A cam indexer is a precision rotary device that converts continuous rotation into intermittent motion. It is used where indexing, positioning, and intermittent feeding are needed. In pharmaceutical machinery it controls tablet feeding. In press automatic feed mechanisms it provides precise control. In food packaging machinery it keeps the packaging process stable and accurate. It also sees use in glass machinery, ceramic machinery, tobacco machinery, filling machinery, printing machinery, electronic machinery, and automatic tool changers on machining centers.
Working principle
When the input shaft rotates, the cam rollers drive the output turret according to a preset displacement curve and roll on the flanks of the ribs. In the region where the ribs and cam end face are in balance, that is, the dwell range, the rollers engage their shaft but the output turret does not rotate. Tapered support ribs usually contact two or three cam rollers, so input shaft rotation transfers evenly to the output shaft. If the cam surface and rollers are not smooth, the indexer can be damaged. Adjusting the center distance between shafts can remove uneven rotation. Adjusting preload to bring the rollers close to the elastic zone of the cam increases indexer rigidity. We can machine cams, rollers, indexing discs, output turrets, and other parts to customer drawings, for single pieces or small batches, with material and heat treatment specified by the drawing.
Advantages
Simple structure. It mainly consists of a three-dimensional cam and an indexing disc.
Accurate motion. It positions accurately in both the indexing range and the dwell range, without additional locking elements. The dwell-to-index ratio and number of indexes can be set as required.
Smooth transmission. The three-dimensional cam curve has good motion characteristics. Transmission is smooth and continuous, with low vibration and noise.
High output indexing accuracy. Typical output accuracy is ≤±50 arcseconds, and higher grades reach ≤±30 arcseconds.
Good high-speed performance. Because the three-dimensional cam and indexing wheel mesh without clearance, impact and vibration are low, and speeds up to 900 rpm are possible.
Long service life. Standard service life is 12,000 hours.
Beyond parts for cam indexers, our precision component machining capability also covers non-standard components for tobacco packaging machinery, filling machinery, printing machinery, and pharmaceutical machinery, as well as precision structural parts for yachts and RC race cars. Hansheng Automation machines single pieces or small batches to customer drawings, with material, tolerance, and surface finish specified by the drawing.
