When deciding the best rotary indexing system for automating a new assembly line, engineers often consider, which manufacturer can provide zero backlash. How do cam-driven rotary indexers compare to servo rotary indexers? Which manufacturer can provide high-speed production for automotive manufacturing? Choosing the right rotary index table manufacturer not only impacts your production output, equipment reliability and your ability to accomodate the line as needs change.
Rotary index table manufacturers may provide the same indexing automation but may provide key differences; including indexing technology, fixed versus programmable motion, controls, engineering support, and warranty. The right manufacturer depends on the application’s load, cycle time, positioning requirements and production environment.
Even though rotary index table manufacturers may offer similar specifications, the right solution depends on more than accuracy and speed. Engineers should also consider how the indexer will integrate into the machine, the level of programming required, expected cycle life, and the support available throughout the life of the equipment.
Some of the most important factors to compare include:
Indexing technology: How the cam is manufactured to provide fixed and programmable indexing systems offer different motion flexibility and control.
Accuracy and repeatability: Consider the positioning requirements of the application rather than simply choosing the highest available specification.
Load and cycle requirements: The indexer should be sized for the tooling, inertia, cycle time, and expected production demands.
Controls and integration: Programmable rotary index tables can be powered by a servo motor or ac encoder. A fixed rotary indexer may require less programming.
Reliability: Consider the life expectancy of the rotaary indexer and how it may hold up over millions of cycles and external envirnment conditions.
Engineering support: Availibility to an applicaiton engineer to make sure the indexer is zised and configured to your exact manufacturing needs before install.
Lead time and service: Initial delivery, replacement parts, technical support, and warranty coverage can all affect the long-term cost of the equipment.
Learn more about how to Choose a Rotary Index Table Manufacturer.
|
Consideration |
Motion Index Drives |
WEISS |
CAMCO / DESTACO |
Sankyo |
|
Technology |
Fixed and servo cam-driven indexing systems |
Fixed and servo cam-driven indexing systems |
Mechanical cam-driven rotary indexing systems |
Servo-driven and roller gear cam indexing systems |
|
Ideal Applications |
Requires high precision, durability, straightforward integration or custom engineering |
Requires programmable indexing and integration |
Fixed-indexing requiring proven mechanical indexing |
High-speed, and high-precision applications using roller gear cam technology |
|
Fixed indexing |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
|
Programmable indexing |
✓ Servo-programmable options |
✓ Servo options |
Limited |
✓ |
|
Zero-backlash designs |
✓ |
✓ Depends on the design |
✓ Preloaded cam follower designs |
✓ Preloaded roller gear cam designs |
|
Controls required |
Fixed tables can use AC motor + VFD; programmable tables use servo control |
Depends on table; programmable systems typically require more advanced controls |
Fixed mechanical systems use relatively simple controls |
Depends on mechanical vs. servo system |
|
Warranty |
3-5 years |
Varies |
Varies |
Varies |
|
Maintenance Requirements |
Sealed-for-life, limited maintenance designs available |
Varies |
Varies |
Varies |
|
Key advantage |
Combination of precision cam technology, simple controls, short lead times, U.S.-based support and custom engineering |
Broad fixed and programmable indexing options |
Established mechanical fixed cam-indexing technology |
Specialized roller gear cam technology and high-speed positioning |
Many manufacturers are looking for an indexing solution that can improve speed, performance, or load capacity. Rather than relying solely on online sizing tools, customers can work directly with MID engineers to discuss their application and select a rotary indexer that is properly sized and configured for their specific requirements. Read more about How Motion Index Drives Manufactures Differently.
Several rotary index table manufacturers can deliver zero backlash and high accuracy. The key advantage is how the system performs in production and maintains consistent performance over millions of cycles.
Need Help Choosing the Right Indexer?
If you need help comparing systems for an automation line, Motion Index Drives can:
Contact Us or view our White Paper on Facts to Consider when Choosing a Rotary Index Table.
