Laser System Aligns Bar Feeders

The L56SS bar feeder alignment laser system from Laser Tools features a magnetic spindle adapter to accommodate bores as small as 0.0393" (1 mm). The system uses a straight beam of laser light and two targets to center and position a bar feeder carriage to the correct height for supplying barstock material to a lathe spindle. On Swiss-type bar-feeder machines, the magnetic spindle adapter and laser assembly mounts onto the headstock over the spindle collet. One target is placed at the entry point of the bar feeder, and the other at the farthest point on the bar feeder.

The bar feeder alignment system includes the company’s AP15 aperture pack with ¹/₁₆", ³/₃₂" and ¹/₈" apertures, used to resize the beam for best viewing preference.  The ¹/₁₆" aperture is used for short distances of less than 15 ft., while the larger apertures are used for distances ranging from 15 to 30 ft. The system should be used without an aperture for distances longer than 30 ft.

According to the company, proper alignment with the L56SS system reduces wear on spindle liners and guide bushings, ensures proper remnant release, limits vibration, reduces energy consumption and saves time. It can also reduce maintenance costs, emergency repairs and unplanned downtime.