MINUTEMAN 320
4
REV 13.1:2020
2.1 Description of the Machine
The Minuteman is a PLC controlled automatic bar feeder designed for both Swiss style and
fixed headstock lathes. The bar feeder is constructed to handle a wide variety of material
profiles from round to hex and square stocks and can be adapted to feed materials with a more
unique shape.
The bar feeder uses hydrodynamic design to dampen vibrations caused by bar stock rotation.
The bar stock spins within a polyurethane channel which is flooded with a high viscosity
circulating oil. This creates turbulence within the channel that serves to steady the material and
control vibration. The end of the bar stock is supported by a bearing unit on the end of the bar
pusher and the work holding system of the lathe.
An anti-vibration device is located at the front of the bar feeder. Polyurethane bearing supported
wheels surround the bar, leaving a few millimeters clearance between the bar and the wheels.
For Swiss style sliding headstock lathes a moveable anti-vibration device is mounted on the
rear of the lathe headstock to provide even more support and vibration dampening.