotary table has clear markings in metric and standard scale.
Whatever manual rotary table is selected, be sure to mount it securely and then mount the workpiece into place. Most rotary tables have slots for bolts to attach the workpiece solidly onto the table. Others have vises or grip jaws which hold the workpiece securely. Two critical points of positioning are to place the workpiece on the rotary table so the center of the arc is at the center of the table; and the workpiece is tightened into position.
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