PDA

View Full Version : Indexer Question


rcbrust
09-28-2020, 10:27 AM
The max diameter for the Desktop indexer is spec'd at 3.6". Is there any reason why the indexer could not be lifted by 1/4" so that a 4" diameter piece could be machined?

Randy
coryatjohn
09-28-2020, 05:06 PM
I believe it's spec'd as a measurement between the center and the table. If you want more diameter, you'll have to jack up the indexer and tailstock as you've indicated.

One thing that makes tiny clearances dicey is that you have to perfectly situate a round blank in the indexer. If you already have a lathe, that should be easy.
rcbrust
09-28-2020, 08:16 PM
I believe it's spec'd as a measurement between the center and the table.

I believe they spec diameter, not radius. From the Shopbot website:

34159

Randy
coryatjohn
09-28-2020, 08:30 PM
Yes, the measurement from the center to the table TIMES TWO. I apologize for my mistake.
bobmann
01-03-2024, 06:08 PM
The max diameter for the Desktop indexer is spec'd at 3.6". Is there any reason why the indexer could not be lifted by 1/4" so that a 4" diameter piece could be machined?

Randy

I tend to figure outside the box.
The indexer has a center line of 3" from the base.
I moved the indexer mounting rail to the table the Max sits on, and hang the workpiece over the edge of that "T" slot plate. 10" diameter is done easily, and by moving the base to allow more overhang can gain another 2" diameter.
The limiting factor is now the Z travel limitation.
To expedite the change over, I remove the aluminum table and spoil board as one piece. The track is screwed to the table. To zero the Y I do a machine zero, then I have documented the distance to the centerline of the indexer, move to that location and re-zero.
To zero the Z, I have a spot on the top of the head that I zero, then move to a safe location, lower the Z to my documented location and re-zero.
To keep everything in line, I made pieces that are fixed to the bottom of the head and tail stock so I just drop them in place and they are centered.
Change over to flat cutting to the rotary is maybe 15 minutes total.
35404
35405

This carve is less than 10".
35403
This one was a little over 10" diameter. I did turn the ID of this bowl on a lathe as it is 4" deep.
35406