What Are Cam Indexers?

Cam indexers are positioning devices that rotate or index to a stop at fixed or programmable intervals, precisely positioning components or parts at specified locations. The cams themselves are the mechanical elements that enable rotation. These cams are machined from high-quality materials and heat-treated for durability, ensuring the highest precision and superior indexing accuracy.

The cams are ground to exact tolerances with smooth finishes, reducing wear and preventing changes in performance due to shape degradation. Cam followers feature long-life sealed bearings and hardened wear surfaces, boosting durability and reliability for a longer service life. They are designed to endure high loads and speeds, cam indexers offer reliable performance in demanding environments.

How do Cam Indexers Function?

As the cam rotates, a follower engages with it, causing the part to pause at predetermined positions—referred to as “dwell” times. During these dwell periods, a specific operation (e.g., machining or assembly) is performed on the workpiece. Once the operation is completed, indexing resumes, ensuring accurate, repeatable positioning of workpieces, tooling, or other components.

Key Benefits of Cam Indexers

• Precision Control: The cam’s design allows for precise control over indexing behavior. Key factors such as rotational acceleration, deceleration, time between stops, and dwell times are carefully engineered to ensure consistent, reliable motion.
• Efficiency: By controlling motion with great accuracy, cam indexers enable smooth and reliable operation in automated systems, improving overall system efficiency.
• Automation: While parts can be manually loaded, cam indexers are typically fed automatically by other machines in the assembly line. This automated integration supports the shift towards fully automated systems, enhancing production efficiency and streamlining operations.

Cam indexers provide a precise and efficient solution for part handling in automated processes. Their ability to control indexing and ensure consistent positioning makes them invaluable for various applications, while automation capabilities further boost productivity and operational efficiency.

What Industries Benefit From Indexing Drives?

Cam indexers are essential for all manufacturers striving to enhance automation and efficiency in their operations. Whether a manufacturer is looking for heavy duty rotating positioning or a simple assembly task involving small parts, coupling an assembly tool with an indexing table is one of the most effective solutions.

Common industries that benefit from cam indexers include: 

• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Medical
• Packaging
• Consumer goods
• Heavy manufacturing
• Technology
• Nuclear power
• And many others.

These devices enable precise and reliable automation, driving productivity across a wide range of sectors.

Applications That Complement Cam Indexers

Zero Backlash

Manufacturers incorporating cam indexing tables into their applications are often seeking the benefits of zero-backlash capabilities. This feature ensures precise, backlash-free movement, which is crucial for maintaining accuracy and consistency in automated processes. Zero-backlash design minimizes any play or movement between components, the contact between the cam and cam followers is engineered to be tight and precise. This results in smooth, reliable performance and improved overall system efficiency.

High Customization

Cam indexers are designed for high customization, allowing them to be tailored to meet the specific needs of various applications. Customization options can range from the cam shape and roller size to the materials used in construction, ensuring the cam indexer is optimized for the particular demands of the system and improving overall performance and reliability.

Fast Vertical Operations

Most cam indexers work with machines that perform fast and simple vertical operations. These machines are a perfect complement to cam indexers, as they can remain in a fixed position throughout the entire manufacturing process. The cam indexer ensures each part or product is brought to the precise position for modification or assembly. When the timing of these machines is well-coordinated, the assembly process can be completed in a fraction of the time.

How to Choose a Cam Indexing Drive Manufacturer

Top cam indexer manufacturers focus on delivering durable, high-performance components, paying special attention to the critical areas where the most wear occurs. When choosing a rotary cam indexer manufacturer, you should look for someone who will consider every aspect of your application in how they engineer your rotary table. Motion Index Drives has been a leading partner in driving automation for global businesses since 1970. Our extensive industry experience allows us to custom manufacture our solutions to meet rigid manufacturing process demands.

Learn more about our options by browsing your choices online, or contact a team member for additional details about how we can help.