Cam index

A cam index is a device used to convey parts for assembly, machining, packaging, finishing, or other manufacturing operations. This cam index conveys the parts in a rotary or dial motion, stopping intermittently in station "to dwell" for a fixed period of time. The dwell time and index time between stations are programmed and variable. Most cam indexers consist of a series of cam followers mounted to a drive plate or spindle which ultimately moves the dial plate. The number of cam followers determines the number of index stations.

The number of index stations of a cam index is predetermined and specified at the time of purchase. Stations range from a minimum of two up to thirty-six in a 360� work circle. Stations on a cam index are typically set at 20�, 40�, 60�, 120�, 180�, etc. Cam indexers provide controlled acceleration and deceleration from station to station in a clockwise or counterclockwise mode. Index times can be as low as .20 seconds, and over 150 cycles per minute.

Cam index diameters range from 5" to 40". Electric motors are the most common drive source, however, cam indexers can be driven by air and fluid motors. Most cam indexers are dedicated and installed in automatic machines. Cam indexers are specified based on inertia load capacity, work circle radius, and speed of index time.