Cam Indexing Drive

About the Cam Indexing Drive

A cam indexing drive converts continuous input rotation into precise intermittent output with a defined dwell. A helical rib on a barrel cam engages follower rollers on the output turret, so the motion profile is machined into the cam and the dwell is a mechanical lock rather than a held servo position.

Key Features

Motion profile machined into the cam — inherently smooth acceleration and deceleration
Dwell is mechanically locked, so process force cannot push the table off station
Repeatability unaffected by cycle rate, unlike servo indexing at speed
Available in 4, 6, 8 and 12 station configurations
Flange, table and sandwich mounting arrangements

Ideal For / Applications

Rotary indexing tables in assembly automation
Multi-station riveting, welding and screwing cells
Packaging machinery
Special purpose machines with a fixed station count
High cycle rate assembly where servo indexing drifts

Frequently Asked Questions

Cam indexer or servo indexing?

Choose a cam indexer when the station count is fixed, the cycle rate is high, and the process pushes on the table — the dwell is positively locked. Choose servo when station positions must change between products.

How do I choose the station count?

Count the operations in your sequence, then add load, unload and any inspection or reject station. Take the next standard count at or above that total — a spare station is cheap at design stage and expensive to retrofit.

What determines the indexer size?

The inertia of everything the table carries — dial plate, fixtures and components — plus index time and the overhung and axial loads from the process stations. Under-sizing shows up as follower wear and position drift long before outright failure.