Manufacturing Processes that Benefit from Pneumatic Rotary Index Tables

Rotary index tables can help to improve a wide variety of manufacturing processes with simple automation for positioning and indexing. The ability to quickly rotate and position a workpiece or component has made it possible to speed these processes up, while also improving accuracy. Indexing, or positioning, tables can be electrically driven, servo driven or pneumatically powered. Let’s take a closer look at pneumatic rotary index tables, and what processes they might be used for.

What is a Rotary Index Table?

A rotary index table is a mechanical device used in manufacturing and machining processes to position and rotate workpieces at specific intervals during a production cycle. It is primarily used to improve the efficiency of operations by allowing precise, automated positioning of the workpiece. This makes it possible to perform multiple operations without the need for manual repositioning, thus speeding up the process and improving accuracy by removing human error.

How Does a Rotary Index Table Work?

The basic design of a rotary index table consists of a circular platform that can rotate about its center axis. The workpiece is securely mounted onto this platform, and the table then turns the workpiece to predetermined positions.

The rotary index table works by integrating with another process through a control system. The control system governs the movement and indexing of the table, ensuring accurate positioning for each operation. Some rotary index tables are manually controlled, while others can be synchronized with the overall manufacturing control system and for fully automated production.

9 Manufacturing Processes that Benefit from Pneumatic Rotary Index Tables

A rotary index table is a versatile tool that can enhance a variety of manufacturing processes, making the process faster and more accurate, with fewer defects. Electric or servo driven rotary index tables can be applied to many of the following processes, but there are clear advantages in terms of efficiency and setup for using a pneumatically powered indexing table, over an electrically operated unit. Pneumatic indexing, or positioning, tables also come at a much lower investment cost than their electric or servo driven counterparts. The following manufacturing processes can benefit from pneumatic rotary index tables:

1. Machining and Milling

Rotary index tables are commonly used in machining and milling processes to work on multiple sides of the workpiece in quick succession. The ability to rotate the workpiece to different positions quickly makes it possible to work on multiple faces without the need for manual repositioning. This way, even complex components can be completed quickly. The rotary index table can automatically move the workpiece as needed, which reduces the need for manual intervention or monitoring.

2. Assembly

Assembly can significantly eat into production times. Rotary index tables can speed up this process. In assembly lines, rotary index tables can be used to position components for assembly to a specific location for the next operation. When fitting pieces together, adding fasteners, or completing other tasks, a rotary index table will move parts quickly at the appropriate time and location. This ensures a constant and accurate workflow of the assembly process.

3. Inspection and Quality Control

Quality control is essential to ensure defective products do not make it into circulation. For thorough inspection, a rotary index table can be used to present different surfaces of a product to inspection equipment or cameras. This allows for comprehensive quality control checks, ensuring that each aspect of the product meets the specified standards.

4. Welding

Welding operations benefit from rotary index tables by allowing exact positioning of parts for a welder to approach at various angles. This is particularly useful for fabricating complex structures where welding needs to be performed on multiple surfaces.

5. Engraving and Marking

Rotary index tables are valuable in engraving and marking processes. The ability to rotate the workpiece enables consistent and accurate marking on different sides, contributing to efficient product labeling and identification.

6. Laser Cutting and Etching

Laser cutting and etching processes can be improved with a rotary index table by enabling the laser to access different areas of a workpiece. This is particularly beneficial for intricate designs or for making multiple cuts on various surfaces.

7. Grinding Operations

In grinding applications, a rotary index table can be utilized to present different surfaces of a workpiece to the grinding wheel. This allows for uniform material removal and precise shaping of the part.

8. Painting Applications

Rotary index tables can also be used for various painting or preparation applications. Similarly to grinding applications above, a positioning table can present different faces of a part automatically to be sandblasted or sprayed with paint evenly. For sandblasting applications, this speeds up the process, and for painting, this offers the added benefit of removing any part handling until the evenly applied paint has set and dried.

9. Hazardous or Explosion-Proof Applications

For manufacturing applications within hazardous environments, where explosion-proof equipment is necessary, pneumatic rotary indexing tables have a clear advantage over servo or electrically driven positioning tables. Manufacturing environments with ignitable, flammable, or combustible atmospheres often prohibit the use of electricity, as any spark could cause an explosive reaction. For these environments, pneumatically powered indexing tables offer the benefit of simple automation within explosion-proof requirements.

In summary, the versatility of rotary index tables makes them a valuable asset in various manufacturing processes, offering enhanced precision, efficiency, and flexibility in the production of complex components and products. To learn more about pneumatic rotary index tables across different pressing processes, including stamping, joining, marking, and more, contact us today.