TRANSFER MACHINES

Combination of individual machines or

machining heads arranged in the required
sequence, connected by work transfer devices
and integrated with interlocking controls.

Transfer machines permit the maximum

number of operations to be performed on
workpieces at a maximum production rate.

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 FEATURES

Parts are indexed in a straight line or circle

from station to station.
At each station required operations are
performed simultaneously.
Loading and unloading, either manually or
automatically, occurs at each end of the line.
When the component reaches the end of the
line, all necessary operations have been
completed.

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Operations done on Transfer Machines
3

All types of machining operations such as

drilling, boring, reaming, tapping and
milling are economically combined on
transfer machines.
Lathe type operations such as turning and
facing are performed by rotating the work-
pieces on selected work stations.

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Types Of Transfer Machines
4

The transfer machines are classified according to the

arrangement of work stations.
In-line transfer machines

Rotary indexing table transfer machines

Drum type transfer machines

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In-line Transfer Machines
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It consists of a central bed and the machining

heads are arranged on the sides at a convenient
pitch.
the components are transferred along guide
rails on the central bed.
cylinder blocks, gear box castings and axle box
castings are transfer machined by this method.

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 Rotary Indexing Table Transfer Machines

A rotary indexing table is used for transferring

components from fixed stations of machining
heads, which are spaced at equal intervals
around the periphery of the table.
These machines are smaller in size.
It saves floor space and presents more compact
arrangement.
It can also be installed for complete automatic
assembly of a product.

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8

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 Drum Type Transfer Machines

Like rotary table type, this machine also transfers

the components in a circular path to
workstations positioned around at equal
distances.
This machine instead of having a table has got a
drum which rotates about a horizontal axis.
The work fixtures are fixed around the periphery
of the drum.

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 Limitations

10

Lower station remains idle due to limitations of

space.
Work at the lower station is always hanging,
therefore needs firm clamping.
The drum size is limited.

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Constructional Features of
Transfer Machines
12

Central bed
May be straight, circular or U shaped.

Machining head
Usually made as multiple spindle tool heads driven by
self contained motors and reduction gear boxes.

Work loading devices

1. Manual loading
2. Automatic loading

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 Constructional
Features of
Transfer Machines
13

Work transfer mechanisms

Table indexing mechanisms are employed in rotary and

drum type machines.
Eg: Geneva gear mechanism

In in-line machines, endless chain conveyors or

hydraulically operated transfer bars may be employed.

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 Constructional
Features
14
of
Transfer Machines
Work-piece locating and clamping devices
Stationary fixtures
Pallets (travelling fixtures)

Transfer line control systems

It employs electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic inter-
linkage devices.

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 Constructional
Features of
Transfer Machines
15

Coolant supply
Centralized supply
Separate coolant feed mechanism attached with machining
heads

Chip disposal
Mechanical method by means of scraper, brush and screw
conveyor.
Gravity method with chutes and chip collectors.
Removal of chip by liquid or compressed air jet.
By means of electromagnets

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Advantages of Transfer Machines
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Greater accuracy
Reduces production time
Greater output
Reduced component cost
Less floor space is required
Heavy and irregular parts can be machined.

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Disadvantages
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Initial cost is high.

Break-down of even one machine stops the
operation of the entire transfer line.
Control systems are complex.
High skills are required for initial settings.
Lack of flexibility.

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