Mechanical Indexer Synchronizes with NC Program

The Kawata Touchdex indexer, available from Tecnara, is designed for fast setup and flexibility. Needing no power cables or digital interface, the fully mechanical unit indexes automatically and is synchronized with the NC program. The Touchdex uses a locking pin that automatically fixes the workpiece with a clamping force two to three times greater than an ordinary friction brake, according to the company, and can handle heavy milling, end milling, drilling and tapping jobs with precision and consistency. Indexing accuracy is less than 30 sec. (cumulative); repeat accuracy is ±3 sec. By aligning two or more units, multiple workpieces can be machined simultaneously.

The Touchdex indexer is available in a variety of models, including the FDR for clockwise and counter-clockwise operation, with a minimum indexing angle of 1 or 5 degrees; the FDM for vertical or horizontal installation, with a maximum indexing angle plus full pushbar stroke of 15, 45 or 90 degrees; the tilting model, which integrates two units for five-face machining on vertical machining centers; and the Vicedex model enabling three-face machining in a single operation.