MINUTEMAN 320
83
REV 13.1:2020
5.6 Synchronization System
Caution Warning operation of the synchronization will move at
random times during the automatic operation. Access covers to the synch
device should always be in place during operation.
Caution belt adjustment should only be performed when bar feeder
electrical power has been removed. Follow local, state and federal lock out
tag out standards.
Description: The synchronization belt becomes the physical link between the lathe headstock
and bar pusher. The lathe collet closure on the bar maintains the connection point of the
material. The end of the bar material must be supported by the bar feeder collet which is
attached to the end of the bar pusher. To maintain this physical connection point the bar pusher
must move at the same rate and distance as the material. If this synchronization is not
maintained bar and bar pusher separation will occur leading to issues such as insufficient
material feed out and vibrations.
Operation: For installations on sliding headstock lathes a synchronization device may be used.
A rod is linked to the moveable anti-vibration device mounted to the lathe spindle. This rod
passes through the front plate of the bar feeder. Inside the bar feeder an electromagnetic clutch
assembly is attached to the synchronization belt pulley. The timing belt runs between two
pulleys, one of which is attached to the same shaft as the front pulley of the bar pusher drive
belt. When the lathe collet is closed the PLC turns on 24volts to energize the coil of the synch
clutch. The clutch locks the synch pulley to the adjoined shaft which the drive belt pulley is
locked. In this condition, every move made by the headstock Z axis is transferred through the
synchronization device to the bar pusher to keep the bar pusher in sync with the lathe
headstock.
Machines equipped with the axial shift feature will have 2 additional electrical switches to limit
the total synchronization stroke. When the switch contacts are closed the bar feeder will be in
emergency stop. The final positioning of the switches is performed during the installation
process of the bar feeder. Once set the switch locations should not be moved.