Positioneering Workbook - Koike

Selecting Headstock/Tailstock Positioners
How to Select a Headstock/Tailstock To Best Meet Your
Needs:
Head and tail units are rated for overhanging loads. Determine
the weight and how far ahead of the table the CG (Centerof-Gravity)
of the work-piece will be located, then select the
proper model from the chart on page 21.
When head and tail units are used together, the load weight
is shared by both units. As explained below, the weight is imposed
on the flexible point of the clamping fixtures. The distance
that the flexible point is ahead of the table determines the overhanging
load on the head and tail units. This load can be compared
to the chart on page 21, using the CG rating that corresponds
to the flexible point’s distance away from the table.
The headstock must also assure adequate rotational torque.
Determine the distance that the load’s CG will be from the rotation
axis, then multiple this distance in inches by the pounds of
load weight to find “LBS- IN” of torque requirement. The chart on
page 21 gives these ratings. For example, a 60,000 lb load with
the CG at 6”off-center will require 360,000 Lb-In of torque. The
Tailstocks with freewheeling tables do not need torque ratings.
Importance of “Universal-Joint” attachment to weldment
to Headstock & Tailstock
A. Rigid Mounting.
To be avoided- When rotating inaccurate work-pieces rigidly
mounted between head and tail units that might be misaligned,
great stresses are created that can tear the work from the table,
or damage the work and positioners. Even if everything holds,
rotation drag is created which could stall the headstock. A flexible
connection between the load and tables to relieve misalignment
is highly recommended.
B. Pilot Mounting.
A stub-shaft attached to each end of the work-piece and then
engaged loosely into hollow table-receptacles will relieve misalignment.
The stub-shafts also take the shear load of the work.
This approach requires that the tail stock be movable on wheels
and track to allow engagement of the stub-shafts during set-up.
To impart rotation, drive dogs must be used at each end.
C. Universal Pin Mounting.
Loose pins through clevis-type connections provide flexibility
and setup without having to move the tailstock. The load weight
on the head and tail units is imposed on the pins, at a distance
ahead of the table. Always keep the flexible point as near to the
table as possible. Pilot mounting (sketch B) is ideal from this
standpoint. Drive dogs for rotation are needed to save the pins
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from heavy torsional loading.
D. Wobble Plate Mounting.
Four round drive dogs extend through holes in each wobble
plate and carry the load, as well as impart rotation. Caps on
end of drive dogs insure wobble plates do not slide off work
piece, part or fixture.