Dial index machine

A dial index machine is a device used to convey parts for assembly, machining, packaging, finishing, or other manufacturing operations. This dial index machine 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.

The number of index stations of a dial index machine 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 dial index machine are typically set at 20�, 40�, 60�, 120�, 180�, etc. Dial index machines 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.

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